The mission of the Southwest Florida Water Management District is to manage water and related natural resources to ensure their continued availability while maximizing environmental, economic and recreational benefits. Central to the mission is maintaining the balance between the water needs of current and future users while protecting and maintaining water and related natural resources which 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.

