The South Florida Water Management District, along with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, continues to be committed to improving South Florida's waterways and protecting our natural resources.
Florida will continue to expedite long-term efforts that improve water quality, and we are also taking action now to tackle toxic algal blooms that impact people and the environment.
Under the leadership of Governor Ron DeSantis, the South Florida Water Management District continues to expedite large reservoirs, treatment wetlands and other natural system enhancements to improve water quality and management, in addition to other programs. The District also dramatically expanded our water quality monitoring network to better identify where there are problems and is working with state officials and communities to implement additional solutions.
Members of the public can also help improve our water quality:
- Fertilize responsibly. The use of excess fertilizer results in pollutants contaminating the waterways in stormwater runoff when it rains.
- Service septic tanks. If your home has a septic tank, have it serviced and inspected regularly. The best option is to have your home hooked up to a public sewer system.
- Pick up after your pets. Pet waste can add nutrient pollution to our waterways.
- Prevent soil erosion. Soil erosion allows sediments to drain into nearby surface waters. Controlling erosion and sediments helps to prevent surface water quality problems and helps retain the property's topsoil.
- Make sure nearby storm drains are free of debris. Debris and trash in stormwater drains can interfere with flood prevention as well as decrease water quality.
Improving water quality and addressing harmful algal blooms remains a top priority. By addressing harmful algal blooms now, we better position our natural systems to recover faster from the impacts of toxic algae. Visit ProtectingFloridaTogether.gov to find the latest water quality information or report an algal bloom.