Last weeks program was provided by Rotarian Matt Edgemon.  Matt’s guest speaker was Katherine Munson, Senior Communications Coordinator with Southwest Florida Water Management District.  The Southwest Florida Water Management District (District) was created in 1961 by a special act of the Florida Legislature to be the local sponsor of the “Four River Basins, Florida Project.” This was a major flood control project sponsored by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) after Hurricane Donna caused massive damage to southwest Florida in 1960. The project included flood control structures and water detention areas, and encompassed a 6,000-square-mile area. SWFMD continues to cooperate with the Corps today in maintaining and operating portions of this flood control system.  Responsibilities expanded in the mid- to late-1960s when regulatory programs for regional wellfields serving the Tampa Bay metropolitan area were initiated, and again in 1972 when the Florida Legislature passed the Water Resources Act. The Act significantly furthered the transition from strictly flood control to a more broad-based policy of resource management and service to the public. The Act was in response to a growing need for a more comprehensive approach to water management in the State.  The District’s duties and responsibilities have increased over the years. Some of these new duties were the result of legislative action; others came about through delegation by state agencies; while others were initiated by the District under existing authority in response to evolving water management challenges. While the mission has remained essentially the same since passage of the Water Resources Act — to manage and protect water and related natural resources — the areas of responsibility now encompass water supply, flood protection, water quality management and natural systems management. Moreover, there is growing recognition that the integration of all these areas is essential to effective planning and management of the resource.  SWFMD covers 10,000 square miles, 16 counties, 5 districts and 5 million people.  They also own and manage 500,000 acres of management areas.    Ninety percent of our water comes from rain replenished aquifers.  The rest comes from local waterways, lakes and rivers.  Conservation is important to maintain the water availability to all.  It is important for each of us to do our part to conserve water.  Saving water outdoors is one of the biggest opportunities.  Check for leaks at water faucets, hoses and connectors.  Automatic lawn and sprinkling systems are also contribute to water loss.  Check swimming pools for leaks.  Irrigation is one of the largest uses of water.  Remember to irrigate only when your lawn and landscape need water.  Always look for leaks.  In your home, there are several areas that should be looked at for leaks to conserve water and to reduce your water bill!  Leaking toilets and faucets are the biggest water “wasters”!  Check out the watermatters.org website for tips to reduce water “waste” and conservation tips. - provided by Mike Arndt

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