LIVE OAK, FLA., Aug. 02, 2017 – The Suwannee River Water Management District (District) celebrates water conservation, protection, and cleanliness every month, but especially throughout the month of August, which is National Water Quality Month. The purpose of National Water Quality Month is to raise awareness of the challenges facing this area’s water bodies and encourage citizens to take action to protect water resources.

“Water quality protection is a core tenant of our mission and our staff are dedicated to combatting threats to water quality,” said Hugh Thomas, Executive Director for the District. “Protection of our springs, rivers and lakes is paramount to continuing our way of life in North Florida. Ensuring the sustainability of these resources for future generations is not a job we take for granted.”

With a team of environmental scientists, hydrologists and engineers dedicated to water quality, the District regularly monitors the health of area water resources and combats threats to water bodies. Additionally, the District recently established the Agriculture and Environmental Projects team who actively work with agricultural and industrial operations, along with communities within the District, to implement best management practices (BMP) that conserve water and nutrients.

The biggest challenge facing water quality in the District is the presence of high nutrient concentrations. Excess phosphorous and nitrogen concentrations can create outbreaks of algae, making it hard for some native aquatic ecosystems to thrive. High phosphorous and nitrogen concentrations can be caused by poor industrial wastewater management, leaching from fields with inefficient fertilizer and pesticide applications, and poorly maintained sewage and septic tanks.

During National Water Quality Month, it is important to take responsibility for your impact on the environment. Every resident plays a role in the condition of our water resources. Working together, even small lifestyle changes can lead to a healthier water supply in the area.

• Do not use antibacterial soaps or antibacterial cleaning products.
• Do not flush medications down a toilet or drain.
• Do not put any materials besides water in a storm drain.
• Promptly fix oil leaks from vehicles.
• Avoid or lower your use of pesticides and chemical fertilizers.
• Pick up after your pet.
• Pick up trash in the environment.
• Volunteer to clean up a local waterway.
• Implement best management practices in your agricultural operation and home lawn management.
• Manage the cleanliness of personal wells.

For more information about National Water Quality Month or general conservation practices, please contact the District at 386.688.7182 or visit www.mysuwanneeriver.com.

The mission of the Suwannee River Water Management District is to protect and manage water resources using science-based solutions to support natural systems and the needs of the public. The District holds true to the belief of water for nature, water for people. Headquartered in Live Oak, Florida, the District serves 15 surrounding north-central Florida counties.

For more information about the District, visit www.mysuwanneeriver.com or follow us on Facebook and Twitter, search @SRWMD.

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