{"id":54,"date":"2021-08-16T17:41:55","date_gmt":"2021-08-16T17:41:55","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/live-tampa-bay-water.pantheonsite.io\/?page_id=54"},"modified":"2026-03-23T12:06:42","modified_gmt":"2026-03-23T16:06:42","slug":"newsroom","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.tampabaywater.org\/newsroom\/","title":{"rendered":"Newsroom"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-cover is-light is-style-default min-height-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2560\" height=\"437\" class=\"wp-block-cover__image-background wp-image-3724\" alt=\"\" src=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/newsroom-background2-scaled.jpg\" data-object-fit=\"cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.tampabaywater.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/newsroom-background2-scaled.jpg 2560w, https:\/\/www.tampabaywater.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/newsroom-background2-300x51.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.tampabaywater.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/newsroom-background2-1024x175.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.tampabaywater.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/newsroom-background2-768x131.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.tampabaywater.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/newsroom-background2-1536x262.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.tampabaywater.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/newsroom-background2-2048x349.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px\" \/><span aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-cover__background has-background-dim-0 has-background-dim\"><\/span><div class=\"wp-block-cover__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-cover-is-layout-flow\">\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-off-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-2ec93fc7ee335827af11f56ed6ad0798\" style=\"font-size:69px\">Newsroom<\/h1>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group container my-30\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size has-custom-lineheight wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"line-height:1.5;font-size:20px\">Welcome to the Tampa Bay Water newsroom where you'll find news stories, story ideas, photos, video, and more. If you are a reporter, you may request interviews through our public communications department.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size has-custom-lineheight wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"line-height:1.5;font-size:20px\">Tampa Bay Water provides wholesale water to the public utility systems of Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas counties, and the cities of New Port Richey, St. Petersburg and Tampa.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-text-color has-gray-color has-css-opacity has-gray-background-color has-background is-style-wide\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-blue-color has-text-color\" id=\"news-media-inquiries\">News Media Inquiries<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-style-default my-30 is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.333%\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For news media requests, please use the media request form. If you need immediate assistance you may contact:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Brandon Moore, APR<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Public Communications Manager<br><a href=\"tel:+17277912304\"><strong>O: (727)&nbsp;791-2304<\/strong><\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"tel:+17274700702\"><strong>M: (727)&nbsp;470-0702<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Malique Rankin<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Public Communications Specialist<br><a href=\"tel:+17277912315\"><strong>O: (727) 791-2315<\/strong><\/a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href=\"tel:+17273375833\"><strong>M: (727) 337-5833<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"415\" src=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/Brandon-Media-crop2.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3734\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.tampabaywater.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Brandon-Media-crop2.jpg 800w, 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class='ginput_container'><input name='input_8' id='input_6_8' type='text' value='' autocomplete='new-password'\/><\/div><div class='gfield_description' id='gfield_description_6_8'>This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.<\/div><\/div><div id=\"field_6_1\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-text gfield--input-type-text gfield--width-full grid__row-start--1 grid__column-start--1 grid__row-end--1 grid__column-end--6 field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\"  ><label class='gfield_label gform-field-label' for='input_6_1'>Name<\/label><div class='ginput_container ginput_container_text'><input name='input_1' id='input_6_1' type='text' value='' class='large'    placeholder='Please enter your name'  aria-invalid=\"false\"  autocomplete=\"name\" \/><\/div><\/div><div id=\"field_6_2\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-text gfield--input-type-text gfield--width-full grid__row-start--2 grid__column-start--1 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gformWrapperDiv ) {            const visibilitySpan = document.createElement( \"span\" );            visibilitySpan.id = \"gform_visibility_test_6\";            gformWrapperDiv.insertAdjacentElement( \"afterend\", visibilitySpan );        }        const visibilityTestDiv = document.getElementById( \"gform_visibility_test_6\" );        let postRenderFired = false;        function triggerPostRender() {            if ( postRenderFired ) {                return;            }            postRenderFired = true;            gform.core.triggerPostRenderEvents( 6, current_page );            if ( visibilityTestDiv ) {                visibilityTestDiv.parentNode.removeChild( visibilityTestDiv );            }        }        function debounce( func, wait, immediate ) {            var timeout;            return function() {                var context = this, args = arguments;                var later = function() {                    timeout = null;                    if ( !immediate ) func.apply( context, args );                };                var callNow = immediate && !timeout;                clearTimeout( timeout );                timeout = setTimeout( later, wait );                if ( callNow ) func.apply( context, args );            };        }        const debouncedTriggerPostRender = debounce( function() {            triggerPostRender();        }, 200 );        if ( visibilityTestDiv && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent === null ) {            const observer = new MutationObserver( ( mutations ) => {                mutations.forEach( ( mutation ) => {                    if ( mutation.type === 'attributes' && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent !== null ) {                        debouncedTriggerPostRender();                        observer.disconnect();                    }                });            });            observer.observe( document.body, {                attributes: true,                childList: false,                subtree: true,                attributeFilter: [ 'style', 'class' ],            });        } else {            triggerPostRender();        }    } );} );\n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"featured-news\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n    <div class=\"featured-news-wrapper my-30\">\n      <h2 class=\"has-text-align-center has-white-color has-blue-background-color has-text-color has-background has-custom-lineheight mb-0 pb-0 mt-0 pt-0\" style=\"line-height:2\">Featured News Releases<\/h2>\n      <div style=\"padding: 22px 15px 22px;\" class=\"wp-block-group has-white-background-color has-background\">\n\t                      <ul>\n\t\t                              <li class=\"wp-block-post post-1491 news type-news status-publish format-standard hentry\">\n                      <h3 style=\"font-size: 18px;\" class=\"wp-block-post-title\">\n                        <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tampabaywater.org\/news\/tampa-bay-region-enters-extreme-regional-water-supply-shortage-tampa-bay-water-asking-residents-to-step-up-and-save-water\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\">Tampa Bay Region Enters Extreme Regional Water Supply Shortage - Tampa Bay Water Asking Residents to Step Up and Save Water<\/a>\n                      <\/h3>\n                      <div class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt\">\n                        <p class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt__excerpt\">News Release For Immediate Release Contact: Brandon Moorebmoore@tampabaywater.org(727) 791-2304 CLEARWATER, Fla. (March 5, 2026) \u2013 Due to persistent severe drought conditions, the Tampa Bay region is facing one of the...<\/p>\n                        <p class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt__more-text\">\n                          <a class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt__more-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.tampabaywater.org\/news\/tampa-bay-region-enters-extreme-regional-water-supply-shortage-tampa-bay-water-asking-residents-to-step-up-and-save-water\/\">Read More<\/a>\n                        <\/p>\n                      <\/div>\n                    <\/li>\n\t\t                              <li class=\"wp-block-post post-1491 news type-news status-publish format-standard hentry\">\n                      <h3 style=\"font-size: 18px;\" class=\"wp-block-post-title\">\n                        <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tampabaywater.org\/news\/tampa-bay-water-breaks-ground-on-surface-water-treatment-plant-expansion-181-million-investment-strengthens-reliable-sustainable-regional-drinking-water-supply\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\">Tampa Bay Water Breaks Ground on Surface Water Treatment Plant Expansion - $181 Million Investment Strengthens Reliable, Sustainable Regional Drinking Water Supply<\/a>\n                      <\/h3>\n                      <div class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt\">\n                        <p class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt__excerpt\">News Release For Immediate Release Contact: Brandon Moorebmoore@tampabaywater.org(727) 791-2304&nbsp; CLEARWATER, Fla. (March 2, 2026) \u2014 Tampa Bay Water broke ground on the expansion of its Tampa Bay Regional Surface Water...<\/p>\n                        <p class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt__more-text\">\n                          <a class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt__more-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.tampabaywater.org\/news\/tampa-bay-water-breaks-ground-on-surface-water-treatment-plant-expansion-181-million-investment-strengthens-reliable-sustainable-regional-drinking-water-supply\/\">Read More<\/a>\n                        <\/p>\n                      <\/div>\n                    <\/li>\n\t\t                              <li class=\"wp-block-post post-1491 news type-news status-publish format-standard hentry\">\n                      <h3 style=\"font-size: 18px;\" class=\"wp-block-post-title\">\n                        <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tampabaywater.org\/news\/watering-restrictions-take-effect-amid-severe-drought-warning\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\">Watering Restrictions Take Effect\u00a0Amid\u00a0Severe Drought Warning\u00a0<\/a>\n                      <\/h3>\n                      <div class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt\">\n                        <p class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt__excerpt\">News Release For Immediate Release Contact: Brandon Moorebmoore@tampabaywater.org(727) 791-2304 CLEARWATER, Fla. (Feb. 5, 2026) \u2013 Tampa Bay Water\u00a0warns\u00a0of worsening drought conditions as lower-than-normal rainfall and streamflow continue across the region.\u00a0The...<\/p>\n                        <p class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt__more-text\">\n                          <a class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt__more-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.tampabaywater.org\/news\/watering-restrictions-take-effect-amid-severe-drought-warning\/\">Read More<\/a>\n                        <\/p>\n                      <\/div>\n                    <\/li>\n\t\t                              <li class=\"wp-block-post post-1491 news type-news status-publish format-standard hentry\">\n                      <h3 style=\"font-size: 18px;\" class=\"wp-block-post-title\">\n                        <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tampabaywater.org\/news\/from-kayaks-to-classrooms-tampa-bay-water-invests-in-seven-water-education-projects\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\">From Kayaks to Classrooms, Tampa Bay Water Invests in Seven Water Education Projects<\/a>\n                      <\/h3>\n                      <div class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt\">\n                        <p class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt__excerpt\">News Release For Immediate Release Contact: Brandon Moorebmoore@tampabaywater.org(727) 791-2304 CLEARWATER, Fla. (Jan. 26, 2026) \u2013 Tampa Bay Water announced funding for seven projects through its 2026 Water Conservation and Protection...<\/p>\n                        <p class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt__more-text\">\n                          <a class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt__more-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.tampabaywater.org\/news\/from-kayaks-to-classrooms-tampa-bay-water-invests-in-seven-water-education-projects\/\">Read More<\/a>\n                        <\/p>\n                      <\/div>\n                    <\/li>\n\t\t                        <\/ul>\n\t\t        \t              <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group container\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-style-default my-30 is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column px-15 is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" id=\"tbw-news\">\n<h2 id=\"tampa-bay-water-in-the-news\" class=\"wp-block-heading has-blue-color has-text-color\" style=\"font-size:24px\">Tampa Bay Water in the News<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group my-15 overflow-scroll--500\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">March 19, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.foxweather.com\/watch\/fmc-7ir5bcfp34xo9obv\">Tampa Bay faces the worst water shortage in decades<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A historic water shortage is impacting Tampa, Florida. Officials have issued a stage 3 extreme regional water supply shortage around the city, and there is no sign of relief anytime soon.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">March 16, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/spotonflorida.com\/west-central-florida\/6017667\/south-hillsborough-pipeline-project.html\">South Hillsborough pipeline project aims to meet region's growing water demand as construction gets underway<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tampa Bay Water is building a 26-mile pipeline through South Hillsborough County to meet the region's growing demand for drinking water, with construction underway at multiple locations.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">March 16, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tampabay28.com\/news\/region-hillsborough\/south-hillsborough-pipeline-project-aims-to-meet-regions-growing-water-demand-as-construction-gets-underway\">South Hillsborough pipeline project aims to meet region's growing water demand as construction gets underway<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tampa Bay Water is building a 26-mile pipeline through South Hillsborough County to meet the region's growing demand for drinking water, with construction underway at multiple locations.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">March 12, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.constructionowners.com\/news\/181m-tampa-water-plant-expansion-begins\">$181M Tampa Water Plant Expansion Begins<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A major water infrastructure upgrade is underway in Tampa as crews begin work on a $181 million expansion of the Tampa Bay Regional Surface Water Treatment Plant.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">March 10, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.constructiondive.com\/news\/tampa-water-treatment-plant-expansion-breaks-ground\/814287\/\">$181M Tampa water treatment plant expansion breaks ground<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Construction is already underway on the Tampa Bay Regional Surface Water Treatment Plant and will continue through 2028, according to a news release.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">March 9, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tampabay28.com\/news\/region-pinellas\/tarpon-springs-water-leak-raises-concerns-for-residents-amid-regions-worst-drought-in-50-years\">Tarpon Springs water leak raises concerns for residents amid region's worst drought in 50 years<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A water leak in a Tarpon Springs neighborhood left residents frustrated after the city took more than two days to fix the problem.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">March 9, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wusf.org\/environment\/2026-03-09\/tampa-bay-water-stops-siphoning-water-from-local-rivers-due-to-drought\">Tampa Bay Water stops siphoning from local rivers due to the drought<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The ongoing drought isn't getting any better. Tampa Bay Water is issuing what it calls a \"Stage 3 Extreme Regional Supply Shortage.\"<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">March 9, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/patch.com\/florida\/southtampa\/amp\/33762991\/severe-drought-dries-up-tampa-bay-s-main-water-supply-officials\">Severe Drought Dries Up Tampa Bay\u2019s Main Water Supply<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tampa Bay Water urges conservation as the region\u2019s main drinking water supply dries up during severe drought conditions.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">March 6, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/nationaltoday.com\/us\/fl\/spring-hill\/news\/2026\/03\/06\/tampa-bay-drought-threatens-new-port-richeys-tap-water\/\">Tampa Bay Drought Threatens New Port Richey's Tap Water<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Regional water utility warns of major changes to water supply as key rivers dry up<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">March 6, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/baynews9.com\/fl\/tampa\/news\/2026\/03\/06\/tampa-bay-facing-major-water-shortage-amid-drought\">Tampa Bay region facing major water shortage amid drought<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Tampa Bay region is facing one of the worst water shortages in 50 years, and&nbsp;Tampa Bay Water&nbsp;officials say they can no longer take water from rivers to use for the drinking water supply.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">March 6, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wfla.com\/video\/tampa-bay-water-urges-conservation-as-severe-drought-strains-regional-water-supply\/11585126\/\">Tampa Bay Water urges conservation as severe drought strains regional water supply<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tampa Bay Water officials are urging residents to conserve water as the region faces a severe drought and a critical drinking water shortage.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">March 6, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mysuncoast.com\/2026\/03\/06\/tampa-bay-water-triggers-stage-3-water-shortage-amid-historic-drought\/\">Tampa Bay Water triggers Stage 3 water shortage amid historic drought<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tampa Bay Water declared an \u201cextreme Stage 3 water supply shortage\u201d Friday, citing low rainfall, low river flows and projected low levels in the region\u2019s reservoir.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">March 6, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fox13news.com\/news\/extreme-water-shortage-triggered-tampa-bay-what-residents-need-know\">'Extreme' water shortage triggered in Tampa Bay area: What residents need to know<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Tampa Bay area is experiencing one of its worst water supply shortages in decades, with drought conditions now classified as \"extreme.\"<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">March 6, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.newsweek.com\/dire-tampa-florida-water-supply-warning-issued-as-millions-told-to-reduce-showers-11634751\">Dire Water Supply Warning Issued as Millions Told to Reduce Showers<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Residents across the Tampa Bay region in&nbsp;Florida&nbsp;are being&nbsp;urged to immediately cut back on their water use<a href=\"https:\/\/www.newsweek.com\/emergency-declared-texas-as-public-water-supply-failure-imminent-11629350\">,<\/a>&nbsp;including shortening showers, after officials triggered a Stage 3 Extreme Regional&nbsp;Water&nbsp;Supply Shortage, one of the most severe shortages the area has faced in at least 50 years.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">March 6, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.aol.com\/news\/extreme-water-shortage-triggered-tampa-234723982.html\">'Extreme' water shortage triggered in Tampa Bay area: What residents need to know<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Tampa Bay area is experiencing one of its worst water supply shortages in decades, with drought conditions now classified as \"extreme.\"<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">March 6, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wtsp.com\/video\/news\/tampa-bay-water-dangerous-low-water-levels-alafia-river\/67-6f969443-46ff-4820-b519-36f812f9e873\">Tampa Bay Water sends a dire warning after dangerous low water levels in the Alafia River<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tampa Bay Water will hold a news conference on Friday to address how much the river has dropped.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">March 6, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wfla.com\/news\/hillsborough-county\/tampa-bay-rivers-no-longer-source-for-drinking-water-due-to-severe-drought\/\">Alafia River no longer a source for drinking water due to severe drought<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Due to persistent severe drought conditions, Tampa Bay Water announced that water from the Alafia River is no longer viable as a source for the drinking water supply in the surrounding area.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">March 5, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tampabay28.com\/news\/region-hillsborough\/tampa-bay-water-escalates-to-phase-3-extreme-shortage-as-alafia-river-runs-too-low-to-pump\">Tampa Bay Water escalates to phase 3 extreme shortage as Alafia River runs too low to pump<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tampa Bay Water officials declared a phase 3 extreme water shortage Thursday as the region faces one of the worst water supply crises in 50 years, urging residents to cut back on irrigation and follow one-day-per-week watering restrictions.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">March 5, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/957wdae.iheart.com\/featured\/florida-news\/content\/2026-03-05-tampa-bay-rivers-no-longer-used-for-drinking-water-amid-severe-drought\/\">Tampa Bay Rivers No Longer Used For Drinking Water Amid Severe Drought<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Severe drought conditions in the Tampa Bay region have forced water managers to stop drawing drinking water from local rivers and rely on alternative sources.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">March 5, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mysuncoast.com\/2026\/03\/05\/tampa-bays-main-source-drinking-water-says-local-rivers-are-drying-up\/\">Main source of Tampa Bay\u2019s drinking water says local rivers are drying up<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In the wake of the current drought, the utility that supplies drinking water to most of Tampa Bay says it will make a \u201cmajor regional water supply announcement\u201d Friday.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">March 5, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mysuncoast.com\/2026\/03\/05\/tampa-bays-main-source-drinking-water-says-local-rivers-are-drying-up\/\">Main source of Tampa Bay\u2019s drinking water says local rivers are drying up<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In the wake of the current drought, the utility that supplies drinking water to most of Tampa Bay says it will make a \u201cmajor regional water supply announcement\u201d Friday.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">March 5, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tampabay.com\/news\/environment\/2026\/03\/05\/florida-drought-watering-restrictions-shortage\/\">How bad is our drought? Tampa Bay under one of worst water shortages in 50 years<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Sparse rains, trickling river flows and a quiet hurricane season have fueled a worsening drought.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">March 3, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/smartwatermagazine.com\/news\/smart-water-magazine\/tampa-bay-water-launches-181-million-regional-surface-water-treatment\">Tampa Bay Water launches $181 million Regional Surface Water Treatment Plant expansion<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tampa Bay Water&nbsp;has officially begun construction on a&nbsp;major expansion of its&nbsp;Tampa Bay Regional Surface Water Treatment Plant, marking a&nbsp;$181 million&nbsp;investment aimed at reinforcing long-term drinking water security for Florida\u2019s west-central Gulf Coast.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">March 3, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.businessobserverfl.com\/news\/2026\/mar\/03\/tampa-bay-water-breaks-ground-plant-expansion\/\">Tampa Bay Water breaks ground on $181M plant expansion<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tampa Bay Water is expanding its Surface Water Treatment Plant to deliver 12.5 million gallons more water each day.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">March 3, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bizjournals.com\/tampabay\/news\/2026\/03\/03\/tampa-bay-water-expansion.html.\">Tampa Bay Water breaks ground on $181M surface water treatment plant expansion<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The region's water needs are growing rapidly, and Tampa Bay Water is timing its plant expansion carefully to add millions of gallons of daily capacity exactly when it's needed most.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">March 2, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wateronline.com\/doc\/tampa-bay-water-veolia-break-ground-on-surface-water-treatment-plant-expansion-0001\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Tampa Bay Water, Veolia Break Ground On Surface Water Treatment Plant Expansion<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">$181M Investment Strengthens Reliable, Sustainable Regional Drinking Water Supply<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">March 2, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/tbbwmag.com\/2026\/03\/02\/tampa-bay-water-181-million-plant-expansion\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Tampa Bay Water starts $181 million plant expansion<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The expansion adds 12.5 mgd by 2028 under existing river withdrawal permits.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">February 10, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lakerlutznews.com\/watering-restrictions-issued-amid-severe-drought-warning\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Watering restrictions issued amid severe drought warning<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tampa Bay Water warns of worsening drought conditions as lower-than-normal rainfall and streamflow continue across the region.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">February 10, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wmnf.org\/increased-watering-restrictions-as-drought-worsens\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Increased watering restrictions as drought worsens<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tampa Bay Water announced a Stage 2 drought warning last week after the region recorded an average rainfall deficit of 10.84 inches over the past 12 months. That\u2019s more than 10 million gallons per day.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">February 8, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.yahoo.com\/news\/articles\/officials-drastic-actions-us-region-054500028.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Officials take drastic actions as US region faces water supply crisis: 'We can cut back'<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One Florida community is asking its residents to dial back on their water usage as a lengthy drought grips the region.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">February 8, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.yahoo.com\/news\/articles\/hillsborough-county-residents-told-conserve-190003556.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Hillsborough County residents told to conserve water as drought intensifies<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Starting Sunday, Hillsborough County residents will have to follow a new lawn-watering schedule because of escalating drought conditions.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">February 6, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fox13news.com\/news\/severe-drought-conditions-prompt-stage-2-drought-warning\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Severe drought conditions prompt a 'Stage 2 Drought Warning' for Tampa Bay area<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Much of the Tampa Bay region is facing severe or extreme drought conditions, triggering a Stage 2 Drought Warning for the area.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">February 6, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cltampa.com\/news\/potentially-dangerous-levels-of-forever-chemicals-found-across-tampa-bay-region\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Potentially dangerous levels of \u2018forever chemicals\u2019 found across Tampa Bay region<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Researchers documented levels of PFAS that far exceed the EPA recommendations in Tampa Bay\u2019s water, fish and sediments.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">February 5, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wfla.com\/video\/tampa-area-in-stage-2-drought-warning-water-restrictions-will-be-implemented\/11496160\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Tampa area in Stage 2 drought warning, water restrictions will be implemented<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tampa Bay Water issued a stage 2 drought warning, starting February 8th, Tampa Bay residents will only be able to water their yards once a week.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">February 5, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tbnweekly.com\/clearwater_beacon\/article_b756a548-8f54-4e86-8e0e-96a534336a38.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Around town: Clearwater news briefs<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tampa Bay Water has announced funding for seven projects through its 2026 Water Conservation and Protection Mini Grant Program.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">February 5, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wtsp.com\/article\/news\/local\/new-water-restrictions-take-effect-tampa-bay-region-severe-drought-warning\/67-d2f04222-0560-4612-a459-6802d40d8af7\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">New water restrictions to take effect in Tampa Bay region due to severe drought warning<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tampa Bay Water is asking residents of Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas counties to do their part.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">February 4, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cltampa.com\/arts\/st-pete-science-festival-marinequest-happens-this-weekend\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Tampa Bay Water to test emergency sirens Wednesday morning<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tampa Bay Water (TBW) said it will be conducting a test of its emergency siren system at the C.W. Bill Young Regional Reservoir on Wednesday morning.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">February 3, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cltampa.com\/arts\/st-pete-science-festival-marinequest-happens-this-weekend\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">St. Pete Science Festival, Marinequest, happens this weekend<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Both events are free, with a free shuttle provided from the SouthCore parking garage to the waterfront events.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">February 3, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.stpetersburg.usf.edu\/news\/2026\/st-petersburg-science-festival-marinequest-return-to-spark-curiosity.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">St. Petersburg Science Festival, MarineQuest return to spark curiosity and spotlight careers shaping Tampa Bay\u2019s future<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Exciting hands-on experiments, interactive exhibits and direct connections to emerging careers will take center stage at this year\u2019s St. Petersburg Science Festival and MarineQuest.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">February 1, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tampabay.com\/news\/hillsborough\/2026\/01\/31\/500-million-hillsborough-drinking-water-project-underway\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">$500 million Hillsborough drinking water project underway<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tampa Bay Water says the South Hillsborough Pipeline will deliver 65 million gallons of drinking water daily.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">January 28, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/citizenportal.ai\/articles\/6846358\/Pinellas-County\/Florida\/Tampa-Bay-Water-says-region-has-enough-supply-now-but-plans-expansions-and-PFAS-fixes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ospreyobserver.com\/2026\/01\/year-in-review-updates-on-the-top-stories-from-2025-important-public-meetings-coming-for-south-county-pipeline-project\/?utm_source=rss&amp;utm_medium=rss&amp;utm_campaign=year-in-review-updates-on-the-top-stories-from-2025-important-public-meetings-coming-for-south-county-pipeline-project\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tampabay.com\/news\/environment\/2026\/01\/28\/drought-water-shortage-watering-restrictions-pinellas-hillsborough\/?utm_source=facebook&amp;utm_medium=social&amp;utm_campaign=SocialNewsDesk&amp;fbclid=IwY2xjawPoeHhleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBicmlkETFmaXpJQTRPZzFBUTFvSGpHc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHgGFG-l0PRiTVexcc4-vbOU453wq5Bt6hBnP6kUhvHuLhK8SCFZ3pLQUzFQP_aem_qSc02aDXD3nJObGGfdi-sg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">As Tampa Bay\u2019s drought continues, officials limit watering to one day a week<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The \u201csevere\u201d water shortage order will take effect in early February.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">January 28, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/citizenportal.ai\/articles\/6846358\/Pinellas-County\/Florida\/Tampa-Bay-Water-says-region-has-enough-supply-now-but-plans-expansions-and-PFAS-fixes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ospreyobserver.com\/2026\/01\/year-in-review-updates-on-the-top-stories-from-2025-important-public-meetings-coming-for-south-county-pipeline-project\/?utm_source=rss&amp;utm_medium=rss&amp;utm_campaign=year-in-review-updates-on-the-top-stories-from-2025-important-public-meetings-coming-for-south-county-pipeline-project\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wfla.com\/video\/tips-to-conserve-water-according-to-tampa-bay-water\/11468965\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Tips to conserve water, according to Tampa Bay Water<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tampa Bay Water gave tips on how to conserve water.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">January 28, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/citizenportal.ai\/articles\/6846358\/Pinellas-County\/Florida\/Tampa-Bay-Water-says-region-has-enough-supply-now-but-plans-expansions-and-PFAS-fixes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ospreyobserver.com\/2026\/01\/year-in-review-updates-on-the-top-stories-from-2025-important-public-meetings-coming-for-south-county-pipeline-project\/?utm_source=rss&amp;utm_medium=rss&amp;utm_campaign=year-in-review-updates-on-the-top-stories-from-2025-important-public-meetings-coming-for-south-county-pipeline-project\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/baynews9.com\/fl\/tampa\/news\/2026\/01\/28\/tunneling-work-underway-for-major-water-pipeline-serving-southern-hillsborough-county-\">Tunneling work underway for major water pipeline serving southern Hillsborough County<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tampa Bay Water&nbsp;has officially broken ground on a massive infrastructure project designed to keep up with rapid growth in southern Hillsborough County: a 26-mile underground water pipeline expected to deliver up to 65 million gallons of water per day.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">January 27, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/citizenportal.ai\/articles\/6846358\/Pinellas-County\/Florida\/Tampa-Bay-Water-says-region-has-enough-supply-now-but-plans-expansions-and-PFAS-fixes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ospreyobserver.com\/2026\/01\/year-in-review-updates-on-the-top-stories-from-2025-important-public-meetings-coming-for-south-county-pipeline-project\/?utm_source=rss&amp;utm_medium=rss&amp;utm_campaign=year-in-review-updates-on-the-top-stories-from-2025-important-public-meetings-coming-for-south-county-pipeline-project\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.suncoastnews.com\/news\/hernando\/swiftmud-declares-modified-phase-ii-water-shortage\/article_cecb7598-1c1e-412f-a38c-075552cf0ffa.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Swiftmud declares modified phase II water shortage<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">All residents under one-day-per-week watering restrictions.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">January 27, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/citizenportal.ai\/articles\/6846358\/Pinellas-County\/Florida\/Tampa-Bay-Water-says-region-has-enough-supply-now-but-plans-expansions-and-PFAS-fixes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ospreyobserver.com\/2026\/01\/year-in-review-updates-on-the-top-stories-from-2025-important-public-meetings-coming-for-south-county-pipeline-project\/?utm_source=rss&amp;utm_medium=rss&amp;utm_campaign=year-in-review-updates-on-the-top-stories-from-2025-important-public-meetings-coming-for-south-county-pipeline-project\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fox13news.com\/news\/swfwmd-orders-water-conservation-drought-hits\">Drought restrictions ordered for Bay Area by SWFWMD with water supplies down by 25%<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The main restriction is to reduce lawn watering to once a week if your municipality isn't already under that restriction.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">January 26, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/citizenportal.ai\/articles\/6846358\/Pinellas-County\/Florida\/Tampa-Bay-Water-says-region-has-enough-supply-now-but-plans-expansions-and-PFAS-fixes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ospreyobserver.com\/2026\/01\/year-in-review-updates-on-the-top-stories-from-2025-important-public-meetings-coming-for-south-county-pipeline-project\/?utm_source=rss&amp;utm_medium=rss&amp;utm_campaign=year-in-review-updates-on-the-top-stories-from-2025-important-public-meetings-coming-for-south-county-pipeline-project\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wusf.org\/weather\/2026-01-26\/outdoor-watering-restrictions-expected-to-be-tightened-lingering-drought\">Outdoor watering restrictions are expected to be tightened in face of lingering drought<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">SWFWMD is expected to go into Phase 2 restrictions, reducing lawn watering to once a week for properties of less than 1 acre.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">January 22, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/citizenportal.ai\/articles\/6846358\/Pinellas-County\/Florida\/Tampa-Bay-Water-says-region-has-enough-supply-now-but-plans-expansions-and-PFAS-fixes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ospreyobserver.com\/2026\/01\/year-in-review-updates-on-the-top-stories-from-2025-important-public-meetings-coming-for-south-county-pipeline-project\/?utm_source=rss&amp;utm_medium=rss&amp;utm_campaign=year-in-review-updates-on-the-top-stories-from-2025-important-public-meetings-coming-for-south-county-pipeline-project\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/floridaphoenix.com\/2026\/01\/22\/lots-of-new-florida-developments-lined-up-but-what-will-they-drink\/\">Lots of new Florida developments lined up, but what will they drink?<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The state\u2019s water supply is being strained by drought, over-pumping, and paving over recharge areas.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">January 20, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/citizenportal.ai\/articles\/6846358\/Pinellas-County\/Florida\/Tampa-Bay-Water-says-region-has-enough-supply-now-but-plans-expansions-and-PFAS-fixes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ospreyobserver.com\/2026\/01\/year-in-review-updates-on-the-top-stories-from-2025-important-public-meetings-coming-for-south-county-pipeline-project\/?utm_source=rss&amp;utm_medium=rss&amp;utm_campaign=year-in-review-updates-on-the-top-stories-from-2025-important-public-meetings-coming-for-south-county-pipeline-project\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tampabay28.com\/news\/region-hillsborough\/south-hillsborough-pipeline-projects-underground-tunnel-system-should-help-minimize-traffic-impacts\">South Hillsborough Pipeline project's underground tunnel system should help minimize traffic impacts<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As areas grow, change happens and construction seems inevitable. But as plans began for the South Hillsborough Pipeline Project, traffic was a key consideration.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">January 14, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/citizenportal.ai\/articles\/6846358\/Pinellas-County\/Florida\/Tampa-Bay-Water-says-region-has-enough-supply-now-but-plans-expansions-and-PFAS-fixes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ospreyobserver.com\/2026\/01\/year-in-review-updates-on-the-top-stories-from-2025-important-public-meetings-coming-for-south-county-pipeline-project\/?utm_source=rss&amp;utm_medium=rss&amp;utm_campaign=year-in-review-updates-on-the-top-stories-from-2025-important-public-meetings-coming-for-south-county-pipeline-project\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/finance.yahoo.com\/news\/nwpx-infrastructure-nwpx-curved-pipeline-091014798.html\">Is NWPX Infrastructure\u2019s (NWPX) New Curved Pipeline Joint Quietly Reframing Its Urban Projects Strategy?<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In early January 2026, Northwest Pipe Company announced the first commercial use of its patent-pending Permalok Radial Bending Joint technology on Tampa Bay Water\u2019s South Hillsborough Pipeline project, supplying 5,764 linear feet of steel casing pipe for 18 underground crossings.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">January 12, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/citizenportal.ai\/articles\/6846358\/Pinellas-County\/Florida\/Tampa-Bay-Water-says-region-has-enough-supply-now-but-plans-expansions-and-PFAS-fixes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ospreyobserver.com\/2026\/01\/year-in-review-updates-on-the-top-stories-from-2025-important-public-meetings-coming-for-south-county-pipeline-project\/?utm_source=rss&amp;utm_medium=rss&amp;utm_campaign=year-in-review-updates-on-the-top-stories-from-2025-important-public-meetings-coming-for-south-county-pipeline-project\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.acciona.com\/updates\/articles\/acciona-develops-predictive-ai-system-ensure-water-quality-treatment-plants\">ACCIONA develops predictive AI system to ensure water quality in treatment plants<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A new platform is being tested at the Tampa Bay desalination plant (USA) to predict critical water quality parameters and improve resilience at the facility.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">January 8, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/citizenportal.ai\/articles\/6846358\/Pinellas-County\/Florida\/Tampa-Bay-Water-says-region-has-enough-supply-now-but-plans-expansions-and-PFAS-fixes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ospreyobserver.com\/2026\/01\/year-in-review-updates-on-the-top-stories-from-2025-important-public-meetings-coming-for-south-county-pipeline-project\/?utm_source=rss&amp;utm_medium=rss&amp;utm_campaign=year-in-review-updates-on-the-top-stories-from-2025-important-public-meetings-coming-for-south-county-pipeline-project\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.prnewswire.com\/news-releases\/northwest-pipe-companys-innovative-radial-bending-joint-makes-its-florida-debut-in-water-pipeline-project-302656736.html\">Northwest Pipe Company's Innovative Radial Bending Joint Makes its Florida Debut in Water Pipeline Project<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Patent-pending Permalok<sup>\u00ae<\/sup>&nbsp;technology enables curved trenchless installations, reducing costs and construction impacts.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">January 6, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/citizenportal.ai\/articles\/6846358\/Pinellas-County\/Florida\/Tampa-Bay-Water-says-region-has-enough-supply-now-but-plans-expansions-and-PFAS-fixes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ospreyobserver.com\/2026\/01\/year-in-review-updates-on-the-top-stories-from-2025-important-public-meetings-coming-for-south-county-pipeline-project\/?utm_source=rss&amp;utm_medium=rss&amp;utm_campaign=year-in-review-updates-on-the-top-stories-from-2025-important-public-meetings-coming-for-south-county-pipeline-project\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.constructiondive.com\/news\/garney-tampa-florida-water-project\/808805\/\">Garney breaks ground on $505.7M Florida water project<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Kansas City, Missouri-based contractor expects to place the 26-mile South Hillsborough potable water pipeline into service by the end of 2028.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">January 2, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/citizenportal.ai\/articles\/6846358\/Pinellas-County\/Florida\/Tampa-Bay-Water-says-region-has-enough-supply-now-but-plans-expansions-and-PFAS-fixes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ospreyobserver.com\/2026\/01\/year-in-review-updates-on-the-top-stories-from-2025-important-public-meetings-coming-for-south-county-pipeline-project\/?utm_source=rss&amp;utm_medium=rss&amp;utm_campaign=year-in-review-updates-on-the-top-stories-from-2025-important-public-meetings-coming-for-south-county-pipeline-project\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/waterfm.com\/garney-breaks-ground-on-tampas-largest-pipe-project-to-date\/\">Year In Review \u2013 Updates On The Top Stories From 2025: Important Public Meetings Coming For South County Pipeline Project<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Construction for the South Hillsborough Pipeline started at FishHawk Creek and at the intersection of Kings and Bloomingdale avenues.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">December 29, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/citizenportal.ai\/articles\/6846358\/Pinellas-County\/Florida\/Tampa-Bay-Water-says-region-has-enough-supply-now-but-plans-expansions-and-PFAS-fixes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/waterfm.com\/garney-breaks-ground-on-tampas-largest-pipe-project-to-date\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/waterfm.com\/garney-breaks-ground-on-tampas-largest-pipe-project-to-date\/\">Garney breaks ground on Tampa Bay Water\u2019s largest pipe project to date<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Garney has broken ground on Tampa Bay Water\u2019s South Hillsborough Pipeline. The new 26-mile potable water pipeline has a capacity of 65 million gallons per day (MGD).<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">December 16, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/citizenportal.ai\/articles\/6846358\/Pinellas-County\/Florida\/Tampa-Bay-Water-says-region-has-enough-supply-now-but-plans-expansions-and-PFAS-fixes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fox13news.com\/video\/1757151\">Massive pipeline project in Hillsborough County<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A massive multi-year project just got underway in Hillsborough County to help carry drinking water 26 miles to a new booming area.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">December 15, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/citizenportal.ai\/articles\/6846358\/Pinellas-County\/Florida\/Tampa-Bay-Water-says-region-has-enough-supply-now-but-plans-expansions-and-PFAS-fixes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bizjournals.com\/tampabay\/news\/2025\/12\/15\/construction-begins-on-26-mile-water-pipeline.html\">Construction begins on 26-mile water pipeline in Hillsborough<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As Tampa Bay Water begins one of the largest construction projects in the region\u2019s history, commuters should be prepared for traffic delays along the 26-mile route.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">December 8, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/citizenportal.ai\/articles\/6846358\/Pinellas-County\/Florida\/Tampa-Bay-Water-says-region-has-enough-supply-now-but-plans-expansions-and-PFAS-fixes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wtsp.com\/article\/news\/local\/hillsboroughcounty\/drought-conditions-tampa-bay-water-reservoir-use-early\/67-cc519ec3-15a6-44f8-8541-891fe6105675\">Despite weekend showers Tampa Bay Water pulls early from reservoir<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A Tampa Bay Water official said that over the last three months, we didn't get enough water, since the reservoir also plays a crucial role in replenishing sources.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">December 3, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/citizenportal.ai\/articles\/6846358\/Pinellas-County\/Florida\/Tampa-Bay-Water-says-region-has-enough-supply-now-but-plans-expansions-and-PFAS-fixes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fox13news.com\/news\/city-tampa-buying-water-earlier-than-normal-meet-demand-during-shortage\">City of Tampa buying water earlier than normal to meet demand during shortage<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The city of Tampa gets most of its water from the Hillsborough River, which isn\u2019t very full right now because it wasn\u2019t a very rainy \"rainy season.\"<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">November 26, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/citizenportal.ai\/articles\/6846358\/Pinellas-County\/Florida\/Tampa-Bay-Water-says-region-has-enough-supply-now-but-plans-expansions-and-PFAS-fixes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.businessobserverfl.com\/news\/2025\/nov\/26\/construction-south-hillsborough-pipeline\/\">Construction underway on $505M, 26-mile South Hillsborough Pipeline<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The new pipeline will deliver clean drinking water throughout the region, from Brandon to Lithia and the Wimauma\/Balm area, once completed in 2028.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">November 25, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/citizenportal.ai\/articles\/6846358\/Pinellas-County\/Florida\/Tampa-Bay-Water-says-region-has-enough-supply-now-but-plans-expansions-and-PFAS-fixes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tampabay.com\/news\/environment\/2025\/11\/25\/tampa-bay-florida-drought-water-shortages-hillsborough-pinellas-pasco\/\">Tampa Bay is experiencing a moderate drought. Here\u2019s what to know<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A large metal box lies far off the public trail in a New Port Richey wilderness preserve, tucked away.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">November 25, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/citizenportal.ai\/articles\/6846358\/Pinellas-County\/Florida\/Tampa-Bay-Water-says-region-has-enough-supply-now-but-plans-expansions-and-PFAS-fixes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wtsp.com\/article\/news\/local\/hillsboroughcounty\/hillsborough-county-burn-ban-wildfire-risk-drought\/67-9d94db4d-8494-40c8-833f-9529690cb2d3\">Hillsborough County issues burn ban as wildfire risk and drought deepen<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The ban prohibits all outdoor open burning, including fire pits, fireworks and sparklers \u2014 a holiday favorite many families will have to go without this week.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">November 20, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/citizenportal.ai\/articles\/6846358\/Pinellas-County\/Florida\/Tampa-Bay-Water-says-region-has-enough-supply-now-but-plans-expansions-and-PFAS-fixes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/baysoundings.com\/tampa-bay-water-explores-new-water-sources-as-regions-population-grows\/\">Tampa Bay Water explores new water sources as region\u2019s population grows<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tampa Bay Water is evaluating a series of proposals that would provide water for the anticipated half-million new residents who are expected to move into the region by 2043.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">November 19, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/citizenportal.ai\/articles\/6846358\/Pinellas-County\/Florida\/Tampa-Bay-Water-says-region-has-enough-supply-now-but-plans-expansions-and-PFAS-fixes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/baynews9.com\/fl\/tampa\/news\/2025\/11\/20\/tampa-bay-water-wise\">Tampa Bay Water reaches goal of saving one million gallons per day<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tampa Bay Water began its Water Wise program 5 years ago, with a goal of conserving one million gallons per day, which the agency reached for the first time last month, according to Demand Management Program Manager Amelia Brown.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">November 18, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/citizenportal.ai\/articles\/6846358\/Pinellas-County\/Florida\/Tampa-Bay-Water-says-region-has-enough-supply-now-but-plans-expansions-and-PFAS-fixes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.yahoo.com\/news\/articles\/southwest-florida-water-management-district-021502785.html\">Southwest Florida Water Management District announces water shortage, no restrictions for now<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Southwest Florida Water Management District is putting counties and homeowners on notice by issuing a phase one&nbsp;water shortage.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">November 18, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/citizenportal.ai\/articles\/6846358\/Pinellas-County\/Florida\/Tampa-Bay-Water-says-region-has-enough-supply-now-but-plans-expansions-and-PFAS-fixes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gulfcoastnewsnow.com\/article\/swfl-water-shortage-desoto-charlotte\/69476669\">SWFL Water Management District declares Phase 1 shortage; DeSoto, parts of Charlotte affected<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Southwest Florida Water Management District is declaring a Phase One water shortage due to dry conditions throughout the region.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">November 18, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/citizenportal.ai\/articles\/6846358\/Pinellas-County\/Florida\/Tampa-Bay-Water-says-region-has-enough-supply-now-but-plans-expansions-and-PFAS-fixes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fox13news.com\/news\/southwest-florida-water-management-district-announces-water-shortage-no-restrictions-now\">Southwest Florida Water Management District announces water shortage, no restrictions for now<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Southwest Florida Water Management District issued a phase one water shortage.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">November 18, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/citizenportal.ai\/articles\/6846358\/Pinellas-County\/Florida\/Tampa-Bay-Water-says-region-has-enough-supply-now-but-plans-expansions-and-PFAS-fixes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wusf.org\/environment\/2025-11-18\/first-phase-of-water-restrictions-to-take-effect-tampa-bay\">First phase of water restrictions to take effect across the greater Tampa Bay region<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Starting Dec. 1, 2025, \"wasteful and unnecessary\" water usage across areas in Southwest Florida will be prohibited.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">November 18, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/citizenportal.ai\/articles\/6846358\/Pinellas-County\/Florida\/Tampa-Bay-Water-says-region-has-enough-supply-now-but-plans-expansions-and-PFAS-fixes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.suncoastnews.com\/news\/district-declares-phase-i-water-shortage\/article_2006e68c-896f-4c48-b0f2-0c60e62709eb.html\">District declares Phase I water shortage<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Residents asked to conserve by following their local watering restrictions and checking their irrigation systems and timers.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">November 13, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/citizenportal.ai\/articles\/6846358\/Pinellas-County\/Florida\/Tampa-Bay-Water-says-region-has-enough-supply-now-but-plans-expansions-and-PFAS-fixes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/citizenportal.ai\/Search\/View?dp=1&amp;key=6842584-7ea4491ff8e0bd96afbe7f90076f65a6&amp;start=287&amp;end=864\">Tampa Bay Water says region has enough supply now but plans expansions and PFAS fixes<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Chuck Carden, general manager of Tampa Bay Water, told the Pinellas County Commission on Thursday that the regional water supplier currently delivers about 209 million gallons a day to member governments and that Pinellas County purchases roughly 50 million gallons a day.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">November 13, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wtsp.com\/video\/news\/local\/hillsboroughcounty\/south-hillsborough-county-pipeline-project-begins-construction\/67-7e4b6b91-cd07-40bf-be7c-02291b3947f4\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">South Hillsborough County pipeline project begins construction<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is the first major pipeline construction project in at least 15 years, Tampa Bay Water says. The construction will impact traffic in the area.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">November 10, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/tbbwmag.com\/2025\/11\/10\/tampa-ai-water-quality-pilot\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Tampa startup uses AI to protect drinking water before problems arise<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A Tampa pilot led by SkyTL and ACCIONA uses AI to detect water quality threats before they impact drinking water operations.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">November 9, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wtsp.com\/video\/news\/local\/hillsboroughcounty\/tampa-bay-currently-in-a-rainfall-deficit-as-officials-urge-people-to-conserve-water\/67-a20447d8-c996-48d4-80a5-a2b5ee7a0b9e\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Tampa Bay currently in a rainfall deficit as officials urge people to conserve water<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With parts of Hillsborough County in a moderate drought, officials urge residents to conserve water.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">October 27, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/stpeterising.com\/home\/great-explorations-childrens-museum-plans-new-discovery-center-with-focus-on-steam-education\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Great Explorations Children\u2019s Museum plans new Discovery Center with focus on STEAM education<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After nearly four decades of inspiring young minds, Great Explorations Children\u2019s Museum is dreaming bigger.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">October 24, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.midfloridanewspapers.com\/highlands_news-sun\/news\/polk-fights-tampa-bay-water-permit\/article_3a238562-7f93-4685-b942-8d06fcd5eb6b.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Polk fights Tampa Bay water permit<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Raising the specter of not being able to meet future water needs, a Polk County agency is challenging a decision that would allow the neighboring Tampa Bay region to pull more water from the Alafia River.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">October 24, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.theledger.com\/story\/news\/local\/2025\/10\/24\/polk-regional-water-cooperative-battles-tampa-bay-for-rights-to-water-from-alafia-river-florida\/86876517007\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Polk battles neighbor over water from Alafia River, says future supply depends on source<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Polk Regional Water Cooperative is legally challenging a permit granted to Tampa Bay Water for increased water withdrawals from the Alafia River.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">October 23, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tampabay.com\/news\/environment\/2025\/10\/23\/alafia-river-drinking-water-polk-county-dispute\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Polk County utility challenges Tampa Bay Water\u2019s pumping rights to Alafia River<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Both Tampa Bay Water and Polk County want a piece of the river. Now a judge could decide who gets it.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">October 23, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bizjournals.com\/tampabay\/news\/2025\/10\/23\/tampa-bay-and-polk-water-agencies-clash.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Tampa Bay and Polk water agencies clash over Alafia River<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Two water agencies are battling over access to a key source they claim is instrumental to support the region\u2019s rapid population growth.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">October 22, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wmnf.org\/the-scoop-oct-22-2025-tampa-bay-florida-headlines-wmnf\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">The Scoop: Wed. Oct. 22, 2025 Tampa Bay and Florida headlines by WMNF<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Polk cooperative is fighting a July permit decision by the water management district to allow Tampa Bay Water to withdraw more water from the Alafia.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">October 22, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wusf.org\/environment\/2025-10-22\/polk-county-challenges-decision-allowing-tampa-bay-pull-more-water-alafia-river\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Polk agency challenges decision allowing Tampa Bay area to pull more water from Alafia River<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Areas of Central and Southwest Florida have long grappled with water-supply issues as populations and water demands have increased.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">October 21, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.clickorlando.com\/news\/2025\/10\/22\/polk-county-agency-fights-tampa-bay-water-permit\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Polk County agency fights Tampa Bay water permit<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Raising the specter of not being able to meet future water needs, a Polk County agency is challenging a decision that would allow the neighboring Tampa Bay region to pull more water from the Alafia River.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">October 14, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bizjournals.com\/tampabay\/news\/2025\/10\/14\/water-agency-plans-massive-supply-expansion.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Tampa Bay Water plans $525 million in projects to meet growing demand<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As the region's population swells, Tampa Bay's water agency is laying out a road map for the future.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">October 13, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fox13news.com\/news\/major-southern-hillsborough-county-water-pipeline-project-begin-november\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Major southern Hillsborough County water pipeline project to begin in November<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A $505 million, 26-mile water pipeline project will break ground next month in southern Hillsborough County.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">September 2, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/municipalwaterleader.com\/volume-12-issue-8-september\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Maribel Medina of Tampa Bay Water: Planning Ahead to Meet Growing Demands<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tampa Bay Water is a wholesale drinking water supplier for three cities and three counties across 2,000 square miles in the growing metro area around Tampa Bay, Florida. &nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">August 28, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawyersandsettlements.com\/legal-news\/PFAS-Health-Risks\/tampa-bay-water-gets-21-million-in-pfas-lawsuit-settlement-24209.html\">Tampa Bay Water Gets $21 Million in PFAS Lawsuit Settlement<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Remediation and cost remain uncertain.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">August 17, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thecooldown.com\/green-business\/tampa-bay-water-settlement-pfas\/\">Utility wins $20 million legal fight after dangerous chemicals found in drinking water: 'It will be transformative'<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\"This agreement will benefit public water systems nationwide.\"<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">August 14, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thecooldown.com\/green-home\/tampa-water-rebate-program-irrigation\/\">City launches cash incentive for money-saving home upgrades: 'Offering rebates that make it easy to ... reduce costs'<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\"Provides expert advice, tools, and guidance, so that homeowners are making the most out of every drop.\"<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">August 13, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/stpetecatalyst.com\/water-wise-conservation-program-marks-five-efficient-years\/\">Water Wise conservation program marks five efficient years<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tampa Bay Water\u2019s Water Wise program is combating climate change and saving participants money, one toilet flush at a time.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">July 29, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bizjournals.com\/tampabay\/news\/2025\/07\/29\/tampa-bay-water-wins-21m-from-lawsuit.html\">Tampa Bay Water wins $21M from 'forever chemicals' lawsuit<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A yearslong battle against chemical giants culminates in a windfall for a Florida water provider.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">July 25, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wmnf.org\/tampa-bay-water-awarded-21-million-settlement-from-class-action-lawsuit\/\">Tampa Bay Water awarded $21 million in settlement<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tampa Bay Water was awarded $21 million in a settlement after a class action lawsuit against the manufacturers of PFAS, also known as forever chemicals.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">July 25, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/stpetecatalyst.com\/tampa-bay-water-to-receive-21m-in-chemical-settlement\/\">Tampa Bay Water to receive $21M in chemical settlement<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The payout stems from a nationwide class action against PFAS manufacturers, with additional funds likely.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">July 24, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ehn.org\/tampa-bay-water-utility-secures-21-million-to-fight-pfas-contamination-in-drinking-water\">Tampa Bay water utility secures $21 million to fight PFAS contamination in drinking water<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tampa Bay Water will receive $21 million from chemical companies 3M and DuPont to address&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ehn.org\/what-are-pfas-2656619391.html\">PFAS<\/a>&nbsp;contamination after a yearslong lawsuit over the pollutants known as \u201cforever chemicals.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">July 24, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/thatssotampa.com\/tampa-new-water-rebate\/\">Tampa launches new rebate program to help homeowners save money and water<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A new rebate program is giving Tampa homeowners the opportunity to reduce their water bills and conserve one of the region\u2019s most precious resources.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">July 23, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.newsbreak.com\/myfloridanews-com-1803847\/4128232974364-tampa-launches-rebate-program-to-promote-water-efficient-irrigation\">Tampa launches rebate program to promote water-efficient irrigation<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tampa Water Department customers now have an opportunity to save water and reduce utility bills with a new rebate pilot program aimed at improving irrigation efficiency.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">July 23, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.abcactionnews.com\/news\/region-hillsborough\/tampa-bay-water-secures-21m-in-lawsuit-over-forever-chemicals-to-ensure-safer-drinking-water\">Tampa Bay Water secures $21M+ in lawsuit over \u2018forever chemicals\u2019 to ensure safer drinking water<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The funds come from a national settlement with chemical manufacturers 3M, DuPont, and others, and will help test and treat water for PFAS contamination.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">July 23, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tampa.gov\/news\/2025-07\/new-rebate-program-rewards-homeowners-making-water-wise-upgrades-their-irrigation\">New Rebate Program Rewards Homeowners for Making Water-Wise Upgrades to Their Irrigation System<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Inefficient irrigation systems can waste thousands of precious gallons of water \u2014 and drive-up monthly utility bills.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">July 23, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/hoodline.com\/2025\/07\/tampa-rolls-out-rebate-program-for-water-saving-lawn-irrigation-upgrades\/\">Tampa Rolls Out Rebate Program for Water-Saving Lawn Irrigation Upgrades<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Tampa Water Department is rolling out a new initiative to help homeowners streamline their water use, particularly when it comes to lawn irrigation.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">July 23, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tampabay.com\/news\/environment\/2025\/07\/23\/pfas-drinking-water-lawsuit-3m-duponte\/\">Tampa Bay Water wins $21M against \u2018forever chemicals\u2019 producers in settlement<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The money will be used to bolster drinking water quality and meet new federal limits.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">July 23, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wusf.org\/environment\/2025-07-23\/tampa-bay-water-leader-forever-chemical-litigation-receives-more-than-21-million-settlement\">Tampa Bay Water, leader in 'forever chemical' litigation, receives more than $21 million in settlement<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The water supplier for Hillsborough, Pinellas and Pasco counties doesn't yet know how much it'll cost to get slightly elevated levels of PFAS filtered out of a few of its water sources.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">July 22, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.msn.com\/en-us\/news\/us\/tampa-bay-water-awarded-21m-in-class-action-settlement-over-forever-chemicals\/ar-AA1J6F7l\">Tampa Bay Water awarded $21M+ in class action settlement over \u2018forever chemicals\u2019<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tampa Bay Water officials said a new settlement will help them keep drinking water safe across three counties.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">July 22, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wfla.com\/news\/hillsborough-county\/tampa-bay-water-awarded-21m-in-class-action-settlement-over-forever-chemicals\/\">Tampa Bay Water awarded $21M+ in class action settlement over \u2018forever chemicals\u2019<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tampa Bay Water officials said a new settlement will help them keep drinking water safe across three counties.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">July 14, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/baynews9.com\/fl\/tampa\/news\/2025\/07\/11\/warren-hogg-hero\">Warren Hogg volunteers at Florida Marine Aquarium for 30 years<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A Bay Area man has dedicated his life to taking care of the local drinking water and to volunteering at the Florida Marine Aquarium.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">July 10, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wtsp.com\/article\/news\/local\/hillsboroughcounty\/possible-cyber-attack-water-infrastructure-july-4th-weekend-tampa-feds\/67-261a84ed-017f-4109-982a-8c5f1b3c4e76\">Feds told Tampa officials about a possible cyber attack on water infrastructure during Fourth of July weekend<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One official briefed was told it may have involved Iran, but there's no evidence any attempt was made.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">June 2, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/disclosure.spglobal.com\/ratings\/en\/regulatory\/article\/-\/view\/type\/HTML\/id\/3380599\">Tampa Bay Water, FL Series 2025 Utility System Revenue Bonds Assigned 'AA+' Rating; Outlook Stable<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">S&amp;P Global Ratings assigned its 'AA+' rating to Tampa Bay Water (TBW, or the authority), Fla.'s roughly $160 million series 2025 utility system revenue refunding bonds.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">May 27, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/floridamedianow.com\/2025\/05\/sunbelt-surge-tampa-and-orlando-in-top-ten-destination-for-movers\/#google_vignette\">Sunbelt Surge: Tampa and Orlando In Top Ten Destination For Movers<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Cities Grappling with Rapid Population Growth and Its Consequences<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">May 5, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fox13news.com\/video\/1635952\">Charley's World | Great Explorations Children's Museum<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">FOX 13's Charley Belcher takes us to the Great Explorations Children's Museum.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">May 5, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wfla.com\/bloom-tampa-bay\/bloom-living-local\/wonders-of-wetlands-exhibit-opens-at-great-explorations-museum\/\">\u201cWonders of Wetlands\u201d exhibit opens at Great Explorations Museum<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A new exhibit aimed at teaching kids how wetlands protect Florida\u2019s water supply is now open at Great Explorations Children\u2019s Museum.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">May 5, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/floridapolitics.com\/archives\/736670-gov-desantis-marks-opening-of-new-reverse-osmosis-facility-in-the-keys\/\">Gov. DeSantis marks opening of new reverse osmosis facility in the Keys<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Stock Island plant joins a growing number of reverse osmosis facilities across Florida.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">May 2, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ospreyobserver.com\/2025\/05\/spring-update-on-big-pipeline-project-in-south-hillsborough\/\">Spring Update On Big Pipeline Project In South Hillsborough<\/a><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Major changes are coming to South Hillsborough County as crews get ready to break ground on a vital new water pipeline.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">May 1, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/tampabayparenting.com\/wonders-of-wetlands-at-great-explorations-28859\/\">Discover the \u2018Wonders of Wetlands\u2019 at Great Explorations<\/a><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Great Explorations Children\u2019s Museum is proud to debut&nbsp;Wonders of Wetlands, a brand-new interactive exhibit made possible by&nbsp;Tampa Bay Water.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">May 1, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.abcactionnews.com\/morning-blend\/new-wonders-of-wetlands-exhibit-at-great-explorations-childrens-museum-in-st-pete\">New 'Wonders of Wetlands' Exhibit at Great Explorations Children\u2019s Museum in St. Pete<\/a><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Great Explorations Children\u2019s Museum is proud to announce the grand opening of its newest interactive exhibit, Wonders of Wetlands, designed to educate children and families about the vital role Florida\u2019s wetlands play in water filtration and ecosystem support.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">April 29, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wtsp.com\/video\/features\/great-day-live\/wonders-of-wetlands-exhibit\/67-c243acb8-162f-414f-9750-d3c451707d51\">Wonders of Wetlands Exhibit<\/a><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This new interactive and immersive exhibit at Great Explorations Children's Museum teaches kids all about wetlands and water.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">April 24, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tampabay.com\/opinion\/2025\/04\/24\/drought-is-over-tampa-bay-must-be-vigilant-with-its-water-column\/\">The drought is over, but Tampa Bay must be vigilant with its water<\/a><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Several projects are in the works to increase drinking water supply.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">April 20, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bizjournals.com\/tampabay\/news\/2025\/04\/20\/news-about-tampa-bay-water-space-florida.html\">Tampa Bay Water amps up accessible public meetings and recordings on pipeline project<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tampa Bay Water wrapped eight public meetings for the South Hillsborough Pipeline project, which will deliver up to 65 million gallons of water per day to southern Hillsborough County when completed in 2028.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">April 18, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fox13news.com\/news\/brandon-homeowner-wins-florida-friendly-landscaping-award\">Brandon homeowner wins Florida-friendly Landscaping award<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A Brandon homeowner won the 2025 Florida-Friendly Landscaping award for Hillsborough County, thanks to his environmentally-friendly yard and water conservation efforts.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">April 15, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tampabay.com\/news\/pinellas\/2025\/04\/14\/tampa-bay-water-expansion-treatment-plant\/\">Tampa Bay Water has $181 million plan to increase drinking water supply<br><\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The water utility approved an expansion agreement to increase its facility\u2019s capacity for processing water.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">March 31, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cltampa.com\/news\/seagrass-acreage-in-old-tampa-is-lower-than-its-been-in-30-years-19753348\">Seagrass acreage in Old Tampa Bay is lower than it's been in 30 years<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wusf.org\/environment\/2025-03-28\/seagrass-growth-tampa-bay-highest-level-2016\"><br><\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Managers think we might need to reconsider the way we measure nutrient loading.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">March 28, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wusf.org\/environment\/2025-03-28\/seagrass-growth-tampa-bay-highest-level-2016\">Seagrass growth in Tampa Bay is at its highest level since 2016<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A new study shows while it's growing in one part of Tampa Bay, it's decreasing in another section.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">March 26, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bizjournals.com\/tampabay\/news\/2025\/03\/26\/tampa-bay-water-supports-181m-plant-expansion.html\">Tampa Bay Water moves forward with $181M plant expansion despite tariff concerns<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A major water infrastructure project in Tampa Bay is moving forward, with construction set to begin later this year.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">March 19, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.83degreesmedia.com\/innovationnews\/tampa-bay-water-program-conserves-water-saves-money.aspx\">Tampa Bay Water program conserves water, saves money<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tudor Cay Condominiums in Town N' Country is the latest addition to the Tampa Bay Water Wise conservation and rebate program.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">March 7, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tampabay.com\/news\/environment\/2025\/03\/07\/5-takeaways-spotlight-tampa-bays-discussion-water-quality\/\">5 takeaways from Spotlight Tampa Bay\u2019s discussion on water quality<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The bay is in facing a number of pollution threats, but not all hope is lost.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">March 5, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bizjournals.com\/tampabay\/news\/2025\/03\/05\/tampa-bay-water-updates-demand-forecast.html\">Water demand in Tampa Bay area projected to reach 332 million gallons daily by 2044<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Two areas are seeing the fastest growth in Tampa Bay and several projects are underway to meet the growing demand for water.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column px-15 is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" id=\"tbw-fb\">\n<h2 id=\"recent-facebook-posts\" class=\"wp-block-heading has-blue-color has-text-color\" style=\"font-size:24px\">Recent Facebook Posts<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group my-15\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Tampa Bay Water Facebook feed\" src=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/plugins\/page.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FTampaBayWater%2F&amp;tabs=timeline&amp;width=340&amp;height=500&amp;small_header=true&amp;adapt_container_width=true&amp;hide_cover=true&amp;show_facepile=true&amp;appId\" style=\"border:none;overflow:hidden\" scrolling=\"no\" allowfullscreen=\"true\" allow=\"autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share\" width=\"340\" height=\"500\" frameborder=\"0\"><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column px-15 is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" id=\"tbw-tweet\">\n<h2 id=\"recent-tweets\" class=\"wp-block-heading has-blue-color has-text-color\" style=\"font-size:24px\">Recent Tweets<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group my-15\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<a class=\"twitter-timeline\" data-height=\"520\" href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/TampaBayWater?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">Tweets by TampaBayWater<\/a> <script async=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-white-color has-blue-background-color has-text-color has-background\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group container my-15\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-white-color has-text-color\" id=\"media-gallery\">Media Gallery<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-style-default my-15 py-15 is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full mb-0\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"415\" src=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/photo-gallery.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3775\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.tampabaywater.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/photo-gallery.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.tampabaywater.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/photo-gallery-300x156.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.tampabaywater.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/photo-gallery-768x398.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-off-black-color has-text-color has-background\" style=\"background-color:#b1e5df\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-off-black-color has-text-color\" id=\"photo-gallery\">Photo Gallery<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons pb-15 is-horizontal is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-7d812b4c wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button is-style-default\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"\/newsroom\/photo-gallery\/\">View Photos<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full mb-0\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"415\" src=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/video-gallery.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3781\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.tampabaywater.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/video-gallery.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.tampabaywater.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/video-gallery-300x156.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.tampabaywater.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/video-gallery-768x398.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-off-black-color has-text-color has-background\" style=\"background-color:#b1e5df\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-off-black-color has-text-color\" id=\"video-gallery\">Video Gallery<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons pb-15 is-horizontal is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-7d812b4c wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button is-style-default\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"\/newsroom\/videos\/\">View Videos<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group my-15\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group container\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group mb-30 px-30 py-30 has-background\" style=\"background-color:#f5f5f5\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full mb-0\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"273\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tampabaywater.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Balm-Civic-Association.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-7903\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.tampabaywater.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Balm-Civic-Association.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.tampabaywater.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Balm-Civic-Association-300x102.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.tampabaywater.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Balm-Civic-Association-768x262.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-blue-color has-text-color\" id=\"speakers-bureau\">Speakers Bureau<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tampa Bay Water has an interesting history and many stories that make us who we are. Book someone from Tampa Bay Water\u2019s Speakers Bureau to share our stories and history with you and your organization.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tampa Bay Water\u2019s Speakers Bureau is available to schools, universities, community organizations and civic groups to share knowledge and expertise on topics related to water, treatment, environmental stewardship, source water protection, conservation and more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons pb-15 is-horizontal is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-7d812b4c wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button is-style-default\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-blue-background-color has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"\/newsroom\/speaker-request\/\">Request a Speaker<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group container has-blue-to-green-gradient-background has-background\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button has-custom-width wp-block-button__width-100 is-style-gradient\" style=\"font-size:28px\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-white-color has-blue-to-green-gradient-background has-text-color has-background has-custom-font-size wp-element-button\" href=\"\/newsroom\/logos\/\" style=\"font-size:28px\">Agency Logos<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group my-30\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-blue-color has-text-color has-custom-lineheight mb-0 pb-0 mt-0 pt-0\" id=\"tampa-bay-water-blog\" style=\"line-height:2\">Tampa Bay Water Blog<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group p-0 has-white-background-color has-background\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-query is-layout-flow wp-block-query-is-layout-flow\"><ul class=\"wp-block-post-template is-layout-flow wp-block-post-template-is-layout-flow\"><li class=\"wp-block-post post-15120 blog type-blog status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-construction\">\n<h3 style=\"font-size:18px;\" class=\"wp-block-post-title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tampabaywater.org\/blog\/south-hillsborough-pipeline-construction-advances-across-multiple-tunnel-sites\/\" target=\"_self\" >South Hillsborough Pipeline Construction Advances Across Multiple Tunnel Sites<\/a><\/h3>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt\"><p class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt__excerpt\">As Hillsborough County continues to grow, the South Hillsborough Pipeline will play a vital role in ensuring a reliable water supply for\u00a0the community\u2014residents, businesses, hospitals, schools, fire\u00a0rescue\u00a0and other essential services.\u00a0\u00a0 Once completed, this 5-foot diameter pipeline will be able to deliver up to\u00a065 million gallons\u00a0per day to\u00a0Hillsborough County. The pipeline will serve both the Lithia&hellip;<\/p><p class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt__more-text\"><a class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt__more-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.tampabaywater.org\/blog\/south-hillsborough-pipeline-construction-advances-across-multiple-tunnel-sites\/\">Read More<\/a><\/p><\/div>\n<\/li><li class=\"wp-block-post post-15118 blog type-blog status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-agency\">\n<h3 style=\"font-size:18px;\" class=\"wp-block-post-title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tampabaywater.org\/blog\/tampa-bay-water-completes-five-year-performance-and-management-audit\/\" target=\"_self\" >Tampa Bay Water Completes Five\u2011Year Performance and Management Audit<\/a><\/h3>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt\"><p class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt__excerpt\">Every five years, Tampa Bay Water\u2019s performance is reviewed by\u00a0an independent\u00a0firm\u00a0to take an\u00a0unbiased, big\u2011picture look at how\u00a0we\u2019re\u00a0performing.\u00a0It\u2019s\u00a0part of our commitment to transparency\u2014and\u00a0way for our board of directors to\u00a0ensure\u00a0we\u2019re\u00a0continuously improving the way we serve our growing region.\u00a0Unlike a financial audit, the performance audit looks at the activities performed by the agency and reviews the performance in&hellip;<\/p><p class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt__more-text\"><a class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt__more-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.tampabaywater.org\/blog\/tampa-bay-water-completes-five-year-performance-and-management-audit\/\">Read More<\/a><\/p><\/div>\n<\/li><li class=\"wp-block-post post-14905 blog type-blog status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-conservation\">\n<h3 style=\"font-size:18px;\" class=\"wp-block-post-title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tampabaywater.org\/blog\/why-water-conservation-matters-in-tampa-bay\/\" target=\"_self\" >Why Water Conservation Matters in Tampa Bay<\/a><\/h3>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt\"><p class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt__excerpt\">Water conservation\u00a0is a way\u00a0of life in Florida, but during extended dry\u00a0periods\u2014like the one\u00a0we\u2019re\u00a0experiencing now\u2014it becomes even more important.\u00a0Ongoing dry conditions\u00a0mean\u00a0we\u2019re\u00a0relying more heavily on certain water sources.\u00a0That\u2019s\u00a0why\u00a0we\u2019re\u00a0asking everyone to use only what you need and\u00a0avoid\u00a0waste\u00a0where possible.\u00a0 Conservation\u00a0isn\u2019t\u00a0just about\u00a0following\u00a0rules.\u00a0It\u2019s\u00a0about protecting our water supplies, supporting the\u00a0environment\u00a0and ensuring we can meet the needs of a growing region both now&hellip;<\/p><p class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt__more-text\"><a class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt__more-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.tampabaywater.org\/blog\/why-water-conservation-matters-in-tampa-bay\/\">Read More<\/a><\/p><\/div>\n<\/li><li class=\"wp-block-post post-14691 blog type-blog status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-drought-update\">\n<h3 style=\"font-size:18px;\" class=\"wp-block-post-title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tampabaywater.org\/blog\/2025-tampa-bay-water-supply-overview\/\" target=\"_self\" >2025 Tampa Bay Water Supply Overview<\/a><\/h3>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt\"><p class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt__excerpt\">As we close out Fiscal Year 2025, Tampa Bay Water reflects on the challenges and successes in managing our regional water supply. Despite inconsistent rainfall and anticipated drought conditions, strategic planning and resource management have positioned us well for the year ahead.\u00a0 Rainfall Trends and Environmental Conditions\u00a0 Fiscal Year 2025 began with a surge of&hellip;<\/p><p class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt__more-text\"><a class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt__more-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.tampabaywater.org\/blog\/2025-tampa-bay-water-supply-overview\/\">Read More<\/a><\/p><\/div>\n<\/li><li class=\"wp-block-post post-14689 blog type-blog status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-construction\">\n<h3 style=\"font-size:18px;\" class=\"wp-block-post-title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tampabaywater.org\/blog\/construction-proposal-approved-awaiting-permits\/\" target=\"_self\" >Construction Proposal Approved; Awaiting Permits<\/a><\/h3>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt\"><p class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt__excerpt\">At its October meeting, Tampa Bay Water\u2019s board of directors approved a $216.7 million proposal from Garney Companies for open-cut construction and restoration of the 26-mile-long South Hillsborough Pipeline, scheduled to begin the first quarter of 2026.\u00a0 This is the third guaranteed maximum price package that the board has approved for the project. The first&hellip;<\/p><p class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt__more-text\"><a class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt__more-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.tampabaywater.org\/blog\/construction-proposal-approved-awaiting-permits\/\">Read More<\/a><\/p><\/div>\n<\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-horizontal is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-7d812b4c wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button is-style-default\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-blue-background-color has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"\/blog\/\">More Articles<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-no-padding has-dark-blue-background-color has-background mb-0 mt-0\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Welcome to the Tampa Bay Water newsroom where you'll find news stories, story ideas, photos, video, and more. If you are a reporter, you may request interviews through our public...","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_editorskit_title_hidden":false,"_editorskit_reading_time":22,"_editorskit_is_block_options_detached":false,"_editorskit_block_options_position":"{}","_coblocks_attr":"","_coblocks_dimensions":"","_coblocks_responsive_height":"","_coblocks_accordion_ie_support":"","_crdt_document":"","footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-54","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.0 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Newsroom - Tampa Bay Water<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.tampabaywater.org\/newsroom\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Newsroom - Tampa Bay Water\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Welcome to the Tampa Bay Water newsroom where you&#039;ll find news stories, story ideas, photos, video, and more. 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