Southwest Florida Water Management District

It's the largest preserved area in the fastest growing parts of the state. But despite being sandwiched between two large cities, few people have heard of it. Come along on a three-day trek to learn more.

The Southwest Florida Water Management District sent a letter to Fort Meade officials saying they can’t use the city’s existing water infrastructure to supply the center under new rules approved in December.

The restrictions apply to all residents, even those with private wells. Starting April 17, citations can be issued without warning. A Phase Three Extreme Water Shortage has been issued.

The region hasn't experienced such dry conditions for decades. Restrictions are in place to further limit outdoor watering.

SWFWMD is expected to go into Phase 2 restrictions, reducing lawn watering to once a week for properties of less than 1 acre.

A phase one water shortage is still in effect in areas served by the Southwest Florida Water Management District.

The river reached minimum flow standards a couple of years ago and has continued since with help from a dam and other contributing water bodies.

Minor repairs to the Tampa Bypass Canal should be completed in time for hurricane season, which begins June 1.

Residents in those counties will be able to water twice a week. Some cities and counties are keeping once-a-week watering restrictions by local ordinance.

The Southwest Florida Water Management District voted to extend the restrictions until Dec. 31 for Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas counties.

Expanded development and lack of prescribed burns have been hurting scrub jay habitats throughout Florida.

Restrictions for Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas counties have been extended until Sept. 1.