Before the most current drought, which started in 2007 and stretched through 2009, a drought in 2000/2001 taught the SFWMD and residents a great deal about preparing for, and coping with widespread water shortages.
The SFWMD declares a drought only when local or regional water supplies are falling too quickly. To avoid this, the agency constantly monitors ground water levels. In the dry season, these can fall quickly because they are fed by rainfall. When rain is scarce, demand is highest.
That's why SFWMD has a long history of working with local governments to develop year-round conservation ordinances. Throughout the state, counties and cities have adopted bans on day time watering (no watering between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. or between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.), as well as building codes and utility rate structures which reward conservation. SFWMD has a number of other cooperative programs with local governments, business and community groups to encourage conservation and help to develop alternative sources of water.
Practicing conservation as a "way of life" can help to avoid, or at least lessen the likelihood of future water shortages, and inconvenient restrictions. Many residents have already adopted this ethic of conservation, and with their partnership, together we are saving billions of gallons of water!
FAQs - Water Shortage
Water Shortage History
Northern Everglades
