The Southwest Florida Water Management District's decision Monday to extend once-a-week watering restrictions at least through June came with a warning that should shock all residents into reconsidering their water-use habits.
If the drought continues, district staff and board members said, outdoor watering could be banned altogether.
The districtwide watering restriction, which some communities and counties had in place before the board mandated it in January, is sorely needed to combat drought that has sapped water from the ground, lakes and rivers. From November 2005 through the end of October, the rainfall deficit is nearly 21 inches, and dry conditions are forecast through winter, spring and early summer.
South of the Tampa Bay area, conditions are worse. The Peace River/Manasota Regional Water Supply Authority, which provides water to about 250,000 people in Sarasota, Charlotte and DeSoto counties, only has enough water in storage to last from 80 to 100 days. Tougher conservation measures are needed.
During severe droughts, residents shouldn't waste drinking water on lawns and plants. Reclaimed water and rainfall - as infrequent as it's been lately - should be used for lawn care.
The governing board shouldn't hesitate to ban all outdoor watering or take other tough steps to protect this vital resource in the coming months if it becomes necessary. But if residents take it upon themselves to increase conservation efforts, perhaps such drastic measures won't be needed.
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