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Prescribed burn scheduled for Garcon Point Water Management Area

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MEDIA ADVISORY: March 24, 2014

CONTACT: Tyler MacMillan, (850) is 850-510-2020 or NWFWMD Public Information Office (850) 539-5999

Prescribed Burn Scheduled for Garcon Point Water Management Area

MILTON – The Northwest Florida Water Management District will conduct a large prescribed burn on March 25, 2014, weather permitting. The burn will consist of 2,045 acres within the District’s Garcon Point Water Management Area. It will take place near Garcon Point Bridge in Santa Rosa County, which is about four miles south of Interstate 10 on the southeast side of Garcon Point Road.

“Prescribed burns are an important part of the District’s routine land management operations that help us restore natural communities and better protect our area’s water and natural resources,” said Tyler Macmillan, District Bureau Chief of Land Management Operations. “Prescribed burns are a safe, efficient and effective way to apply a natural process, ensure ecosystem health, and reduce wildfire risk.”

Although every effort will be made to ensure that smoke will not affect homes or highways, drivers should exercise caution in case smoke does lead to reduced visibility on the area’s roadways.

The burn will be conducted by the District’s certified prescribed burn managers, with assistance from the Gulf Coastal Plain Ecosystem Partnership. The final decision to burn is made daily, after reviewing the Predicted Fire Weather forecast for that particular day and after obtaining a burn authorization from the Florida Forest Service.

The Gulf Coastal Plain Ecosystem Partnership (GCPEP) is a public/private voluntary landowner partnership that collectively manages more than 1 million acres in northwest Florida and south Alabama. The 11 partners include the Department of Defense (Naval Air Station and Eglin Air Force Base), the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, the Florida Forestry Service, the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission, the Longleaf Alliance, the National Park Service, the Northwest Florida Water Management District, National Forests in Alabama, the Nature Conservancy, Nokuse Plantation and Westervelt Ecological Services.

The Garcon Point Water Management Area consists of 3,245 acres on the Garcon Point peninsula between Escambia and Blackwater bays. By preserving the estuarine tidal marsh, wet prairie and wet flatwood habitats of this area, the District is also protecting at least 13 threatened and endangered plant and animal species.

NWFWMD Governing Board Appoints New Executive Director

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 11, 2014
CONTACT: NWFWMD Public Information Office (850) 539-2663 or Lauren.Engel@yopmail.com

NWFWMD Governing Board Appoints New Executive Director

HAVANA – The Northwest Florida Water Management District Governing Board today appointed Brett Cyphers as Executive Director. Cyphers has served as the Assistant Executive Director since June 2012, and will replace Jon Steverson, who was appointed as Secretary of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.

“Over the past two and a half years, the District has taken significant steps forward in the protection of the water and natural resources of Northwest Florida,” said Governing Board Chairman George Roberts. “Brett has played an integral role in helping advance the mission of the District and the priorities of the Governing Board, and we’re excited to work with him as Executive Director as we continue this progress.”

As Assistant Executive Director, Cyphers spearheaded budget and operational reform efforts at the District, resulting in increased transparency and accountability and the development of a fiscal approach that dedicates more taxpayer funds to projects with the most direct benefit to the natural resources and communities of Northwest Florida.

Since arriving at the District in 2012, Cyphers has worked to implement projects and programs vital to the restoration and protection of priority waterbodies, such as the Apalachicola River and St. Andrew Bay watersheds, as well as the region’s many springs, including Wakulla and Jackson Blue springs. During that time, the District has also expanded its efforts to support local governments and utilities as they work to ensure a clean and reliable water supply to communities through a Water Supply Development Grant Program that has awarded nearly $18 million in grant funding over the last two years.

Prior to Cyphers’ appointment at the District, he oversaw water management district budget development at the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. He has also served Floridians by working on water and environmental policy issues at the Executive Office of the Governor, Florida Senate and House of Representatives, and the Southwest Florida Water Management District.

Cyphers is a veteran of the United States Army and Florida National Guard and holds a degree from Florida State University. He lives in Tallahassee with his wife and three daughters.

NWFWMD Awards Nearly $8 Million in Water Supply Funding

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 13, 2014
CONTACT: NWFWMD Public Information Office (850) 539-2663 or Lauren.Engel@yopmail.com 

NWFWMD Awards Nearly $8 Million in Water Supply Funding

HAVANA – The Northwest Florida Water Management District Governing Board today approved nearly $8 million in grant funding to be used for 26 new water supply development projects across Northwest Florida.

This funding was awarded as part of the second cycle of a competitive grant program to help local governments and non-profit utilities address local water supply challenges and meet regional water supply protection and management needs. During the first grant cycle, which was approved at the February 2014 Governing Board meeting, the District awarded nearly $10 million to fund 24 priority water supply projects.

“An important part of the District’s mission is ensuring a safe and reliable supply of water for the people of this region,” said Governing Board Chairman George Roberts. “This grant program allows the District to play an active part in contributing to the health and well-being of our communities by addressing regional water resource and supply development needs.”

Projects eligible for grant funding include traditional water supply development projects, alternative water supply projects, such as reuse projects and conservation projects that result in quantifiable groundwater water savings.

“The projects funded through the Northwest Florida Water Management District’s grant program are vital to ensuring a clean and reliable supply of water for the people, businesses and environment of this region,” said Florida Senate President Don Gaetz. “The District’s support of these projects will encourage economic development and bring jobs to our area.”

After evaluating the 87 project applications that were submitted, the District identified 26 new projects it was able to fund this grant cycle. The $8 million also includes supplemental funding for two previously approved projects from the first grant cycle.

“These water projects will be a tremendous boost to our communities throughout North Florida,” said Senator Bill Montford.  “The much needed funds will help address serious issues that, when completed, will provide better and safer service.”

The District will continue to work with grant recipients to finalize projects details and execute funding agreements in the coming weeks and months.

“For the second year, the District is partnering with local governments and utilities to address water supply and public safety needs that are critical to the communities of Northwest Florida and House District 7,” said Representative Halsey Beshears. “By working with these communities to meet their long-term water supply needs, the District is protecting the health of our environment while also helping our area’s economy grow.”

Many of the funded projects include replacements, repairs and upgrades to water distribution systems, which will help improve reliability and drinking water quality, as well protect the region’s water supply by reducing water loss. Several projects will also support the development and growth of reclaimed water use, which helps extend the water resources available for beneficial purposes while also helping to protect and restore watersheds by reducing wastewater discharges.

The full list of projects that were awarded funding include (by county):

Parker Water System Improvements (Bay County)
The District will provide $278,500 to the City of Parker to replace the City’s 30 non-functioning gate valves.  This will reduce water loss—protecting the area’s water supply—and improve system reliability and protect public health and safety by allowing for isolation of water line breaks and contamination events.

Springfield Water System Improvements (Bay County)
The District will provide $499,192 to the City of Springfield to install approximately 6,300 linear feet of 6 to 8-inch water line.  By replacing aging and deteriorating water lines, the project will improve system reliability and reduce water losses (which are currently estimated at approximately 25 percent).

Calhoun Catalyst Site/ Industrial Park Water Improvements (Calhoun County)
The District will provide $182,232 to Calhoun County to install 1,600 linear feet of new 8-inch PVC water line and complete upgrades and repairs to an existing elevated storage tank.  These upgrades will ensure a reliable water supply and encourage economic development by extending and improving water system access to the Calhoun County Catalyst Site and the Tri-County Agricultural Park.

Century Water System Leak Survey (Escambia County)
The District will provide $44,500 to the Town of Century to conduct a water leak survey of the town’s entire distribution system, which includes 60 miles of water main, to identify and prioritize leak repair efforts to reduce water loss from approximately 22 percent to a target of 10 percent—helping to protect the area’s water supply.

Pensacola Beach Reclaimed Water System Expansion – Phase 2 (Escambia County)
The District will provide $425,000 to the Emerald Coast Utilities Authority to construct a ground storage tank, pump station, and associated piping, valves, and other system components to expand the Pensacola Beach reclaimed water system. Completion of the project will reduce reliance on potable groundwater for landscape irrigation and reduce wastewater discharges to the Santa Rosa Sound. It is expected that beneficial reuse will increase from approximately 60,000 to more than 285,000 gallons per day, with additional reuse supported in the future.

Eastpoint Water System Improvements (Franklin County)
The District will provide $346,669 to the Eastpoint Water and Sewer District to bring an inland well online by installing a pump, generator, and control building. The project also includes developing a transmission line to an existing treatment and storage system and abandoning two coastal wells. These improvements will ensure a more reliable supply of water and build upon efforts to limit the potential for saltwater intrusion.

Greensboro Asbestos Cement Pipe Replacement (Gadsden County)
The District will provide $222,044 to the Town of Greensboro to replace 4,463 linear feet of aging 6-inch asbestos concrete pipe with PVC water line to reduce breaks and water loss, improve system reliability, and reduce health and safety risks posed by the older pipes.

Rosedale Water Association Transmission Line Replacement (Gadsden County)
The District will provide $272,978 to the Rosedale Water Association to replace 6,300 linear feet of aging 8-inch water transmission line.  Completion of the project is expected to result in reduced water losses and improved reliability and service.  Current water losses have been estimated as being as high as 43 percent.

Port St. Joe Lime Feed System and Water Main Replacement (Gulf County)
The District will provide $358,920 to the City of Port St. Joe to install a lime addition system to improve drinking water quality and replace 3,900 linear feet of aging cast iron pipe with PVC pipe.  The completion of this project will help improve water quality and reliability by addressing water chemistry issues associated with the City’s transition from ground to surface water.

Chipola River Pump #2 Rehabilitation (Gulf County)
The District is awarding $30,870 in additional funding to the City of Port St. Joe. Combined with funding awarded last year, the District will provide a total of $225,870 in grant funding to rehabilitate a supply pump and add a new diesel electric generator. The project will help improve public health and safety by providing a more reliable water supply system.

Bonifay Wastewater Treatment Facility/Reclaimed Water Reuse Facility (Holmes County)
The District will provide $350,000 to the City of Bonifay to conduct planning and geotechnical evaluation for a reclaimed water system, which, when completed, will ensure a more reliable supply of water and improve water quality by ultimately helping to reduce wastewater discharges to Holmes Creek and the Choctawhatchee River watershed.

Esto Water Main Replacement Project, Phase 2 (Holmes County)
The District will provide $553,853 to the Town of Esto to replace approximately 10,450 linear feet of aging water pipe, reducing water loss and improving reliability within the system.  This project will build upon 4,850 linear feet of pipeline currently being replaced, which the District funded last year with nearly $150,000 in additional grant funding.

Westville Water Main Replacement (Holmes County)
The District will provide $491,100 to the Town of Westville to replace approximately 19,310 linear feet of aging 4 to 6-inch water line, which will reduce water loss, provide fire protection, and improve water quality.

Campbellton Water Improvements Project (Jackson County)
The District will provide $322,062 to the Town of Campbellton to replace and upgrade approximately 2,700 linear feet of aging waterline, which will help reduce water losses and improve system reliability.

Cottondale Water Improvements Project (Jackson County)
The District will provide $284,580 to the City of Cottondale to replace and upgrade 500 linear feet of aging cast iron pipe and 2,000 linear feet of asbestos concrete pipe with PVC water line. This will improve system reliability, reduce health risks caused by the older pipes, and reduce water loss—helping to preserve the area’s water supply.

Graceville Water System Improvements (Jackson County)
The District will provide $426,729 to the City of Graceville to replace approximately 17,500 linear feet of aging 4-inch water line with 8-inch PVC line and associated components. The project also includes new meters and funding for track hoe and ground-penetrating radar for construction.  The project will reduce water loss and increase fire protection for area residents.

Grand Ridge Water Extension to I-10 Interchange (Jackson County)
The District will award an additional $25,744 to the Town of Grand Ridge to construct approximately 11,530 linear feet of water main. This project will extend the water system to the I-10 interchange, ensuring a reliable water supply and encouraging economic development.  Combined with funding awarded last year, the District is providing a total of $347,083 for the project.

Sneads Water Improvement Projects (Jackson County)
The District will provide $402,354 to the Town of Sneads to replace 4,500 linear feet of older, undersized water line with 10-inch line and associated components to reduce water loss and provide adequate fire flow.

Hayfield Spur Road Extension Loop (Jefferson County)
The District will provide $164,203 to Jefferson Communities Water System, Inc. to construct approximately 8,470 linear feet of 8-inch PVC water line and four fire hydrants to provide looping, as well as provide potential connections for future customers. This project will improve fire protection and system reliability.

Hosford Water System (Liberty County)
The District will provide $263,000 to Liberty County to initiate testing of the existing Hosford well, siting and development of a test well, aquifer performance testing and analysis, and identification and evaluation of a new production well site. This project will help Liberty County address persistent water quality, reliability, and fire protection needs.

Holt-Baker Interconnection Project (Okaloosa County)
The District will provide $8,700 to Holt Water Works, Inc. to construct a 1,100 linear foot, 6-inch interconnection with Baker Water System, Inc. The completed project will enhance reliability to both communities by ensuring that an emergency backup water supply and sufficient fire protection are available in the event that emergency conditions impact either system.

Reclaimed Water System Improvements (Okaloosa County)
The District will provide $482,000 to the City of Fort Walton Beach to construct a booster pump station, storage tank, and other system components to provide adequate storage and pressure to provide reclaimed water to an existing cemetery and planned athletic complex.  The project will offset and reduce current and future potable water and groundwater use for landscape irrigation, helping to protect the area’s water supply.
West Destin Water Supply Analysis (Okaloosa County)
The District will provide $40,000 to Destin Water Users, Inc. to develop a system model to analyze water system improvements throughout the western and northern service area and evaluate potential alternatives to help increase the flow of inland groundwater to this area and raise water pressure.  This project addresses one of the District’s priorities under the area’s Regional Water Supply Plan.

Fairpoint Region Utility System Well and Transmission Line (Santa Rosa County)
The District will provide $123,947 to the Fairpoint Regional Utility System to construct a new potable water well, treatment facility, and approximately 13,800 linear feet of 12-inch water transmission line.  This project will help ensure a more reliable supply of water and address one of the District’s priorities under the area’s Regional Water Supply Plan.

Holley-Navarre Reuse Line Replacement (Santa Rosa County)
The District will provide $295,000 to Holley-Navarre Water System, Inc. to replace 13,000 linear feet of water line with larger, 12-inch pipe, serving the Hidden Creek Golf Course and surrounding neighborhood. The resulting increase in capacity will ensure a more reliable supply for existing customers and allow the utility to implement a residential reuse program.  The water system has the capacity to reuse 3 million gallons of water per day.

Wakulla Regional Water system Improvements (Wakulla County)
The District will provide $350,000 to Talquin Water and Wastewater, Inc. to install new water treatment systems and storage improvements to effectively address elevated metals, hydrogen sulfide, and disinfection byproducts within the drinking water system. This project will help ensure a clean and reliable supply of drinking water.

U.S. Hwy 98 Water Line Extension Phase 4 (Walton County)
The District will provide $487,620 to the Florida Community Services Corporation (Regional Utilities) to complete Phase 4 of a major initiative to upgrade existing potable water transmission lines along the U.S. Highway 98 corridor. This project will help to ensure a more reliable supply of water by providing for transmission of inland groundwater within coastal Walton County and addresses one of the District’s priorities under the area’s Regional Water Supply Plan.

Wausau Booster Pump Installation (Washington County)
The District will provide $250,800 to the Town of Wausau to install booster pumps to improve potable water service and fire protection to areas with existing distribution system.  Water service will be provided to area residents as well as county Emergency Operation Center and Public Works facilities.  Completion of the project will improve system reliability and water quality and is expected to facilitate the elimination of a number of private wells.

NWFWMD Announces New Cycle of Agricultural Cost-Share Funding to Protect Jackson Blue Springs

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 13, 2014
CONTACT: NWFWMD Public Information Office (850) 539-2663 or Lauren.Engel@yopmail.com

NWFWMD Announces New Cycle of Agricultural Cost-Share Funding to Protect Jackson Blue Springs

MARIANNA – The Northwest Florida Water Management District has launched the second cycle of a cost-share program designed to help agricultural producers improve water quality and reduce water use demands in and around Jackson Blue Spring.

The District’s Fiscal Year (FY) 2014-2015 budget includes $487,500 to fund eligible agricultural best management practices (BMPs) as part of the Jackson Blue Spring Agricultural Best Management Practice Program. This initiative builds on the success of the FY 2013-2014 cycle, which awarded more than $566,000 to 20 producers in Jackson County.

Both cycles of the cost-share program were funded as part of the State of Florida’s more than $100 million investment in springs projects over the past two years.

“The District is thankful to Governor Scott, the Florida Legislature, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and our local partners for helping us continue this successful program,” said Executive Director Jon Steverson. “These projects will play a vital role in the collaborative effort to protect the health of this first-magnitude spring system.”

This grant program will provide cost-share funding to agricultural producers for irrigation system improvements and equipment and tools to reduce fertilizer and pesticide use and improve water use efficiency—protecting both water quantity and quality.

“Public-private partnerships are absolutely essential for the protection of our springs,” said DEP Deputy Secretary of Water Policy and Ecosystem Restoration Drew Bartlett. “To protect spring water quality and quantity, we must deploy the most sophisticated efficiency tools in all agriculture practices in spring recharge areas.  This investment represents a significant step toward that goal.”

Under the BMP program, the NWFWMD will fund 75 percent of qualifying BMPs (up to a maximum of $56,250 for each producer), with the producers funding the remaining 25 percent.

Projects funded by the first cycle of the program have begun to be implemented, and include  subsurface drip irrigation, variable rate fertilizer applicators, fertigation equipment, irrigation system retrofits, and remote and zone control for irrigation systems.

The District is currently accepting applications from agricultural producers within the Jackson Blue Spring and Merritt’s Mill Pond groundwater contribution area for the second cycle of cost-share projects.

To be eligible, producers must be:
• Operating within the Jackson Blue Spring and Merritt’s Mill Pond Groundwater Contribution Area;
• Enrolled in the appropriate Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) Best Management Practice program; and
• In regulatory compliance with the District.

A full list of funded measures and an application form can be found on the District’s website at nwfwp.sgssys.info. Producers can contact Angela Chelette (850-539-2650) with any questions about the funding program.

Producers who are interested in obtaining funding can expedite their application by getting enrolled or updating their enrollment in the FDACS BMP program as soon as possible by contacting Diana Thurman, FDACS Field Representative at (850-875-7160) or visiting the FDACS at www.freshfromflorida.com.

The District recommends that producers who want to upgrade irrigation equipment contact Mark Miles of the Northwest Florida Mobile Irrigation Lab (MIL) at (850-482-0388) to schedule a system evaluation. Having these two items complete will allow an application to move forward more quickly.

NWFWMD Continues Data Collection Vital to Water Resource Protection

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 7, 2014
CONTACT: NWFWMD Public Information Office (850) 539-2663 or Lauren.Engel@yopmail.com

NWFWMD Continues Data Collection Vital to Water Resource Protection

TALLAHASSEE – The Northwest Florida Water Management District, in partnership with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s (DEP) Florida Geological Survey (FGS), recently began drilling a series of new groundwater monitoring wells, one of which is located along the Crump Road entrance to the Miccosukee Greenway. The wells will be used to collect data crucial to the development of minimum flows and levels (MFLs) for three priority waterbodies, including Wakulla Springs.

“Establishing an effective minimum flows and levels program is an important part of the District’s overall effort to ensure the long-term protection and sustainability of our area’s water resources,” said Executive Director Jon Steverson. “The District remains committed to a meaningful MFL program, based on the best science and data available.”

Florida’s water management districts are required by Florida law to set MFLs, which establish water flows, levels, and limits necessary to prevent significant harm to the water resources or ecology of an area from water withdrawals. The District is currently working on MFL development for six priority waterbodies, including St. Marks River Rise and Wakulla Springs (both first magnitude springs) and Sally Ward Spring (a second magnitude spring).

“The importance of setting and maintaining MFLs cannot be understated,” DEP Deputy Secretary of Water Policy and Ecosystem Restoration Drew Bartlett said. “The construction of these wells is imperative for monitoring water resources in northwest Florida. I applaud the District for making these necessary and unprecedented investments.”

Establishing effective MFLs requires sound science based on the best information available, including hydrologic, meteorologic and ecologic data.

The District is working to expand its monitoring network to collect additional ground and surface water data to help evaluate St. Marks River Rise, Wakulla and Sally Ward springs. This includes drilling 14 new groundwater monitoring wells and establishing 9 new surface water monitoring stations, as well as the continued evaluation and expansion of the District’s current monitoring network.

Seven of these wells are being drilled by the FGS, which will provide the District with more detailed geologic data at a reduced cost. The FGS will collect core samples at these sites, which will provide valuable geologic information to the District and help support the development of groundwater flow models.

The FGS is also able to use the geologic data collected during drilling to support its initiatives related to potentiometric surface mapping and refined hydrogeological characterization of the region.

Ultimately, the District’s well placement and data collection efforts will provide significant support to an ambitious, yet realistic schedule for MFL completion. The District’s Fiscal Year 2014-2015 budget, which began October 1, includes $2.4 million for the development of MFLs.

NWFWMD Budget Continues Focus on Water Resource Protection

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 25, 2014
CONTACT: NWFWMD Public Information Office (850) 539-2663 or Lauren.Engel@yopmail.com

NWFWMD Budget Continues Focus on Water Resource Protection

PANAMA CITY – The Northwest Florida Water Management District Governing Board last night adopted a $52.5 million budget for the 2014-2015 Fiscal Year, which begins October 1.

The District’s adopted budget reduces the millage rate for taxpayers while maintaining a focus on springs protection; the development of minimum flows and levels for the region’s vital springs and aquifers; water supply grant assistance to local communities; and protection of the Apalachicola River and Bay and St. Andrew Bay watersheds.

The Governing Board adopted a roll-back millage rate of .039, which is less than the 0.04 assessed in FY 2013-2014 and 22 percent below the constitutional and statutory cap of 0.05.

The District’s budget is comprised of a combination of ad valorem revenue, state and federal funding, and other revenues, including timber sales. The District also continues to direct significant levels of state revenue appropriated during prior fiscal years to fund key water resource protection projects.

“This budget reflects our continued commitment to undertaking projects that will greatly benefit the natural resources and communities of Northwest Florida,” said Governing Board Chairman George Roberts.

The District’s budget is built on a foundation of projects that are directly in line with its statutory mission of water supply, water quality, natural system and flood protection, including:

  • $8.2 million for springs restoration and protection. This includes more than $6.8 million that will be invested in Northwest Florida to improve springs ecosystems. This funding is part of the $69 million dedicated for springs protection statewide that was approved by Governor Scott and the Florida Legislature in 2014.
  •  $2.4 million for the development of minimum flows and levels (MFLs). This funding will be used to help the District accomplish its ambitious schedule to develop MFLs—a major component of its overall effort to ensure the long-term protection and sustainability of Northwest Florida’s water resources. The District continues to move forward with the intensive hydrologic, ecologic and water quality data collection vital to a successful MFL program.
  • $15 million for water supply development assistance to local governments and non-profit utilities.  This includes $8 million for a new cycle of competitive grant funding designed to help communities in Northwest Florida meet local water supply challenges, building on nearly $15.5 million in water supply grants awarded across 14 counties during the 2013-2014 Fiscal Year.
  • $3.8 million for the protection and restoration of the Apalachicola River and Bay watershed. The District will continue to partner with state and local agencies to improve the health of this environmentally and economically crucial natural system. This includes funding a series of stormwater retrofit projects in cooperation with the cities of Apalachicola and Carrabelle to improve water quality in Apalachicola Bay and provide needed flood relief for residents.
  • $3.6 million for the restoration and protection of the St. Andrew Bay watershed. This includes grant funding assistance to local governments for water quality improvement activities, including four stormwater retrofit projects that will treat runoff generated from more than 500 acres of drainage area.

The Northwest Florida Water Management District strives to protect and manage the region’s water resources in a manner that benefits both the people and natural resources across the 16-county region of the Florida Panhandle. More information on the District, including a copy of the Fiscal Year 2014-2015 Budget, can be found at nwfwp.sgssys.info.

Cabinet Approves More Acquisitions to Benefit Springs and Water Resources

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 23, 2014
CONTACT: NWFWMD Communications, (850) 539-2663 or Public.Information@yopmail.com

Cabinet Approves More Acquisitions to Benefit Springs and Water Resources

TALLAHASSEE – Today, Governor Rick Scott and the Florida Cabinet approved the acquisition of nearly 350 acres to protect springs, water and natural resources in Washington County. This important parcel contains a 3rd magnitude spring and has more than 2,200 linear feet of water frontage along Holmes Creek.  The newly acquired acreage will be managed by the Northwest Florida Water Management District.

“The District is grateful to Governor Scott and the Cabinet for approving this purchase and their continued commitment to the protection and restoration of Florida’s springs resources,” said Governing Board Chairman George Roberts. “By securing land along Holmes Creek, the state and District are partnering to protect the Creek and the more than 50 crystal-clear springs that feed its flow.”

The acquisition is within the Florida’s First Magnitude Springs Florida Forever Project Boundary and consists of a purchase of 347.6 acres. Along with Brunson Landing Spring, a 3rd magnitude spring that produces an average of 2.6 million gallons of water per day, the property contains two smaller seeps which also feed Holmes Creek.

The parcel consists primarily of bottomland forest and hardwood swamp and lies adjacent to Choctawhatchee River Water Management Area, which is also owned by the District. The District will manage this new parcel as an addition to the water management area, ensuring greater environmental protection while providing public access for recreation.

The parcel contains a popular boat ramp, which will remain open and continue to be managed by Washington County.

“Holmes Creek and its many crystal clear springs are a wonderful source of family-friendly recreation and a major attraction to our area,” said Ted Everett, Executive Director of the Washington County Chamber of Commerce. “Projects like this are a win-win for our communities, as they protect our waterways and make it easier for families to get out and enjoy them.”

The District owns and manages more than 60,000 acres along Holmes Creek and the downstream Choctawhatchee River. Holmes Creek is the largest tributary to the Choctawhatchee, and a popular state-designated canoe trail.

NWFWMD Continues to Enhance Monitoring Network

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 15, 2014
CONTACT: NWFWMD Public Information Office (850) 539-2663 or Lauren.Engel@yopmail.com

NWFWMD Continues to Enhance Monitoring Network

HAVANA – The Northwest Florida Water Management District’s Governing Board approved a joint funding agreement with the United States Geological Survey (USGS) for stage and discharge monitoring at ten stations today.  This agreement includes the continuation of five existing stations, as well as the initiation of five new sites in support of the District’s development of minimum flows and levels (MFLs) for Wakulla Springs and St. Marks River Rise.

“Data collection plays an essential role in the District’s efforts to protect our water and natural resources,” said Director of Resource Management Guy Gowens. “By expanding and enhancing our monitoring network, we’re ensuring that we develop MFLs and implement other activities based on sound science and the best information available.”

Monitoring stations provide valuable water resource data that the District can use for a variety of purposes, including MFL development, consumptive use regulation, flood warning and other water resource management functions.

The joint funding agreement includes $170,900 in District funding for Fiscal Year 2014-2015.  The USGS is providing matching funds in the amount of $92,500 to cover the total operational cost of the network of $263,400.   The cost of gauge along Spring Creek is being split evenly between the District, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and the City of Tallahassee.

“The foundation of all protective environmental rules and policies is science,” said DEP Deputy Secretary of Water Policy and Ecosystem Restoration. “The development of sound science begins with a robust dataset.  I applaud the District’s commitment to gathering this data now so additional environmental protections can be set for these extremely valuable water resources.”

Under the agreement, five new stations will be installed at Fisher Creek, Black Creek, St. Marks River Sink and two sites along Lost Creek to collect data that is vital to the development of effective and protective MFLs.

The agreement also includes continued monitoring at Telogia Creek, Yellow River, Spring Creek and two sites along the Apalachicola River.

The USGS will operate all 10 stations for continuous discharge and stage monitoring. The data will be updated in real time and available on the USGS website.

The District continues to expand and enhance its data monitoring network to more effectively manage and protect the water resources of Northwest Florida. Data from the District’s network of rainfall, state and other stations is available on the District’s website at https://nwfwp.sgssys.info//data-publications/hydrologic-data/.

Proposed Springs Funding to Benefit Environment and Communities of Northwest Florida

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 11, 2014
CONTACT: NWFWMD Public Information Office (850) 539-2663 or Lauren.Engel@yopmail.com

Proposed Springs Funding to Benefit Environment and Communities of Northwest Florida

HAVANA – On Wednesday, the Legislative Budget Commission approved the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s (DEP) proposed $69 million in springs projects leveraged by the $30 million Governor Scott secured in the “It’s Your Money Tax Cut Budget” to bring the total invested in springs projects to more than $100 million in the last two years.

The Northwest Florida Water Management District will receive more than $6.8 million to implement eight projects designed to improve conditions in Wakulla Springs and Jackson Blue Spring, as well as springs associated with the Holmes Creek and Econfina Creek systems.

“The District commends Governor Scott, the Florida Legislature and Secretary Vinyard for their continued commitment to the protection and restoration of Florida’s springs,” said Executive Director Jon Steverson. “This funding will play a crucial role in the District’s efforts to protect water supply and preserve the natural resources of our area’s important spring ecosystems.”
Wakulla Springs Protection Projects

DEP and the District will invest more than $5.5 million to implement four wastewater improvement projects that will significantly improve the quality of water entering Wakulla Springs by reducing nutrients. The District will partner with Leon County for two of the projects (Lake Munson Target Area and Lake Bradford Mobile Home Park wastewater improvement projects) to connect a combined 160 single family septic units to the City of Tallahassee’s sewer system, providing a 95 percent reduction in nitrogen loading.  The County will provide 50 percent matching funding on both projects—leveraging an additional $1 million in springs protection.

“Leon County is pleased to partner with the District and DEP to implement these projects,” said Leon County Administrator Vincent S. Long. “Through this partnership, we are making an investment that will allow us to improve the health of Wakulla Springs and protect the natural systems of this area for our future generations.”

The District will also partner with Wakulla County to implement two projects (Wakulla Gardens and Magnolia Gardens Wastewater Improvement projects), which together will connect 270 single family septic units to the County’s sewer system and provide a 93 percent reduction in nitrogen loading. The County will provide 63 percent matching funding on both projects, for a total of approximately $7.7 million.

“These projects represent a win both for the environment and the residents of Wakulla County,” said County Commissioner Ralph Thomas. “They will allow us to make major improvements to the quality of water reaching this iconic spring, while minimizing the financial burden to the County.”

Jackson Blue Spring Protection Projects

The proposed plan includes nearly $1 million to implement two projects to improve water quality and increase the water quantity available to Jackson Blue Spring. More than $487,000 will be used to build upon the success of the District’s Jackson Blue Spring Agricultural Best Management Practices (BMP) grant program. This grant program will provide cost-share funding to agricultural producers for irrigation system improvements and equipment and tools to reduce fertilizer and pesticide use and improve water use efficiency—protecting both water supply and quality. Agricultural partners provide 25 percent in matching funding for this program.

The District will also initiate a project to investigate the Claiborne Aquifer as an alternative water source to the Floridan Aquifer for crop irrigation to offset water use demands, which would make additional water available to the springs.

“The proposed projects for Jackson Blue Spring will help the agricultural community develop improved practices and reduce water use,” said Representative Marti Coley (R-Marianna). “As we work to craft viable long-term solutions, I applaud Governor Scott, DEP, the District and the local agencies for their willingness to continue working in cooperation with local land owners to promote sustainable plans that will support both our economy and environment.”

Econfina Creek and Holmes Creek Springs Protection Projects

Devil’s Hole Spring is a second magnitude spring, located on Econfina Creek, with a discharge of approximately 21 million gallons per day. This spring is a popular public recreation area that is experiencing significant erosion and de-stabilization. The Devil’s Hole Spring Restoration project will stabilize, restore, and protect streambanks at the spring, which will improve water quality, restore historical shoreline impacted by erosion, and prevent destruction of habitat resulting from erosion and recreational use on Econfina Creek.  In addition to the shoreline restoration, boardwalks and access points will be installed to prevent future water quality and habitat impacts.

The Holmes Creek Springs Complex Restoration project will stabilize the streambank and provide stormwater treatment and appropriate riparian access at Cotton Landing, a recreation site along Holmes Creek.  The project will prevent erosion and sediment runoff into the creek and help protect this unique karst system.

“As a member of the District’s Governing Board and a Washington County resident, I want to thank Governor Scott and DEP for recognizing the importance of our springs to our residents and visitors,” said Governing Board Member Gary Clark. “We look forward to continuing to work with state and local partners to protect these irreplaceable natural treasures.”

Including the $6.8 million proposed by this plan, the District’s proposed Tentative Fiscal Year 2014-2015 budget includes more than $8.2 million for springs restoration and protection. This builds on the more than $3.3 million invested in springs protection by the District during the current Fiscal Year.

NWFWMD Celebrates Opening of Burnt Sock Landing

Posted on

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 25, 2014
CONTACT: NWFWMD Public Information Office (850) 539-2663 or
Lauren.Engel@yopmail.com

NWFWMD Celebrates Opening of Burnt Sock Landing

VERNON — The Northwest Florida Water Management District held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the grand opening of Burnt Sock Landing, a new public access and recreation site along Holmes Creek in Washington County.

The District recently completed public access and recreational improvements to the site, including road improvements and a parking area. Additional improvements included stabilizing the dirt boat ramp, which will improve water quality by reducing sediments flowing into the spring-fed creek and allow users to hand launch canoes, kayaks and small boats.

“The District owns and manages more than 60,000 acres along Holmes Creek and the downstream Choctawhatchee River to improve the health of these waterways and the natural resources that surround them,” said Executive Director Jon Steverson. “This includes enhancing areas like Burnt Sock Landing, which will improve water quality along the creek and the 57 crystal clear springs that feed its flow.”

Burnt Sock Landing is an exclusive canoe, kayak and small boat launch, which will enrich public access to the District’s northern-most ownership along Holmes Creek—a popular state-designated canoe trail. The landing will allow paddlers to enjoy the unique natural sights along this undisturbed stretch of the waterway.

“The District is proud to celebrate the completion of this project, which is helping us protect Holmes Creek and also expand public access to this beautiful waterbody,” said District Governing Board member Gary Clark. “Projects like these are win-win for our communities, as they protect our waterways and make it easier for our citizens to get out and enjoy them.”

The District will partner with Washington County to implement additional restoration and protection projects further downstream on Holmes Creek. The District will invest more than $250,000 for improvements designed to improve water quality and increase public access at Hightower, Spurling and Like Oak Landings.

The District’s Division of Land Management works to protect, restore and offer public access to many of the important springs, streams and rivers of the Panhandle through its ownership of more than 211,000 acres across Northwest Florida.

For more information, please visit: http://nwfwp.sgssys.info/lands/recreation/area/choctawhatchee-river-holmes-creek/burnt-sock-landing/