Marion County Commission Approves Water Conservation & Protection Plans for 2025-26

The Marion County Board of County Commissioners approved two countywide initiatives during its Sept. 16 meeting that put protecting water resources front and center for the coming fiscal year. The Stormwater Education Plan and Water Use Efficiency Plan outline a variety of programs designed to reduce pollution, encourage responsible water use, and safeguard Marion County's treasured springs and waterways.

Educating the community on stormwater impacts

The Stormwater Education Plan focuses on public awareness of how everyday actions affect local water quality. Highlights include:

• A countywide media campaign-billboards, radio spots, and digital ads-emphasizing fertilizer best practices, runoff reduction, and springs protection.

• Expanding the H2OMG youth-focused webpage, building on the success of the popular Newspapers in Education program (visit MarionFL.org/H2OMG to learn more.)

• Publishing the 2026 Stormwater Calendar, featuring conservation tips, facts, and student artwork.

• Hosting the annual "Run for the Springs" 5K event, connecting businesses, residents, and visitors with local water protection efforts.

• Providing on-site education at schools, homeowner association meetings, and major community events.

Together, these activities meet or exceed federal stormwater education requirements under the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit.

Encouraging smart water use

The Water Use Efficiency Plan helps residents save water and money while protecting groundwater. Planned initiatives include:

• Free irrigation evaluations, retrofits, and rebates for high-efficiency toilets and irrigation upgrades.

• Distribution of water conservation kits and rain sensors to reduce outdoor water waste.

• Community workshops, summer camp partnerships, and events promoting Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ and smart irrigation practices.

• Direct outreach through social media, county websites, and utility bill inserts.

These programs also help the county meet water conservation requirements of the St. Johns River and Southwest Florida water management districts.

Powered by partnerships

Funding for the initiatives is a blend of county resources and grant support. The county partners with the Withlacoochee Regional Water Supply Authority (WRWSA) and actively seeks additional funding from both the St. Johns River and Southwest Florida water management districts.

For more information about Marion County's water education and conservation programs, visit MarionFL.org/Stormwater or MarionFL.org/WaterResources.