The mission of the Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) is to manage the water and water-related resources within its boundaries. Central to the mission is maintaining the balance between the water needs of current and future users while protecting and maintaining the natural systems that provide the District with its existing and future water supply.

The Governing Board of the Southwest Florida Water Management District assumes its responsibilities as authorized in Chapter 373 and other chapters of the Florida Statutes by directing a wide-range of programs, initiatives, and actions.

These programs include, but are not limited to, flood control, regulatory programs, water conservation, education, and supportive data collection and analysis efforts.

WATER SUPPLY

To ensure an adequate supply of the water resource for all reasonable and beneficial uses, now and in the future, while protecting and maintaining the water and water-related resources of the District.

FLOOD PROTECTION

To minimize the potential for damage from floods by protecting and restoring the natural water storage and conveyance functions of floodprone areas. The District shall give preference whenever possible to non-structural surface water management methods.

WATER QUALITY MANAGEMENT

To protect water quality by preventing further degradation of the water resource and enhancing water quality where appropriate.

NATURAL SYSTEM MANAGEMENT

To preserve, protect and restore natural systems to support their natural hydrologic and ecologic functions.

MANAGEMENT SUPPORT

To ensure management support services effectively and efficiently contribute to realization of the District's mission to manage and protect water resources.

The 11-member Governing Board establishes policies for the entire 16-county District. The Governing Board represents a wide cross section of interests, including agricultural, recreational, business, industrial, urban, rural and the public. Board members are unpaid citizen volunteers appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Florida Senate. They serve four-year terms. Each member also serves as the ex officio chair of a Basin Board. The Governing Board also appoints the District's Executive Director, who directs all District activities. The Florida Senate confirms this candidate. 

For more information visit their website at www.swfwmd.state.fl.us