Cape Coral enforces water conservation measures amid aquifer depletion crisis

In a recent City Council meeting held on March 5, 2025, Cape Coral officials discussed critical measures to address the ongoing water shortage affecting the Mid Hawthorne Aquifer and the Northeast Cape Coral area. The council emphasized the importance of protecting this vital water source to ensure a sustainable drinking water supply for residents.

To combat the water crisis, the city has implemented a modified phase 3 water shortage declaration, which limits irrigation to just one day a week in the affected areas. Additional code enforcement staff will be hired during the dry season to ensure compliance with these restrictions. The council also announced plans to accelerate the North Water Reclamation Facility project, with an expected completion date of 2030, to enhance the region's irrigation water supply.

A significant development discussed was the city’s approval to purchase the Southwest Aggregates mine, which will be transformed into a reservoir for irrigation water. Furthermore, new wells will be drilled into the lower portion of the Mid Hawthorne Aquifer to help stabilize water levels, as current wells are contributing to the decline.

The council is also moving forward with an ordinance that mandates property owners to connect to the city’s irrigation water system within 180 days if a reclaimed water pipeline is available nearby. This measure aims to reduce reliance on private groundwater wells, which have been overused.

In light of the declining water levels, the council outlined future actions that may be taken if levels drop below critical thresholds. These include limiting the construction of new wells and implementing zero irrigation days for users in the water shortage area.

The city, county, and water district are committed to ongoing community education about the seriousness of the water shortage and the steps being taken to address it. As Cape Coral navigates these challenges, the council's proactive measures aim to safeguard the community's water supply for the future.