On Tuesday, the Suwannee River Water Management District (SRWMD) Governing Board approved over $550,000 for local projects that will enhance or address water resources in the region.

According to an SRWMD release sent Thursday, the four projects approved were included in the Regional Initiative Valuing Environmental Resources (RIVER) program that focuses on flood protection, water quality, water supply and/or natural systems core missions. The projects are in Gainesville, Archer, Cross City and Columbia County.

“The RIVER program provides an opportunity for local governments to obtain cost-share funding for projects that foster our core mission,” said Hugh Thomas, executive director of the District, in the press release. “These projects are great examples of how local partnerships can support protection and restoration of our water resources.” 

The District has funded 81 RIVER projects since 2013 totaling nearly $8.7 million.

The approved projects include: 

• Cross City Flood Management Improvements – Cross City – This $66,891 project will improve the stormwater management system located west of Ruth Rains Middle School on the west side of County Road 351.
• Holly Hills Stormwater Pond Improvements – Archer – This $55,930 project provides a match for additional stormwater management features to mitigate flooding.
• Rum Island, Stabilization and Boardwalk – Columbia County – This $212,900 project will repair the previously installed erosion system, provide additional riverbank stabilization, and protect 117 linear feet of the spring pool bank.
• Oakmont Reclaimed Water Extension, Phase 6 – Gainesville Regional Utilities (GRU) – This $226,542 project provides a 50 percent match will extend reclaimed water lines to 158 homes, plus common areas, to offset 0.055mgd of groundwater for irrigation. 

For additional information on District funding opportunities, click here.