quality water available, including reclaimed water, for the proposed use, if it’s technically, environmentally, and economically feasible. Funding Assistance The SWFWMD cooperative funding initiative program provides financial assistance to local governments and utilities for water resource-related projects, including reclaimed water projects. Typically 50 percent of the cost of design and construction, pumping, storage, transmission, distribution, related appurtenances, and development of reuse master plans is funded. The district has developed a comprehensive reclaimed water webpage to assist suppliers and users in maximizing available reclaimed water resources. Suwannee River Water Management District Reuse Program The Suwannee River Water Management District (SRWMD) is committed to developing alternative water supply programs with both public and private partners. The project development focus will balance the needs of communities and natural systems. Alternative water supply funding is directed to partnerships that foster collaborative efforts in addressing resource issues.
Cost-share funding is made available to communities and other water users that have identified needs and have provided appropriate assurances that the project will be implemented where fiscally practicable. Reuse Requirements Inside Water Resource Caution Areas For projects located either wholly or in part within WRCAs, the district shall presume that the use of alternative water supplies is feasible and must be implemented consistent with the district’s “Water Use Permitting Guide.” Applicants shall coordinate with the district to identify alternative water supplies. Reuse Requirements Outside Water Resource Caution Areas The applicant shall provide a feasibility assessment for alternative water supplies. The use of an alternative water supply is considered environmentally feasible if the source is permitted or permittable under Chapter 373 or Chapter 403, F.S. The use of an alternative water supply is considered technically feasible if an uncommitted, adequate supply of alternative water is available at the site of the proposed use to meet all or part of the applicant’s water needs
Funding Assistance The district provides cooperative funding programs and grant opportunities for projects that focus on ensuring adequate and sustainable water supply, improving and maintaining good water quality, restoring and protecting natural systems, and providing flood protection.
Statement of Support for Water Reuse The statement of support, developed by all of the participating agencies, is a clear statement of their support for water reuse and their commitment to working together to encourage and promote water reuse in Florida (see sidebar).
Water Reuse for Florida: Strategies for Effective Use of Reclaimed Water This report is a useful and important document. The centerpiece of the report is a series of strategies designed to encourage efficient and effective use of reclaimed water in Florida. It can also serve as a reference to the evolution of Florida’s water reuse program and a roadmap for water reuse in the 21st century. S
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Florida Water Resources Journal • April 2022
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