Manatee County Reclaimed Water System Experiencing Reduced Pressure Due to High Seasonal Demand

Manatee County Utilities is advising reclaimed water customers that portions of the County’s master reuse system for irrigation are currently experiencing lower-than-normal water pressure due to increased seasonal demand -this does NOT affect potable (drinking) water pressure or availability. 

Manatee County’s Water Reclamation Facilities remain in full compliance with all Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) requirements. However, an extended period of hot, dry weather and limited rainfall has significantly increased irrigation demand across the service area, resulting in reclaimed water demand that currently exceeds the system’s production capacity. 

While reclaimed water is not subject to current watering restrictions, Manatee County is asking reclaimed water customers to voluntarily follow the same schedule as potable irrigation water users during this extended dry period.  

County operations staff are actively managing system flows and pressures to maximize reclaimed water delivery while maintaining regulatory compliance and system reliability. 

County operations staff are actively managing system flows and pressures to maximize reclaimed water delivery while maintaining regulatory compliance and system reliability. Manatee County is anticipating increasing reclaimed water distribution, which is expected to improve system pressures if weather conditions and customer demand remain consistent. 

“We appreciate our customers’ patience and understanding as we work to meet the increased demand,” said Brent Laudicina, Utilities Division Manager. “Our team continues to monitor system conditions closely and make operational adjustments where possible to provide the highest level of service. In the meantime, we are all hoping for some much-needed rainfall to help reduce irrigation demand and support the recovery of normal system pressures.” 

Customers experiencing low reclaimed water pressure are encouraged to understand that these conditions are temporary and are the result of ongoing drought conditions and increased irrigation demand throughout the service area. 
 
For additional information, visit mymanatee.org/utilities or contact Manatee County Utilities Customer Service.

For more information on Manatee County Government, visit mymanatee.org or contact Manatee County Government Communications at news@mymanatee.org or call (941) 745-6397 (NEWS). Follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @ManateeGov.