St. Johns River, Suwanee River Water Management Districts Approve Regional Project to Protect Springs and Replenish Floridan Aquifer – SJRWMD

St. Johns River, Suwanee River Water Management Districts Approve Regional Project to Protect Springs and Replenish Floridan Aquifer

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The St. Johns River and Suwannee River water management districts on Wednesday approved Water First North Florida, a regional initiative designed to restore flows to the region’s iconic springs and rivers and ensure a sustainable water supply for generations to come. 

Once implemented, the project is expected to return more than 40 million gallons of water per day to the Floridan aquifer system. By recharging the region’s primary water source, Water First North Florida will help restore spring and river flows while supporting homes, farms and businesses throughout North Florida. 

The project will take high-quality reclaimed water, further purify it through a natural wetland filtration system and recharge it into the aquifer. It was identified after evaluating more than 100 alternative project concepts as the most cost-effective and environmentally beneficial solution to meet the region’s growing water needs. 

“The Lower Santa Fe and Ichetucknee Rivers, along with their iconic springs, are vital to Florida’s natural heritage, economy and way of life,” said Rob Bradley, chair of the St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board. “Implementing this recovery strategy, including the Water First North Florida project, is not just an environmental necessity—it’s an investment in Florida’s future. By working together, we can ensure healthy ecosystems, sustainable communities and our water supply.

“Water First North Florida represents a forward-thinking commitment to our region’s future,” said Virginia Johns, chair of the Suwannee River Water Management District Governing Board. “By investing in sustainable water resource development today, we’re ensuring that our springs communities, residents, farms and businesses have the reliable water supply they need to thrive tomorrow. This project is about water security, economic opportunity and preserving the natural systems that make North Florida such a special place to live and work.” 

The project was approved by both districts to support the recovery of the Lower Santa Fe and Ichetucknee rivers and their priority springs. Water First North Florida was developed through a collaborative effort between the St. Johns River Water Management District, the Suwannee River Water Management District, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and local utilities. 

Water First North Florida is designed to deliver multiple long-term benefits, including: 

  • Restoring flows and protecting the health of rivers and springs. 
  • Recharging the aquifer to ensure a sustainable water supply for residents and visitors. 
  • Supporting agriculture, small businesses, tourism and future growth. 
  • Restoring wetlands that support wildlife habitat and enhance recreation. 
  • Providing the greatest environmental return at the lowest cost compared with other alternatives. 

To learn more, visit https://waterfirstnorthfl.com.

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