Michael Gates

Southwest Florida Water Management District

The District is responsible for managing and protecting the water resources and related environmental systems. To protect natural systems that sustain ground water, there must be limitations on how much water can be withdrawn. This is accomplished through planning, permitting and regulation. Local and regional governments, agricultural and other users come to the District to request water use permits. In addition to protection through regulation, the District technically and financially assists regional water supply authorities and local governments in developing new water sources.