PALATKA, Fla., and LIVE OAK, Fla., Nov. 14, 2025 ─ The St. Johns River and Suwannee River water management districts approved Water First North Florida, a collaborative effort to restore river and spring flows and secure long-term water supplies for the region. The initiative will recharge the Floridan Aquifer with high-quality reclaimed water while supporting ecosystem restoration, economic growth, and community water needs.
Here’s what environmental leaders and stakeholders are saying about the project.
“Water First North Florida represents over a decade of planning and research. Water First is our most promising path forward to ensure a sustainable water supply, both for today and for future generations. As pressure on our water resources continues to grow, it’s essential that we explore innovative approaches to safeguard this critical resource. We’re proud to collaborate with DEP, SJRWMD, and our local utilities on this important initiative to protect our unique water resources in the Suwannee district and meet the water supply needs for growth in north Florida.” – Hugh Thomas, Executive Director, Suwannee River Water Management District
“Water First reflects the kind of forward-thinking, science-driven approach we must take to ensure a resilient water supply for North Florida. By investing in practical and innovative solutions now, we are protecting the natural systems that define our region and supporting the needs of the communities that depend on them. This project is a powerful example of what we can achieve when sound science, strong partnerships, and shared commitment come together to secure our water future.” – Mike Register, Executive Director, St. Johns River Water Management District
“Water First North Florida demonstrates the kind of innovation and collaboration that define Florida’s approach to protecting our water resources. By investing in science-based, regional solutions, we are strengthening the long-term health of our aquifer, restoring iconic springs and rivers, and ensuring sustainable water supplies for our communities and economy.” – Adam Blalock, Deputy Secretary of Ecosystem Restoration Programs, Florida Department of Environmental Protection
“JEA fully supports the Water Management District and regional solutions such as the Water First Noth Florida Project" – Robert Zammataro, Jacksonville Electric Authority (JEA) Chief Water System Officer
“CCUA fully supports the Water First North Florida project as the most effective and cost-efficient way to sustainably protect our region’s environmental resources and also support our growing population and industries.” – Jeremy D. Johnston, Executive Director, Clay County Utility Authority
“Water First North Florida is a monumental step forward in protecting our region’s water resources and providing sustainable water supply for years to come.” – Rick Hutton, Principal Engineer, Gainesville Regional Utilities
“The St. Johns County Utility Department is proud to join our state and local partners in this landmark regional project to protect our springs and rivers, support water supply, and deliver a sustainable solution for generations to come.” – Teri Pinson, Senior Engineer, St. Johns County Utility Department
“Florida Farm Bureau Federation supports the Water First North Florida project as recommended by SJRWMD and SRWMD staff, along with research into alternative water sources throughout the state. This project will be instrumental in ensuring the Lower Santa Fe and Ichetucknee Rivers Priority Springs Minimum Flows and Levels are met, along with improving north Florida aquifer levels with surface water that would traditionally be lost to tide. This project will ensure that residents, businesses, agriculture, and other industries will remain sustainable in the area for future generations to come while protecting the environment and Florida’s natural resources. We applaud the SJRWMD and SRWMD Governing Board members and staff for their efforts to get ahead of the growing demand for a clean and abundant source of water for Floridians and encourage the Florida Legislature to appropriate state funds to ensure this project comes to fruition.” – Jeb Smith, President, Florida Farm Bureau Federation
“The Water First North Florida project represents an ambitious step toward addressing one of the region’s most serious water challenges. With broad collaboration among agencies, utilities, and conservation partners, this effort can help sustain the rivers, springs, and wetlands that define North Florida’s landscape. Audubon Florida is excited to move forward with the stakeholder engagement part of this project, bringing strong science and the dedication of the region’s partners to bear on these daunting issues." – Julie Wraithmell, Executive Director, Audubon Florida
To learn more, visit https://waterfirstnorthfl.com/.
About the St. Johns River Water Management District
St. Johns River Water Management District staff are committed to ensuring the sustainable use and protection of water resources for the benefit of the people of the District and the state of Florida. The St. Johns River Water Management District is one of five districts in Florida managing groundwater and surface water supplies in the state. The District encompasses all or part of 18 northeast and east-central Florida counties. District headquarters are in Palatka, and staff also are available to serve the public at service centers in Apopka, Jacksonville and Palm Bay.
Connect with us on X at @SJRWMD, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn. For more information about the District, please visit www.sjrwmd.com.
About the Suwannee River Water Management District
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. 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, Instagram, YouTube, and X.
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