Project to Protect Springs, Aquifer Approved
Once implemented, the project is expected to return more than 40 million gallons of water per day to the Floridan aquifer system.
PALATKA, Fla. ─ 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.”
Source: Suwannee River Water Management District
© 2025 Florida Realtors®