In March, we hosted the second webinar in our 2026 Water Wednesday: A New Residents Guide to Florida’s Environment series. This session, Florida Water 101, focused on where Florida’s water comes from, how it is used, and what residents should know to use it wisely.
Where Does Florida’s Water Come From?
Florida is known for its water resources, including rivers, lakes, and coastlines. However, most of the state’s drinking water comes from underground.
- Groundwater is the primary source of drinking water in Florida.
- The Floridan Aquifer System is one of the most productive aquifers in the world and supplies water to millions of residents.
- In some regions, other aquifers are used, such as the Sand and Gravel Aquifer in the Panhandle and the Biscayne Aquifer in South Florida.
Water is delivered in two main ways:
- About 90% of residents receive water through public water systems that are regulated and monitored.
- About 10-12% rely on private wells, where homeowners are responsible for water testing and system maintenance.
How Water Is Used at Home
One of the key takeaways from this webinar is how water is used in Florida households.
- A Florida home may use 250 to 300 gallons of water per day.
- Outdoor irrigation is often the largest use, especially for lawns.
- In some cases, irrigation can account for more than half of total household water use, and up to 72% for high water users.
To help meet demand, many communities use alternative water sources such as reclaimed water for irrigation.
Water Challenges in Florida
Florida’s water resources are closely connected to population growth, land use, and climate.
- Population growth: Florida’s population is projected to reach about 34 million by 2070, increasing demand for water.
- Water quality: About half of assessed water bodies are considered impaired, often due to nutrients, bacteria, or other pollutants.
- Water supply planning: Much of the state is designated as a Water Resource Caution Area, meaning water supply may not meet future demands without careful management.
These challenges highlight the need for both system-level planning and individual actions.
Q&A Highlights from the Webinar
During the live session, participants asked several practical questions:
Do I need a home water filtration system?
It depends on your water quality and goals. Many systems address taste or hardness rather than health risks. Testing your water first can help determine whether treatment is needed and what type is appropriate.
Can reclaimed water be used on edible plants?
Yes, with some considerations. For crops eaten raw, drip irrigation is recommended so water does not contact the edible portion of the plant. More information, please read Reclaimed Water in Your Florida-Friendly Edible Landscape.
Why is gray water reuse limited in Florida?
State regulations prioritize public health. In most cases, gray water must be treated through septic or wastewater systems, which limits direct reuse options. Read more Gray Water Reuse in Florida.
How will El Niño affect rainfall patterns, and how should different groups prepare?
A transition to El Niño is likely this summer and may persist through the end of the year. El Niño typically brings wetter than normal conditions to Florida in winter and early spring, with above average rainfall expected in winter 2026-27 if it develops as forecast. In the near term, dry conditions may continue due to seasonal patterns, existing rainfall deficits, and warm temperatures. Even after the wet season begins, recovery may take time.
Whether El Niño develops in time to influence the Atlantic hurricane season remains uncertain, but it is more likely to have an influence on the latter part of the season. Preparation remains important. Prepare for both short-term dry conditions and later wetter weather. Continue following irrigation restrictions and be mindful of wildfire risk now, then check drainage (gutters, grading) and review your emergency plan ahead of potential heavy rainfall and storms later in the year.
What You Can Do
Residents play an important role in protecting Florida’s water resources. A few simple actions include:
- Follow local irrigation schedules and restrictions
- Fix leaks promptly
- Use Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ principles
- Maintain septic systems properly (if applicable)
- Stay informed through Extension programs and local resources
Watch the Recording
Florida Water 101: Where Your Water Comes From and How to Use It Wisely.
Join Us for the Next Webinar: Florida-Friendly Landscaping
The next session in the series will be held on April 15: Florida-Friendly Landscaping: Designing a Yard for Florida Conditions. This webinar will focus on how to design and manage landscapes that work with Florida’s climate while reducing water use. Register via Zoom.
Whether you are new to Florida or have lived here for years, this webinar will provide a helpful overview of how Florida’s water resources work. More information please visit UF/IFAS Extension Water Resources Program.
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