Know What Water Shortage Phase You’re In 🚨

A Phase III Extreme Water Shortage has been declared across portions of the St. Johns River Water Management District due to ongoing drought conditions. Below-average rainfall, declining groundwater levels, and reduced river flows continue to place stress on our water resources.

💧 Water shortage declarations are temporary measures used to help protect water supplies during extended dry periods. Conditions are monitored regularly, and additional restrictions may be implemented if drought conditions worsen.

Here’s a breakdown of Extreme Phase III:

🟡 Severe
• Long-term rainfall shortages intensify
• Rivers, lakes, and aquifers experience major stress
• Mandatory restrictions are implemented to help protect water supplies

📍 Restrictions may vary depending on where you live and which water management district or local government oversees your area.

💦 Every drop counts. Conserving water now helps protect Florida’s springs, rivers, lakes and groundwater supplies for communities, agriculture and the environment.

➡️ Check the map below to see what phase your area is currently in and learn more about local restrictions.
🔗 For more information: www.sjrwmd.com/wateringrestrictions/

#WaterConservation #Drought #FloridaWater #SJRWMD #SaveWater #WaterRestrictions ... See MoreSee Less

🐍 Meet the Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake — the largest venomous snake in North America and an important part of Florida’s natural ecosystems.

Known for the diamond-shaped pattern along its back and signature rattle, this species uses venom to subdue prey and defend itself when threatened. They’d rather avoid people than confront them, and the rattle is often a warning to keep your distance.

Eastern Diamondbacks help control rodent populations and play an important role in keeping habitats balanced.

The St. Johns River Water Management District helps protect the diverse natural lands where native wildlife like the Eastern Diamondback rattlesnake can thrive. 🌿

If you spot one on District lands:
✔️ Give it space
✔️ Do not disturb it
✔️ Appreciate it from a safe distance

#SJRWMD #FloridaWildlife #Rattlesnake ... See MoreSee Less

In honor of Memorial Day, all St. Johns River Water Management District offices will be closed on Monday, May 25.

🏢 Our offices will reopen on Tuesday, May 26.

Florida State Parks will offer free day-use admission from May 23–25, 2026, ahead of America’s 250th anniversary🙌

Looking for other FREE ideas on SJRWMD lands? Be sure to check out these favorites: 👇

1️⃣ Lake Apopka North Shore
• 🔴 Red Trail — a hidden-gem 2-mile loop through a lush oak forest
• 🏞️ Clay Island Loop — features four observation towers with sweeping views of Lake Apopka

2️⃣ Fort Drum Marsh Conservation Area
• Start at Horseshoe Lake (free day-use permit required)
• A short hike leads to a wooden boardwalk winding through a blackwater swamp of cypress, cedar and sabal palms

3️⃣ Longleaf Flatwoods Reserve
• Multiple trails through mesic flatwoods and sandhill uplands
• Seasonal wildflowers add color to your hike

4️⃣ Black Creek Ravines Conservation Area
• ⚪ White Trail overlooks rare north Florida ravines
• 🔴 Red Trail ends at a 30-foot bluff above Black Creek with breathtaking views

✨ Lace up your boots and explore the natural side of Florida this weekend!

🔗 Find a property near you on our website.
bit.ly/DistrictLandsMap

💧 Florida water — it’s worth saving.

❤️🤍💙 As we enjoy the holiday weekend, we remember and honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country.

#MemorialDay #SJRWMD ... See MoreSee Less