Florida's water quality faces growing threats from a range of environmental and human-made pressures. One of the most significant challenges is nutrient pollution—primarily nitrogen and phosphorus—stemming from agricultural runoff, wastewater discharges, and stormwater overflow. These excess nutrients fuel harmful algal blooms in both freshwater and coastal systems, such as red tide in the Gulf and blue-green algae in lakes and rivers. These blooms not only devastate marine life and ecosystems but also threaten public health and the tourism-driven economy.

Rapid development and urban sprawl further strain Florida’s water resources. Wetlands and natural floodplains, which act as filters and buffers, are increasingly being drained or paved over to make way for housing and infrastructure. As a result, there’s less natural land to absorb rainwater, leading to more polluted runoff entering rivers, springs, and estuaries. Additionally, aging septic systems and underfunded wastewater infrastructure leak contaminants into groundwater and surface waters, compounding the problem.Clean water is vital not only for the health of Florida’s environment but also for its people and economy. Safe, accessible water supports drinking supplies, agriculture, fishing, tourism, and outdoor recreation—all foundational to the state's identity and livelihoods.

In this context, protecting water quality means protecting Florida’s future. Strong environmental safeguards, responsible land use, and public involvement are essential to reversing the damage and preventing new threats. With coordinated action—from local stewardship to statewide advocacy—Floridians can work together to restore the health of their waterways and preserve them for generations to come.