District Increases Water Restrictions in Tampa Bay Area

Due to below normal rainfall, reduced river levels and increasing water supply concerns, the Southwest Florida Water Management District's Governing Board is increasing water restrictions in the Tampa Bay area. Even though December rainfall was near normal for our region, rainfall in January and February was 3.5 inches below normal.

Phase III restrictions begin March 13 for lawn watering, car washing and fountain use in Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas counties. Under the Phase III restrictions, the allowable lawn and landscape watering schedule is reduced to once-per-week on a specified day based on address. Micro-irrigation and hand watering of non-lawn areas still are allowed any day; but like all irrigation, such activity must now occur only during designated hours (before 8 a.m. or after 6 p.m. unless otherwise specified by a stricter local ordinance). Car washing is limited to once per week, and fountain operation will be limited to four hours per day. These restrictions apply to well, pond and canal water sources in addition to city or county water supplies.

There are no changes to the Phase I restrictions currently in place for other water uses, including agricultural irrigation, golf course operations, industrial processes, or pressure washing activities. For additional information about water restrictions and water conservation, please contact your local utility or visit the District's website at WaterMatters.org/restrictions/

Tara LaSalla

Inspiration can sometimes be found in the most unusual ways. For Tara, it came in the form of a movie based on a Peter Benchley novel. Steven Spielberg's version of 'JAWS' became a worldwide phenomenon at the time, but unfortunately it also served to spread a great deal of misinformation about sharks.

Tara was fascinated by these creatures from a young age and throughout her schooling she realized that these fish were vital to the health of the world's oceans. This led her to attend Eckerd College in St Petersburg, FL where she received her degree in marine biology.

Tara remains in the St. Petersburg area as an active community leader in the form of environmental and marine conservation and education. Her work with the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, Tampa Bay Watch and other local organizations continues to inspire those around her to protect our natural resources. She holds true to one of Mahatma Gandhi's principles: "Be the change you want to see in the world."

Tara is proud to partner with Going Green Tampa and shares their vision of offering the local community resources to become eco-friendly as well as to live a sustainable lifestyle.