Last Updated on April 10, 2025 by Stella Canfield
Decision-makers and community leaders are invited to the Water School for Leaders, a two-day professional development program to provide essential, science-based information on current and future water issues in Marion and Sumter counties.
The Water School for Leaders offers a policy-neutral and fact-based program on balancing growth while protecting Florida’s water resources. The event will feature an in-class session, a field trip to a new advanced wastewater treatment facility, and group discussions. Topics will include water policies, conservation, pollution reduction, recent research, and current efforts in Marion and Sumter counties to protect water resources.
“Water is one of Florida’s most precious resources, so it’s crucial that we equip our leaders with the knowledge and tools to protect it,” says Yilin Zhuang, UF/IFAS regional specialized water resources Extension agent and speaker in the program. “The Water School for Leaders provides a unique opportunity to explore the latest trends and research in water management, empowering communities to make informed, sustainable decisions.”
The comprehensive program is specifically designed for elected officials, government employees, business leaders and community organization leaders. However, professionals from all sectors who are interested in water resource management are also welcome to attend.
Marion County Water School for Leaders
- Dates: Thursday, May 1 and Friday, May 2
- Time: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. each day
- Location: Southeastern Livestock Pavilion Auditorium (2232 NE Jacksonville Road, Ocala, FL 34470)
- Registration: https://2025MarionWater.eventbrite.com or call Angie at 352-671-8400 to avoid Eventbrite Fees. Registration closes April 25.
Sumter County Water School for Leaders
- Dates: Thursday, May 8 and Friday, May 9
- Time: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. each day
- Location: Wildwood Community Center (6500 Powell Road, Wildwood, FL 34785)
- Registration: https://2025SumterWaterSchool.eventbrite.com Registration closes April 25.
Each event costs $50 and covers lunch for both days. Scholarships are available for those who need financial assistance. Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are also available with 10 CEUs for FNGLA’s Certified Professionals and Florida Water Star Accredited Professionals. For more information, please contact owells@ufl.edu.
For further details, please contact Yilin Zhuang at yilinz@ufl.edu.
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