SFWMD CONSIDERS WATER-USE RULE CHANGES FOR LAKE OKEECHOBEE SERVICE AREA

SFWMD CONSIDERS WATER-USE RULE CHANGES FOR LAKE OKEECHOBEE SERVICE AREA

The South Florida Water Management District is considering important water-use rule changes for the 700-square-mile Lake Okeechobee Service Area (LOSA). The U.S. Army Corp of Engineers’ recently approved Lake Okeechobee Regulation Schedule has created inconsistencies with the district’s current water-use rules and minimum flows and levels rules.

Because water-use permits within the LOSA are scheduled for renewal in October, the district is working at a feverish pace to complete the rule modifications before evaluating permit renewals in the region. Based on the current schedule, district staff will request governing board authorization to publish the proposed rules in June, with the rules becoming effective in September.

Stakeholders have expressed considerable concern regarding the proposed rules because it has been unclear how the “base line water use” will be calculated for some users. Specific concerns have also been expressed regarding the inclusion of the term “authorized water uses” in the proposed rules. On May 15, the Governing Board considered the potential impact of the rules on those who may not have permits that accurately reflect their historic water use, and directed staff to allow a 180-day grace period that will provide an opportunity for all water users to get their permits in order. Issues also are being raised regarding the reallocation of water that will become available as permits are retired.

Growers in the region are strongly encouraged to pay close attention to this important rule development process. For further information, producer members may contact the FFVA Government Affairs Office at (850) 521-0455.

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