Welcome to the Tampa Bay Water newsroom where you'll find news stories, story ideas, photos, video, and more. If you are a reporter, you may request interviews through our public communications department.
Tampa Bay Water provides wholesale water to the public utility systems of Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas counties, and the cities of New Port Richey, St. Petersburg and Tampa.
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Michelle Stom, MPA, APRChief of Staff/Chief Strategy OfficerO: (727) 791-2305 | M: (727) 418-4652
Brandon Moore, APRPublic Communications ManagerO: (727) 791-2304 | M: (727) 470-0702
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News Release For Immediate Release Contact: Brandon Moorebmoore@tampabaywater.org(727) 791-2304 | (727) 470-0702 CLEARWATER, Fla. (Aug. 31, 2023) – Tampa Bay Water invites Tampa Bay area residents to join a telephone town hall...
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News Release For Immediate Release Contact: Brandon Moorebmoore@tampabaywater.org(727) 791-2304 | (727) 470-0702 CLEARWATER, Fla. (Aug. 22, 2023) – For more than 20 years, Tampa Bay Water has supported the Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ (FFL) Program...
News Release For Immediate Release Contact: Brandon Moorebmoore@tampabaywater.org(727) 791-2304 | (727) 470-0702 CLEARWATER, Fla. (August 1, 2023) – Community groups, nonprofits and educational institutions can receive a share of $30,000 in grant...
News Release For Immediate Release Contact: Brandon Moorebmoore@tampabaywater.org(727) 791-2304 | (727) 470-0702 LARGO, Fla. (July 12, 2023) – New signs along the Florida Botanical Gardens Elevated Wetland Walkway were installed Wednesday morning....
August 21, 2023
Tampa Bay region’s drinking water could come from familiar source
Tampa Bay’s regional water utility is looking in old places for new drinking water.
August 9, 2023
Florida utility recycles old toilets into oyster havens
Tampa Bay Water is repurposing old toilets into a water-filtering oyster sanctuary, helping to offset the waste impacts from the utility’s growing rebate program.
July 27, 2023
Is it rainy season yet? Tampa Bay is experiencing severe drought conditions
Every summer, Tampa Bay residents have come to expect daily downpours as they rush to their vehicles after work. But an especially dry start to 2023 hasn’t yet given way to the typical pattern of summertime storms.
What the Supreme Court’s Clean Water Act decision means for Tampa Bay
A combination of federal protections, local ordinances and grassroots efforts helped clean Tampa Bay’s waterways by the 1990s.
July 23, 2023
8 things to know, including what a retailer is doing to fill hundreds of local jobs, and remembering a Tampa CRE pioneer
First, here are three eye-catching stories you may have missed from the TBBJ newsroom this past week.
July 20, 2023
Florida Botanical Gardens Teams Up with Tampa Bay Water to Add New Way to Learn
The Florida Botanical Gardens in Largo is an oasis with beautiful plants, trees, birds and butterflies. It’s now also home to a project that takes the Gardens’ inspiration and seamlessly blends in education.
Tampa Bay Water teams up with Florida Botanical Gardens
It’s not every day that tourist attractions and public utilities team up, but in Largo, a beautiful partnership blossoms.
July 19, 2023
What's Good In Tampa Bay With Ann Kelly - Signs, signs, everywhere
There's signs at the Florida Botanical Gardens Elevated Wetland Walkway with important messages on protecting and conserving water.
Tampa Bay Water partners with Botanical Gardens on signs touting conservation
Officials with Tampa Bay Water and the Florida Botanical Gardens Foundation unveiled a new collaborative project at the Ulmerton Road facility July 12.
July 13, 2023
Botanical Gardens Signs Play Pivotal Role In Conserving Drinking Water
New signs were installed Wednesday at the Florida Botanical Gardens to help educate visitors about the importance of protecting and conserving drinking water sources.
Biologists: Heatwave a danger to coral reefs off the coast of Florida
The realities of servicing a sprawling Hillsborough County with basic infrastructure could begin to further eat into residents' pocketbooks.
July 12, 2023
Vibrant new signs to play pivotal role in protecting and conserving our drinking water
Vibrant new signs will greet visitors to the Florida Botanical Gardens Elevated Walkway in Largo. These colorful markers offer visitors an immersive learning encounter amid the Gardens’ splendor.
July 11, 2023
Rate increases in Hillsborough could help fund large water projects
July 8, 2023
Third Saturdays continues in July
Creative Pinellas, Florida Botanical Gardens and Heritage Village will continue the Third Saturdays at Pinewood on Saturday, July 15.
July 6, 2023
Tampa Bay Watch installs vertical oyster gardens in Tampa
The Tampa Bay Watch environmental organization is giving new life to oyster shells tossed in the trash at local restaurants to create more habitats and filtration in Tampa Bay.
June 26, 2023
Is it too much growth or not enough water fueling Zephyrhills' growth moratorium?
The city of Zephyrhills is about to issue a hold on new developments for the next year as it reaches the maximum amount it's allowed to withdraw from the aquifer. The head of the local water district says it's more about the growth than not having enough water.
June 22, 2023
Hillsborough County commissioners express support for $1.8B Selmon Expressway extension
Traffic congestion has become so bad southeast of Tampa that elected officials are ready for solutions no matter the cost — as long as the county doesn't pay for it.
June 15, 2023
Flushing out our waterways using your old toilets
Old toilets are now being used to help clean the water in Tampa Bay! It's a unique pilot program that's brought two local agencies together with the same goal of protecting the environment.
June 14, 2023
Tampa Bay Water celebrates 25 years
Tampa Bay Water – the wholesale drinking water supplier to Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas counties, as well as the cities of New Port Richey, St. Petersburg and Tampa – is celebrating 25 years of innovation and regional cooperation to keep water flowing to the region.
June 12, 2023
What's Good In Tampa Bay With Ann Kelly - Can water have a birthday?
Can water have a birthday? Sure! Tampa Bay Water is celebrating their 25th year of meeting the every-growing demand for water, and that's What's Good in Tampa Bay with Ann Kelly and General Manager Chuck Carden.
June 9, 2023
A quarter century after its formation, Tampa Bay Water still seen as a model for the region
By the time Tampa Bay Water found its footing in 1998, governments across the region had wasted years fighting — losing millions of dollars in lawsuits in the process.
June 8, 2023
Do you know where your water comes from? We'll take you on your water's journey to your home
Drinking water for residents in Hillsborough, Pinellas and Pasco counties is made up of aquifer, river and Gulf waters. And it goes through a lot before reaching your faucet.
June 7, 2023
Hundreds of lakes and wetlands have rebounded since Tampa Bay Water was formed 25 years ago
Residents across the greater Tampa Bay region can enjoy thousands of acres of wetlands and lakes that have slowly rebounded over the past couple decades since Tampa Bay Water stopped the over-pumping of groundwater and ended "the water wars."
May 31, 2023
Keeping the Apollo Beach desalination plant open will cost over $500M across 20 years
Desalination, especially as it becomes more efficient, is one possible answer to drinking water problems across the world.
May 26, 2023
Tampa Council plans formal farewell for ‘toilet-to-tap’
The city proposal to use wastewater to augment drinking water supplies will end.
May 18, 2023
Toilet to Reef: A unique recycling program turning your old potty into an ecosystem
If you have an old leaky toilet and plan to replace it, don't throw it away! Rebates through Tampa Bay Water are available, and you can help protect the environment.
May 16, 2023
During this drought, here’s how Tampa Bay residents can save water and money | Column
Weeks from the traditional start of the summer rainy season, Tampa Bay and most of Florida are experiencing the most severe drought conditions in more than a decade.
May 12, 2023
Three of Tampa Bay’s county commissions just met. That’s a first.
Many on Friday praised the work of Tampa Bay Water, which emerged from the region’s water wars in the 1990s to control its water supply, as an example of regionalism at its best.
May 11, 2023
Unveiling The Tampa Bay Area Tap Water Mystery
Unveiling The Tampa Bay Area Tap Water Mystery. Tap water is a daily essential for most of us, but have you ever wondered why the taste can vary across different regions?
Keeping the water flowing: How local entities are combating the growing population’s growing demand for water
It’s often an afterthought. You turn on the faucet and water comes out, a seemingly endless supply of it. Clean and ready for showering, drinking or cooking.
Bathroom to Bay: How old toilets are being transformed into a sea life habitat in Tampa Bay
As one of the most popular tourist destinations, Tampa Bay has an abundance of hotels and other properties. As those properties are updated over time, replaceable items like old toilets are sent to landfills. Tampa Bay Watch and Tampa Bay Water are exploring ways to find more sustainable solutions for the toilets.
May 8, 2023
Lack of rain raises water concerns in Hillsborough
Due to a shortage of rainfall in the first four months of the year, Hillsborough County is reminding residents to be mindful of how much water they’re using.
Here’s where your Tampa Bay drinking water comes from
If you’ve ever wondered why your tap water tastes different than your friend’s across the bay, we have the answer. The water comes from the same sources, but the cities and counties around Tampa Bay have different treatment processes and combinations of source water.
May 1, 2023
New Well Planned To Increase Water Supply
The increase in demand for water is driven by growth in Southeastern Hillsborough County, which is seeing more residents move into new homes every day. To help meet that growing need, Tampa Bay Water is implementing a plan to increase the amount of water flowing to that part of the utility’s service area.
April 24, 2023
Recycled toilets to help with quality of Tampa Bay
Two local organizations have come together for a unique recycling opportunity using toilet bowls. They say the effort will ultimately help improve the quality of Tampa Bay.
Buying Water During The Drought
The city of Tampa said Tampa Bay Water supplies wholesale drinking water to Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas counties.
April 23, 2023
Tampa Water Department buys water from provider amid seasonal drought
Save the Oceans with Old Toilets
April 20, 2023
Drought is shrinking the Hillsborough County Reservoir
The Hillsborough River Reservoir is dwindling by the day because of a lack of rainfall in our area. To address this growing concern, the Tampa Water Department purchased water from Tampa Bay Water to make up for its shortfalls.
Tampa Bay Watch non-profit transform old toilets into oyster reef balls
Volunteers with Tampa Bay Watch use hammers and a marine-friendly concrete mix to create oyster reef balls to filter the water in the bay. Pieces of toilets are included.
Tampa is purchasing water to address a lack of rainfall
The Tampa Water Department says it’s taking measures to address what it calls a seasonal drought affecting the city.
April 19, 2023
Here’s why your water might taste or smell different in Tampa
The department said it is purchasing water from Tampa Bay Water starting Thursday. The company supplies wholesale drinking water to Hillsborough County, Pasco County, Pinellas County, as well as New Port Richey, St. Petersburg, and Tampa.
April 18, 2023
Tampa considers new option for wastewater disposal
It's back to the drawing board after the first two pitches to convert Tampa's wastewater into clean water for drinking or dispersing into the Hillsborough River went down the drain.
April 17, 2023
Hispanics Come Together To Demonstrate Commitment To Environment
Volunteers recently gathered at Lowry Park to do their part to clean up the Hillsborough River.
After ‘toilet to tap,’ Tampa turns to Plan C for wastewater disposal
The city of Tampa has a new idea for disposing of its treated wastewater — send it to the region’s drinking water supplier, Tampa Bay Water.
April 14, 2023
Editor's picks: Things to know, including impact numbers from Sarasota's CareerEdge Funders Collaborative
Tampa Bay Water made an $8,000 grant earmarked to educate Hispanic communities in Tampa Bay about the importance of the water supply through outings and community cleanups delivered in their cultural representation.
April 8, 2023
Hispanics For Our Environment Host Hillsborough River Cleanup
On Saturday, April 8, Tampa Bay Kayak Anglers will hold a Hispanics for Our Environment: Hillsborough River Cleanup. Volunteers will gather at Lowry Park, 1204 W. Flora St., in Tampa from 8 to 11 a.m.
April 5, 2023
Hillsborough leaders to discuss new water source
A new water source is likely coming to South Hillsborough County.
March 29, 2023
New water source brings relief to south Hillsborough County
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. — People in Hillsborough County will soon have a new freshwater source, and it will have a big impact on people in the area.
March 28, 2023
Regional transportation proposal sparks familiar disagreements among Tampa Bay elected officials
Politicians and TIP leaders gathered on March 24, in Pasco County.
March 24, 2023
World Water Day: How Florida is working to combat drinking water supply depletion
TAMPA BAY, Fla. (Tampa Bay Now News) - In recognition of World Water Day, experts in Florida say the state is seeing its drinking water supply deplete at an alarming rate and they're working to address it before it's too late.
March 22, 2023
Commercial water applications in Tampa surge over 30% in six years
The city's water department recently doubled its development services team to accommodate the growing demand.
Tampa Bay Water taps new source for south Hillsborough faucets
The plan will provide an additional 2.3 million gallons of water daily to the fast-growing region.
March 21, 2023
Hillsborough County program rewards sustainable gardeners
TAMPA, Fla. - Bay Area gardeners who use native plants to help the environment are being rewarded through a Hillsborough County program.
March 17, 2023
Tampa council candidate Cruz denies flip-flop on wastewater reuse plan
Tampa City Council candidate and former state legislator Janet Cruz denies that she has changed her position on Tampa’s plans to reuse wastewater, despite having sponsored a bill to expedite a similar plan in 2018.
March 14, 2023
EPA proposes first national standards to regulate 'forever chemicals' in drinking water
WASHINGTON, D.C., USA — When is the last time you thought about what's in the water coming out of your faucet?
Right now, the EPA is proposing some big changes on what should be allowed in terms of "forever chemicals," or PFAS (perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances), in our drinking water. On Tuesday, EPA leaders announced a proposal that would implement the first national standard to limit PFAS chemicals in drinking water.
March 7, 2023
Annual Contest Recognizes Residents For Conserving Water On Lawns
Hillsborough County Extension Service is accepting applications for the Tampa Bay Community Water Wise Awards, which aim to promote appropriate gardening habits and recognize community members who are committed to creating sustainable landscapes.
Election results: Four Tampa City Council races head to runoff, Blake Casper loses
Four Tampa City Council races will head to a runoff following Tuesday’s election, with two other candidates clinching their spots on the dais for the next four years.
Tampa City Council District 6 results: Miranda leads, but runoff likely
TAMPA — The race for the West Tampa-based District 6 City Council seat appears headed to a runoff, as Charlie Miranda led the crowded field by a wide margin Tuesday night but not with a majority of the vote.
What's Good In Tampa Bay With Ann Kelly
March 6, 2023
TECO vows changes after Hillsborough River sewage spill, but points finger at apartments
Tampa Electric is pointing the finger at one of its customers for not disclosing to the utility it had a private wastewater pump station on its account before the utility cut off power over an unpaid bill — resulting in a weeklong January spill that dumped an estimated 630,000 gallons of raw sewage into the Hillsborough River.
March 3, 2023
630,000 gallons of sewage from apartments spilled into Hillsborough River
TAMPA, Fla. — Hundreds of thousands of gallons of raw sewage — enough to fill an Olympic-sized swimming pool, was spilled into the Hillsborough River, according to state environmental reports.
March 2, 2023
Water issues front and center in West Tampa-based council race
Charlie Miranda, who must leave his citywide District 2 seat due to term limits, is making a bid for the open District 6 seat against four candidates making their first campaigns for elected office.
Feb 28, 2023
Pasco eyes possible Ridge Road extension to Overpass Road
The final segment of the Ridge Road, which is scheduled to reach U.S. 41 in Land O’ Lakes, could turn into just another stop along the road.
Feb 27, 2023
Pasco to study possible road across the Cypress Creek Preserve
Pasco leaders looking for more east-west travel options in their growing county have given transportation planners the green light to study another extension of Ridge Road — this one through the 8,506-acre Cypress Creek Preserve.
Feb 9, 2023
SWIM Celebrates 35 Years of Restoring Tampa Bay
Few restoration initiatives have made this much difference in just 35 years: 384 projects to improve water quality, creating 15,596 acres of habitat that drains 230,725 acres of watershed.
Jan 24, 2023
Tampa Bay Water finalizes second part of 26-mile pipeline route to South Hillsborough County
A 26-mile water main will extend between the Tampa Bay Waterregional facilities site north of State Road 60 all the way to a newfacility near Balm, with a pit stop at a treatment plant in Lithia.
January 23, 2023
Tampa Bay Water Board approves Segment B of South Hillsborough Pipeline project
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. — On Monday, The Tampa Bay Water Board will consider approving Segment B, the southern segment, for the new South Hillsborough Pipeline.
December 16, 2022
Could a Florida tax dispute throw county immunity law into chaos?
A decade-long property tax dispute between Pinellasand Pasco counties will be settled soon. Someargue it could have an unintended consequence.
Tampa Bay area ponder how to make regional transportation decisions
Tampa Bay has a familiar question to answer: How should the region's leaders make transportation decisions together while governments remain siloed and priorities appear disjointed?
December 7, 2022
Former Pinellas commissioner vowed to ‘squeeze every minute out of life
Afflicted with rheumatic fever, Sallie Parks spent months of her childhood confined to her bed.
Later on, Parks would almost never bring up this period, even to her family. But once, on a long car ride with her daughter-in-law, she suggested those housebound months had set the frame for the rest of her life.
Largo moves forward with $20M plan for deep injection wells
LARGO — After about three years of searching for a home for its wastewater discharges, the city is forging ahead with a roughly $20 million project to construct two deep injection wells.
Tampa lobbyists pushed for state law on Tampa wastewater discharges
TAMPA — Last week, when Tampa public works officials told skeptical City Council members that a new state law required the city to divert the 50 million gallons a dayof highly treated reclaimed waterit now dumps into Tampa Bay, they presented it as fait accompli.
December 5, 2022
County Seeks Input On Segment 2 Of South County Potable Water Main
Segment Two is designed to meet future water demands, provide system redundancy and resiliency and increase water pressure to customers.
November 1, 2022
Water suppliers in the greater Tampa Bay region share how they prepare for storms like Hurricane Ian
Hurricane Ian knocked out electricity in much of Southwest Florida, which cut power to pumps that deliver freshwater to homes and businesses. The underground system of pipes that deliver the water was also damaged, leading to a loss of pressure and possibly contaminating the drinking water supply.
October 13, 2022
Fitch Revises Outlook on Pasco County, FL's Water and Sewer Revs to Positive; Affirms 'AA+' Rating
Fitch Ratings - New York - 13 Oct 2022: Fitch Ratings has affirmed the 'AA+' rating on the following Pasco County, FL (the county) revenue bonds:
--$96.3 million outstanding water and sewer revenue bonds series 2014A and 2014B.
October 5, 2022
Rating Action: Moody's assigns Aa1 to Tampa Bay Water, FL's revenue bonds, outlook stable
New York, October 05, 2022 -- Moody's Investors Service has assigned a Aa1 rating to Tampa Bay Water,FL's $120.5 million Utility System Revenue Bonds, Series 2022. Concurrently, Moody's has affirmed its Aa1rating on Tampa Bay Water's (TBW) outstanding revenue bonds. Following the issuance, TBW is estimated tohave $926 million of revenue debt outstanding. The outlook is stable.
Beyond Barriers to Implementation: A Water Sector Perspective on Sea Level Rise Adaptation
As the atmosphere warms due to climate change, there is a direct impact on the hydrologic cycle, thus creating unique challenges for the water sector. The effects of sea level rise and other associated coastal changes (e.g., storm surge, erosion, and flooding) have already had a wide range of impacts on coastal communities, and climate change will only exacerbate these challenges in the future. The hardships brought on by climate change are forcing a paradigm shift for decision-making in the water sector as practitioners seek to implement options to avoid, minimize, mitigate, and/or recover from the effects of these climate-driven impacts—an effort collectively known as adaptation.
September 21, 2022
2021 Water Wise Award Presented by the Board of County Commissioners (Video)
For over 20 years, the Community Water Wise Award program has recognized attractive, water-conserving landscapes at homes, businesses, industries, or governments that protect the environment. The County and Tampa Bay Water sponsor this award, which is administered by Hillsborough County Extension. The winning landscapes have coupled attractive design with Florida-Friendly Landscaping, as well as irrigation systems or techniques that minimize water ...
September 19, 2022
Tampa Bay Water selects first portion of water pipeline route in South Hillsborough County
A 26-mile-long drinking water pipeline in Hillsborough County has received preliminary approval from Tampa Bay Water board members.
Tampa Bay Water picks 26-mile, $419 million route to south Hillsborough
Tampa Bay’s regional water supplier chose cost and quality over convenience Monday in picking where to put a new pipeline to serve fast-growing southern Hillsborough County.
September 15, 2022
Tampa City Council votes to kill latest wastewater reuse plan, will hold session to answer questions
TAMPA, Fla. — The years-long debate over how to handle the city of Tampa’s wastewater continued Thursday with Tampa city council members voting to end the city's current project that could divert heavily-treated wastewater to the city’s drinking water supply.
Tampa Bay Water Delivering More Drinking Water To Hillsborough County
Tampa Bay Water is now sending much-needed additional drinking water to Hillsborough County through temporary pumps at the utility’s Brandon Booster Station site on South Mount Carmel Road in Brandon. These pumps connect to and send more drinking water through the Brandon Transmission Main — up to 5 million gallons per day (mgd) of existing regional water supply — to Hillsborough County’s Lithia Water Treatment Plant before the permanent booster station facility is complete by the end of 2023.
September 13, 2022
Tampa wastewater reuse project under fire again
TAMPA — For years, environmentalists and Tampa city officials have sparred over what to do with about 50 million gallons per day of highly treated wastewater currently being dumped into Tampa Bay.
September 9, 2022
Tampa Bay got millions from legislators for local projects. Here’s what they are.
State lawmakers on Friday approved the dispersal of $175 million for more than 200 local projects across the state, including more than 30 in Tampa Bay.
September 7, 2022
The crisis in Jackson shows how climate change is threatening water supplies
The crisis that has hit Jackson, Miss., highlights the fragility of water systems across the country that will be increasingly vulnerable to the effects of climate change in the coming years.
August 15, 2022
More river water tapped to meet Tampa Bay’s future thirst
CLEARWATER — New tap water for the Tampa Bay region will come from an old source.
July 18, 2022
Tampa Temporarily Purchasing City Water From Tampa Bay Water
TAMPA, FL — The Tampa Water Department will be purchasing water from Tampa Bay Water for several weeks beginning Monday, July 18.
July 1, 2022
Intersection Of Durant And South Mount Carmel Roads Closed Beginning July 5
Beginning on Tuesday, July 5, the intersection of Durant and South Mount Carmel roads will be closed for construction through early August 2022, barring unforeseen conditions. Durant Road between Lumsden and Valrico roads, as well as Mandalay Road and South Mount Carmel Road between Lumsden and Durant roads, remain closed to through traffic. These closures are part of Tampa Bay Water’s new Brandon Booster Station construction on South Mount Carmel Road.
Denver downtown expert: As Tampa grows, here are three priorities it must address
Tampa's city proper grew at a higher clip between 2020 and 2021 than any of Florida's cities with more than 200,000 people.
Jun 21, 2022
Tampa Bay Water identifies three options for $300 million+ pipeline route in South County
South Hillsborough County's future depends on a new drinking water pipeline that will cost over $300 million and measure anywhere from 36 inches to 72 inches.
June 14, 2022
Survey Open For South Hillsborough Pipeline Routes
Tampa Bay Water is seeking input from Hillsborough County residents on its South Hillsborough Pipeline. The utility is building this new pipeline to meet the increasing water demands of southern Hillsborough County. Residents can visit www.tampabaywater.org/shp to complete a short survey to provide input on the three routes under consideration. The survey opened today, June 14, and closes on Friday, July 8. Residents may also sign up for a telephone town hall meeting for Tuesday, July 12 to provide input.
June 10, 2022
Durant Road Closes To Through Traffic June 13 Through August 2022, South Mount Carmel Road Also Closed To Through Traffic
Beginning on Monday, June 13, Durant Road between Lumsden and Valrico roads in Brandon will be closed to through traffic until early August 2022, barring unforeseen conditions. South Mount Carmel Road remains closed to through traffic during this time. These closures are part of Tampa Bay Water’s new Brandon Booster Station, to be constructed on South Mount Carmel Road.
May 25, 2022
Plant Profile: Tampa Bay Seawater Desalination Plant
The importance of a desalination plant cannot be understated in locales such as the Florida peninsula. The Tampa Bay Seawater Desalination facility is a drought-proof, alternative water supply providing up to 25 million gallons per day (mgd) of drinking water to more than 2.5 million people in the Tampa Bay region.
April 15, 2022
Too Much of Not Enough: Without infrastructure changes, South Hillsborough County’s challenges are destined to persist
New and old residents are clamoring for the infrastructure gap to be closed, and new government dollars may help. But as the population grows, one core challenge remains: South County doesn't yet know what it wants to be.
March 17, 2022
South Hillsborough’s taps could be bolstered by reclaimed water
Providing new water to residents in fast-growing southern Hillsborough County could be aided by injecting old water into the ground.
March 11, 2022
'It's pristine old Florida': Starkey Preserve blends people, nature at 18,000-acre oasis
NEW PORT RICHEY, Fla. - Every day in Florida, residents see habitat loss due to development to meet the needs of the state’s growing population, but Starkey Preserve gives visitors a glimpse into the past and future where mankind and nature coexist.
February 8, 2022
Tampa Bay Water: Population growth means millions more gallons needed by 2028
Tampa Bay Water says it’s currently working on a feasibility study to map out potential future water sources and what new infrastructure may be necessary as more people continue to call the Bay Area home.
November 12, 2021
Grow with the flow: Largest public works project in Tampa history is the foundation for the city’s business growth
Tampa’s population is surging and its business climate is buzzing. But growth exacerbates a major problem: The city’s water system is old, faulty and in desperate need of replacement.
November 1, 2021
Sustainable Living: Tampa Bay Water and Southside Fresh Market St. Pete
During today’s sustainable living show (11/01/2021), we talked to Amelia Brown and Brandon Moore from Tampa Bay water. Later in the show we also talked to Ramona Brayboy who is in charge of the Sunshine Fresh Market in St. Pete.
October 27, 2021
Around Pasco: Tampa Bay Water gets new GM
CLEARWATER — Tampa Bay Water’s board of directors ended its search for a new leader after voting 7-0 to approve an employment agreement with Charles H. "Chuck" Carden, making him the utility’s fourth general manager since it was created in 1998.
October 15, 2021
Better Water At The Source Means Better Water From The Tap
Local residents can play a role in ensuring the water coming out of their faucets is the best quality possible and they can do so with funding from Tampa Bay Water.
September 10, 2021
Rapidly growing South Hillsborough County needs more water
Wholesale supplier Tampa Bay Water is trying to forecast and meet demand for drinking water.
September 1, 2021
Oxygen shortage could have long-term impacts on Tampa water system
TAMPA, Fla. - The COVID-19 pandemic is causing another shortage. So much oxygen is needed for hospital patients that it’s putting liquid oxygen in short supply.
August 31, 2021
Florida’s COVID Surge Is Taxing Its Ability to Purify Drinking Water
Last week, the Tampa Bay water utility announced a rather bizarre side effect of Florida’s out-of-control COVID surge: It wasn’t getting enough deliveries of liquid oxygen to treat its water. More than 17,000 COVID patients—who require supplemental oxygen to stay alive—are now hospitalized across the state, and there isn’t enough oxygen to go around.County Supply Expansion Pipeline.
August 30, 2021
Smart sprinklers keep lawns green without wasting water
TAMPA, Fla. - James Dunleavy's old sprinkler controller didn't always work the way he wanted it to.
Some Florida utility companies relying on liquid oxygen change approaches as shortage continues
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — It’s been 10 days since Orlando Utilities Commission asked its customers to cut back on water use so it’s not forced to issue a citywide boil water alert.
August 27, 2021
Tampa Bay urged to conserve water to help COVID patients
The increased demand for liquid oxygen has created competition between local hospitals that need it for COVID patients, and the rest of us who need it for clean drinking water.
August 26, 2021
Tampa Bay Water changes water treatment process due to liquid oxygen shortage
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla (WFLA) – Hillsborough County is warning residents that they may notice a change in the smell and taste of their drinking water soon as the ongoing surge in COVID-19 cases forces the water supplier to change its treatment process.
Hillsborough County residents may notice changes in drinking water due to lack of liquid oxygen
TAMPA, Fla. — Starting Thursday, Hillsborough County residents may notice their water tastes and smell different. The county is making changes due to a lack of liquid oxygen, which is used to treat water, because of the pandemic.
Tampa Bay Water alters water treatment because of lack of liquid oxygen amid COVID-19 surge
Tampa Bay Water is temporarily changing treatment at a facility servicing south Hillsborough County starting Thursday because of a lack of liquid oxygen deliveries amid Florida’s COVID-19 outbreak.
August 25, 2021
Tampa Bay Water asks users to cut back as COVID-19 saps oxygen supplies
Efforts to keep the sickest COVID-19 patients breathing are draining resources across the state and in Tampa Bay — creating competition between hospitals and municipal water systems for crucial supplies of liquid oxygen.
Hillsborough tap water may taste, smell different due to coronavirus pandemic
TAMPA, Fla. - Tampa Bay Water is changing the way it treats water at one of its plants due to a lack of liquid oxygen, and residents in parts of Hillsborough County may notice a change in the taste and smell of their water.
Liquid Oxygen Shortage For COVID-19 Treatment Means Hillsborough Water Is Being Treated With Bleach
Hillsborough County officials say the water still meets local, state and federal regulations, but may have a different taste and smell.
August 19, 2021
Hillsborough, Port Tampa Bay, water utility seek link between Piney Point and Red Tide
Hillsborough’s Environmental Protection Commission is told to be prepared to seek legal remedies.
July 28, 2021
Tampa Bay Water Wants Public Input For New Project
Each day, Tampa Bay Water provides drinking water to more than 2.5 million customers in the Tampa Bay area. The region’s growing population is creating a need for the utility to plan for a changing future, in which it said at least an additional 10 million gallons of water a day will be needed by 2028 to support anticipated growth.
Water issues plague the Tampa Bay region
From low water pressure in south Hillsborough County caused by rapid development to a massive fish kill in Pinellas County waters caused by Red Tide, and the Piney Point disaster in April where a long dormant phosphate plant dumped nearly 200 millions of gallons of nitrogen-rich wastewater into Tampa Bay, it’s been a rough year for water in the region.
July 27, 2021
Looking to add some interest to your landscape?
When Joel Jackson wants a little adventure, he just picks up his camera and goes for a field trip — without ever leaving his yard.
July 23, 2021
Extension Pinellas County Offering Waters Stewardship Program
The course takes place between Aug. and Nov. and gives participants a chance learn about practices and policies affecting Florida waters.
July 1, 2021
Hillsborough water woes: South county trickle brings torrent of complaints
Hillsborough County plans hundreds of millions of dollars worth of utility improvements for its fast-growing southern region, an area that remains on irrigation restrictions through 2022 to preserve water supplies.
June 29, 2021
Tampa Bay Water's budget includes slight rate increase
CLEARWATER — Tampa Bay Water’s Board of Directors approved the utility’s fiscal year 2022 budget, which includes a 0.17% increase in the uniform water rate.
June 23, 2021
Pasco MPO board turns up heat on Port Richey
The Pasco Metropolitan Planning Organization’s board delivered the City of Port Richey a clear message earlier this month: Start showing up consistently or get booted from the board.
June 11, 2021
Tampa launches contest to promote water-wise landscaping
It doesn’t have to be xeriscape – meaning plants that require little or no irrigation. It just needs to be water-wise.
June 3, 2021
Pasco award winners conserve water by example
Selecting turf, shrubbery, trees and other plant life for use around the home or business involves much more than aesthetics or price points.
May 29, 2021
Tampa Bay Water has a steady flow of tips to help you save water this Memorial Day Weekend
Tampa Bay Water has a steady flow of tips to help you save water this Memorial Day Weekend. Check out the info below then visit Tampa Bay Water's page to find more ...
May 20, 2021
Bay area growth driving a need for more water in the future
TAMPA, Fla. — In less than seven years, the Tampa Bay area will need a lot more clean water.
May 11, 2021
Pinellas County news briefs – May 11, 2021
CLEARWATER – Tampa Bay Water’s proposed 2022 budget calls for a slight increase in the uniform water rate: $2.5634/1,000 gallons, an increase of 0.17% ($0.0044) over the current year.
May 6, 2021
Fixes for water problems in South Hillsborough County coming in 2024, 2026 and 2028
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. – People in South Hillsborough County are now able to learn more about a plan to fix water issues in their communities, including boil water notices, rules on when you can water your lawn and water pressure problems.
April 22, 2021
Program aims to teach water-friendly gardening in St. Pete
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – An organization dedicated to keeping Bay Area water clean is working with the community to protect the area's drinking water supply.
April 21, 2021
Hillsborough okays water rate increases through 2025
TAMPA – The price of a gallon of tap water is going up in Hillsborough County.
Earth Week: Saving water saves planet – and money, Tampa Bay conservationist says
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) – It’s Earth Week, and 8 On Your Side is looking at ways you can help improve climate change and improve your life. Talking about conserving water doesn’t have to be a drag in the way that we live our lives. Thanks to technology and innovation, we can make small changes that make big impacts.
April 15, 2021
Piney Point threat to Tampa Bay Water desalination plant diminishes
TAMPA – The potential threat to a regional water source from a contamination spill in Manatee County has eased, officials said Thursday, even as the state revealed a continuing leak at the closed Piney Point phosphate plant.
April 1, 2021
April is water conservation month, here's how you can do your part
PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. – Pinellas county officias say seasonal reclaimed water restrictions start today, April 1 and runs through Wednesday, June 30.
March 30, 2021
Water district announces success of aquifer recovery efforts
The Southwest Florida Water Management District, in partnership with Tampa Bay Water, recently announced the successful environmental recovery efforts of the Northern Tampa Bay Water Use Caution Area.
March 24, 2021
Some dried-up wetlands from Tampa Bay ‘Water Wars’ have recovered, officials say
In the late 1990s, when Tampa Bay’s “Water Wars” raged, wells were pumping so much water from underground that some lakes and wetlands had begun to dry out.
March 17, 2021
Florida Botanical Gardens and Tampa Bay Water team up on educational outreach
LARGO, Fla. — The Florida Botanical Gardens Foundation is stepping up its education outreach thanks to a community partner that cares just as much about the environment as they do.
March 5, 2021
Hillsborough plans utility rate hikes for next four years
TAMPA — Lay all the pipes owned by Hillsborough County’s utilities department end to end and the pipeline would stretch from Tampa to Los Angeles and then continue nearly to Honolulu.
March 3, 2021
Toilet-to-tap: Water reclamation bill rushes through Senate, House committees, but questions remain
The House version of a reclaimed water bill (HB 263) sponsored by Rep. Randy Maggard passed the Environmental, Agriculture and Flooding Subcommittee 17-0, but not without question.
Florida Business Groups Wade into Wetlands Permitting Fight
TALLAHASSEE — The Florida Chamber of Commerce and a major developers’ group are seeking to intervene in a high-stakes lawsuit over a move by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to shift permitting authority to the state for projects that affect wetlands.
March 2, 2021
Rebates Available for Smart Water Use
Making smart choices about how water is used in a home or business can mean a little extra money in a budget thanks to a water-saving program offered by Tampa Bay Water, its member governments and the Southwest Florida Water Management District.
Monthly Siren Tests Ensure Safety of Reservoir’s Neighbors
If you are out and about in the Lithia and FishHawk areas at 9 a.m. on the first Wednesday of each month and hear the wails of warning sirens coming from the vicinity of the C.W. Bill Young Regional Reservoir, there is no reason to be concerned about what might follow.
February 10, 2021
What safety precautions are in place to protect Tampa Bay water supply systems?
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) – A hacker was recently able to remotely access a water treatment system, potentially endangering nearly 15,000 people in the Tampa Bay area. 8 On Your Side investigates is looking into the threat and whether it could happen again.
January 24, 2021
2020 Community Water-Wise Award Winners Have Friendly Landscapes
The Community Water Wise Awards, sponsored by Tampa Bay Water, a regional municipal water provider, recognize individuals and businesses committed to conserving our water resources and protecting the environment by using Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ (FFL) principles.
January 12, 2021
Tampa renews push for reusing wastewater
TAMPA – Out with the TAP, in with the PURE.
January 6, 2021
TAMPA, Fla — No need to evacuate just yet.
On Wednesday morning, Tampa Bay Water will be testing its sirens at C.W. Bill Young Regional Reservoir in south Hillsborough County.
December 22, 2020
Better smelling and tasting water for Tampa? City launches pilot with high hopes
TAMPA – Dr. Jacimaria Batista is an expert on water, particularly municipal water systems.
December 9, 2020
Tampa water main fixed, test results clean. But city isn’t back to normal yet.
TAMPA – All repairs to the damaged water main that nearly drained the city’s clean water supply were completed Wednesday and the first round of tests show no contamination in Tampa’s drinking water.
November 6, 2020
Source Water Protection Grant Applications Due Soon
Tampa Bay Water is looking for partners to help prevent water pollution and protect the sources of our drinking water. If you are a non-profit, community group, school or university located in the counties of Hillsborough, Pasco or Pinellas, you could be eligible for a Source Water Protection Mini-grant. Applications are due November 15.
November 5, 2020
Tampa Water Department customers may be eligible for a $100 Water Wise rebate
The Tampa Water Department Conservation Team recently visited a local Home Depot to install signs to inform the public about the availability of Tampa Bay Water-Wise rebates. Eligible households replacing older toilets may qualify for a $100 rebate for purchasing a water-efficient toilet.
September 29, 2020
Ybor City, dominoes and porch politics: Charlie Miranda is Tampa old-school
The Tampa where Charlie Miranda grew up is slowly disappearing. It’s a world of domino tables and cigar shops and gathering spots filled with old men who grew up in Ybor City and West Tampa, natives long outnumbered here by newcomers.
September 16, 2020
Well, Well, Well
In the 1990s, lakes and wetlands dried up in Florida’s fast-growing Tampa Bay region. Some attributed the drastic change to drought; others to overpumping of an underground aquifer. A pitched legal battle, known as the Water Wars, played out. Some government-run utilities wanted to keep pumping from the aquifer; others wanted to look for new water sources. Eventually, they began to work together to find multiple sources of drinking water.
August 24, 2020
Hillsborough County Enforcing Water Restrictions While Offering Tips And Grants
Just as it’s wise to save money for a ‘rainy day,’ it can also be a good idea to conserve water when the aquifer and local reservoirs are replenished with help from the summer’s frequent afternoon storms.
August 17, 2020
Tampa airport board files lawsuit in ‘forever chemical’ contamination case
The lawsuit alleges firefighting foam left PFAS in places including at Tampa International Airport.
August 14, 2020
Tampa Bay Water Wise Program Aims To Save Water And Money
Rebates are available to Pasco County residents, businesses and contractors.
June 26, 2020
Fitch Affirms Tampa Bay Water, FL's Utility System Revs at 'AA+'; Outlook Stable
Fitch Ratings - Austin - 26 Jun 2020: Fitch Ratings has affirmed the 'AA+' ratings on the following Tampa Bay Water, A Regional Water Supply Authority, FL's (TBW) outstanding revenue bonds ...
June 24, 2020
Tampa Bay Water approves 2021 budget with no rate increase
CLEARWATER —Tampa Bay Water’s Board of Directors approved the utility’s 2021 fiscal year operating budget with no rate increase, maintaining a wholesale drinking water rate of $2.56 per 1,000 gallons for the 10th consecutive year.
June 8, 2020
Silver Ring Café Leads By Example To Provide Meals To Essential Workers & Foster Kids
The Silver Ring Café has been a staple in the Riverview area for more than 26 years and recently it has been working to make an even bigger difference in the community.
June 5, 2020
Local Student Wins National Award, Water Wise Info & More
Tampa Bay Water has extended the landscape application submission deadline to Monday, August 31 for the Community Water Wise Awards. The awards, sponsored by Tampa Bay Water, were created to recognize individuals and businesses committed to conserving water resources and protecting the environment by using Florida-Friendly Landscaping principles.
June 3, 2020
2020 Community Water Wise Awards program
Does your landscape have what it takes to win?
May 22, 2020
Water conservation program aims to save up to 11 m gallons a day
a day Rebates available to residents, business owners and contractors in Tampa Bay region
May 21, 2020
It’s time to modernize drinking water standards | Column
Since 2000, no new contaminants have been covered by the federal Safe Water Drinking Act.
May 19, 2020
Tampa Bay Water files ‘forever chemicals’ lawsuit against DuPont, 3M
The utility serves more than 2.5 million customers. A spokesperson said Tampa Bay Water has not detected dangerous levels of the chemicals in its supply but is taking an 'initial step’ amid evolving science.
Get Money Back for Saving Water
Residents and business owners in participating areas including Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas counties and the cities of St. Petersburg and New Port Richey may qualify for Tampa Bay Water Wise program rebates.
May 11, 2020
Tampa Bay Water offers rebates for certain home improvements
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. — With many people staying home during the COVID-19 pandemic, many homeowners are using the time to complete projects around their house.
May 6, 2020
2020 Community Water Wise Awards Program Seeks Applications
Does your landscape have what it takes to win? Enter today to find out!
May 5, 2020
Rebates available through new water conservation programs
CLEARWATER — Five local governments are partnering with Tampa Bay Water and the Southwest Florida Water Management District to save water in the Tampa Bay region.
March 16, 2020
Coronavirus in Florida: The latest on cases, closures, cancellations and all your questions answered
Amid a rapidly changing situation, the Tampa Bay Times is talking to experts and mining the web to keep you up to date with reliable, factual information.
February 10, 2020
Tampa’s ‘Toilet to Tap’ water plan threatened by state legislation
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) – One of Tampa’s most controversial plans is coming back up into conversation among the city’s residents.
Is Tampa going its own way on toilet-to-tap?
TAMPA — Is the city’s hot-button plan to convert highly-treated wastewater to drinking water really dead?
January 7, 2020
City of Tampa homeowners could see increase on utility bill
TAMPA, Fla. - Homeowners living in the Tampa city limits could see changes to their utility bills this month.
Tampa Bay Water has an interesting history and many stories that make us who we are. Book someone from Tampa Bay Water’s Speakers Bureau to share our stories and history with you and your organization.
Tampa Bay Water’s Speakers Bureau is available to schools, universities, community organizations and civic groups to share knowledge and expertise on topics related to water, treatment, environmental stewardship, source water protection, conservation and more.
Tampa Bay Water was formed 25 years ago to reduce the region’s reliance on groundwater and enable environmental recovery in northern Tampa Bay. And that we did. By adding river...
In February 2020, Tampa Bay Water’s board of directors approved the agency to pursue refinancing for three different bond issuances. Two were completed in 2020 and 2021. The final issuance...
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is set to issue new regulations for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, more commonly known as PFAS, in January 2024. PFAS do not originate...
Water demand in south Hillsborough County continues to grow. The average 12-month demand in southern Hillsborough grew by 4 million gallons per day (mgd) to 56.3 mgd through June 2023....
Every year, Tampa Bay Water offers grant funding to community groups, nonprofits and educational institutions for projects that help protect the Tampa Bay region’s drinking water sources. The application period...
