Report: Northeast Florida may run short on fresh water by 2035

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Flushing water down the drain is slowly putting a strain on the water we depend on every day. A new report details a reality we all may face. By 2035, there may not be enough fresh water to meet a growing population without harming our natural resources.

It details a population growth of 40 percent in Northeast Florida as the reason for the concern. 

"That's a substantial demand," said Teresa Monson with the St. Johns River Water Management District.

Monson said they're already working on ways to fix the problem. 

"Water conservation, reclaimed water, sea water and other sources to supplement the water," she said. 

Monson said already that more reclaimed water is being used in our area for things like irrigation. Action News found signs from the Southside to Nocatee indicating the system is in use. But not everyone thinks that is the best idea. 

"It's nasty and smelly," said taxpayer Okwuoma Blandin. 

While there are 19 proposed projects that would help fix the problem, there's a cost of more than $1 billion. In the Nocatee area alone, for example, it's a $5 million investment.

But there is something people can do right now. 

"As of right now, one thing people can do is conserve water," said Monson.

All of the projects listed may not be done. Click here to read the entire St. Johns River Water Management District report. The report will now have to be approved by the district board, which will happen later this summer.

WJAX