Community Encouraged to Conserve Water
St. Johns River Water Management District Declares Phase II Severe Water Shortage
The St. Johns River Water Management District (SJRWMD) has issued a Phase II Severe Water Shortage Declaration affecting St. Johns County and several other counties across Northeast Florida following prolonged dry conditions and declining groundwater levels.
The declaration applies to Clay, Duval, Flagler, Nassau, Putnam, and St. Johns counties, along with portions of several additional counties within the District’s jurisdiction. The action reflects regional drought conditions that have developed across Northeast and Central Florida after extended rainfall deficits and declining groundwater levels.
According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, much of the region is currently classified as experiencing Extreme Drought (D3) conditions. Monitoring data shows groundwater levels and river flows throughout the region have fallen well below normal levels for this time of year.
As part of the Phase II declaration, residential landscape irrigation remains limited to one day per week year-round, including during Daylight Saving Time (March 8 to Nov. 1, 2026) when irrigation schedules normally increase. The measure is intended to reduce demand and help stabilize regional water resources during the ongoing drought.
Outdoor irrigation typically represents the largest share of residential water use. Following the once-per-week irrigation schedule and limiting unnecessary watering are among the most effective ways residents can help conserve water during dry conditions.
“Water conservation plays an important role in protecting our aquifer and maintaining reliable service for our community,” said Neal Shinkre, Director of the St. Johns County Utilities Department. “Small actions like adjusting irrigation schedules, checking irrigation systems for leaks, and watering only when necessary can make a meaningful difference during dry periods.”
Wasteful and unnecessary water use is prohibited under the District’s water shortage order. Residents, businesses, and property managers are encouraged to voluntarily reduce water use whenever possible as regional water managers continue to monitor drought conditions.
Residents who observe possible water waste, malfunctioning irrigation systems, or other water-related concerns on public property or within County-maintained areas can report the issue through SJC Connect, which is available as a mobile app and on the County website. It allows users to submit service requests directly to County staff, helping crews identify and address potential issues more quickly. Community reporting helps the County respond more quickly to potential issues and supports shared efforts to conserve water during dry conditions.
The St. Johns County Utilities Department continues to support long-term water supply planning through investments in reclaimed water infrastructure, which provides a sustainable alternative for irrigation and reduces demand on the potable water system.
Residents can also reduce water use by incorporating Florida-Friendly Landscaping Program principles that emphasize drought-tolerant plants, improved soil health, and efficient irrigation methods.
Regional water managers will continue monitoring rainfall, groundwater levels, and river flows to determine whether additional conservation measures may be needed if dry conditions persist.
For more information about irrigation schedules, conservation tips, and reclaimed water, visit the St. Johns County Utilities web page.
Stay informed of more St. Johns County news by subscribing to our e-newsletters and learn how we’re shaping our community’s future by advancing the SJC Strategic Plan through the Office of Public Affairs.
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