Welcome to this episode of the Water Matters Podcast, presented by the Southwest Florida Water Management District! Today, we’re diving deep into one of the most common questions we get from homeowners: How to properly manage your irrigation system.

Whether you’re wondering how often to water your lawn, how much water it needs, or the best type of irrigation for your plants, we’ve got the answers to help you conserve water, maintain a healthy landscape, and navigate Florida’s unique conditions.

In this episode, host Michele Sager is joined by water conservation expert Katherin Munson to tackle frequently asked questions about irrigation and water use at home, covering topics like:

• How much water your lawn truly needs.
• Current watering restrictions and where to find local guidelines.
• The benefits of early morning irrigation to avoid fungal issues.
• Smart controllers and rain sensors for efficient watering.
• Understanding irrigation zones and different sprinkler types.
• How to maintain your irrigation system to avoid leaks and water waste.

Hurricane season in Florida officially runs from June to November, but at the Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD), storm preparedness is a year-round commitment.

In this episode of the Water Matters podcast, join host Michele Sager and guest Tim Fallon, Planning Section Chief, as they take you behind the scenes at the District’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC).

Discover how SWFWMD’s emergency management team coordinates flood prevention, water level control, and community support to keep Florida’s residents safe when storms hit.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Hurricane Preparation: Learn how SWFWMD’s EOC prepares months in advance for potential hurricane impacts, ensuring rapid response capabilities.
• Flood Prevention and Water Control: Explore the role of key structures like the Tampa Bypass Canal, which protects Tampa and surrounding areas by managing water flow and preventing flood damage.
• Inter-Agency Support: Discover how SWFWMD assists local communities with storm recovery, providing pumps, equipment, and personnel to clear floodwaters and debris.
• Data Collection & Flood Modeling: See how data from water levels and storm impacts helps SWFWMD develop advanced flood models, guiding future emergency response and water management decisions.
• Training and Emergency Exercises: Get insight into the hands-on training and FEMA-certified drills SWFWMD holds to keep its staff ready for any disaster.

Welcome to the Water Matters Podcast , brought to you by the Southwest Florida Water Management District! Join host Michele Sager and Dr. Madison Trowbridge, a springs scientist , as they dive deep into the unique ecosystems of Florida’s springs, especially those within our District.

In this episode, you’ll learn: What is a Spring? - Discover how groundwater flows to the surface, forming natural springs, and the critical role the aquifer plays in this process.

Dr. Trowbridge also provides an inside look into her work, from conducting field studies and mapping submerged aquatic vegetation to her published research on salinity effects and spring health. Her passion for springs protection shines through as she shares how even small steps at home can lead to significant positive impacts on these fragile ecosystems.

For more tips and detailed guides on springs conservation, visit WaterMatters.org/Springs. Be sure to subscribe to our channel for ongoing discussions on water conservation, District projects, and the importance of Florida’s water resources!

Did you know nearly every natural community in Florida is shaped by fire? In this episode of the Water Matters podcast, host Michele Sager interviews Felicia Nudo, a land manager with the Southwest Florida Water Management District, to discuss the vital role of prescribed fires in Florida’s unique ecosystems. Learn why Florida’s ecosystems—and the plants, animals and communities within them—depend on controlled burns to thrive and remain healthy.

Some benefits of prescribed fires include:

• Nutrient Recycling: Fires return essential nutrients to the soil, enabling plants to regrow and strengthening the ecosystem’s foundation.
• Wildlife Habitats: By reducing overgrown vegetation, prescribed fires allow animals to move freely and access more food sources, creating a balanced food chain.
• Water Conservation: Removing dense vegetation lowers water absorption and reduces transpiration, allowing more water to remain within the ecosystem.

Prescribed fires are more than a fire management tool; they are essential for preserving Florida's unique ecosystems and safeguarding communities. Through careful planning and strategic implementation, these controlled burns reduce wildfire risks, promote new plant growth and support diverse wildlife habitats. By understanding and supporting prescribed fires, we can help maintain the health of our natural landscapes and ensure that Florida’s ecosystems continue to thrive. Together, we can appreciate the power of fire as a force for renewal and protection in our environment.

In this episode of the Water Matters Podcast, hosted by Michele Sager, we dive into the world of water conservation with guest Katherine Munson, lead communications coordinator at the Southwest Florida Water Management District (District). Did you know that the average person in our region uses 99 gallons of water per day? This episode is packed with practical tips and resources to help you conserve water both inside and outside your home, making every drop count.

Podcast Highlights:

• Importance of conserving Florida’s water for communities and ecosystems
• Outdoor water-saving strategies, including irrigation maintenance and smart controllers
• Practical indoor tips for bathrooms, kitchens and laundry rooms
• Special advice for new Florida residents on landscaping and water management
• Overview of the Water Use Calculator and its impact on conservation efforts

By adopting these strategies, you can help protect Florida’s water resources while saving on utility costs. For more resources and to calculate your water usage, visit WaterMatters.org/Water101 and make water conservation a part of your daily routine!

Whether you’re a hiker, biker, camper, or simply a nature enthusiast, outdoor recreation on West Central Florida’s conservation lands offers an escape into natural beauty across thousands of acres, thanks to the Southwest Florida Water Management District (District). This episode of the Water Matters Podcast, hosted by Michele Sager and featuring land manager Felicia Nudo, dives deep into the free recreational opportunities available within the District’s lands. Covering a 16-county area, from Marion County in the north to Charlotte County in the south, these lands protect critical water resources while providing outdoor enthusiasts a chance to reconnect with Florida's pristine environments.

Key Highlights and Recreational Opportunities Camping:

• Camping: The District offers several types of camping.
• Hiking: With nearly 500 miles of trails, there are paths for all skill levels.
• Paved trails: Ideal for beginners or those seeking a leisurely stroll