St. Johns River Water Management District
Government AdministrationFlorida, United States501-1000 Employees
The St. Johns River Water Management District is a Florida government agency responsible for regulating groundwater and surface water resources across an 18-county region in the northeast and east-central part of the state. Based in Palatka, the district employs hundreds of staff to carry out its duties, operating under the general supervisory authority of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. The district was established in 1972 as an independent special district created by Chapter 373 of the Florida Statutes. Its core missions include ensuring a reliable water supply for both people and the environment, protecting water quality, safeguarding natural systems, and providing flood protection through regional projects. The district serves residents, communities, and other water users within its 18-county jurisdiction, addressing water-resource challenges through planning and project implementation. A notable recent development is the July 2024 update to the Indian River Lagoon Feasibility Study, reflecting ongoing evaluation of regional water-management options.