News Release
For Immediate Release
Contact: Brandon Moorebmoore@tampabaywater.org(727) 791-2304
CLEARWATER, Fla. — Tampa Bay Water’s C.W. Bill Young Regional Reservoir has reached full capacity, thanks to the combined efforts of conservation-minded residents and the recent heavy rainfall brought by Tropical Storm Debby, along with Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
Tropical Storm Debby, in particular, delivered significant rainfall to the area, allowing Tampa Bay Water to add approximately 200 million gallons of water per day to the reservoir for storage. The reservoir went from 2.28 billion gallons to more than 15 billion gallons in three months.
C.W. Bill Young Regional Reservoir on June 25, 2024
C.W. Bill Young Regional Reservoir on October 18, 2024
"Our reservoir is full and ready for next year’s dry season,” said Warren Hogg, Chief Science Officer for Tampa Bay Water. "This achievement reflects both the resiliency of the regional water supply system and the commitment of our residents, member governments and Southwest Florida Water Management District to conserve.”
Rain from Debby and other storms increased and sustained river flows, enabling Tampa Bay Water to supply both the Tampa Bay Regional Surface Water Treatment Plant and the reservoir.
Surplus rain, flowing rivers and a full reservoir prompted the Southwest Florida Water Management District to rescind one day per week watering restrictions.
The Work for Conservation ContinuesIt remains important to continue conserving water. Residents are encouraged to skip irrigation cycles when rain is forecasted and use only the water needed inside homes.
Tampa Bay Water Wise is Tampa Bay Water’s regional water conservation program. Homeowners and businesses can be rewarded for their efforts to conserve water. Learn more at TampaBayWaterWise.org.
Tampa Bay Water is also accepting applications for its Water Conservation and Protection Mini-grant program. $50,000 in grant money is available to help fund projects and events by local community groups, nonprofit groups, schools and universities. Grants range from $2,000 to $10,000 for activities that help conserve water and protect regional drinking water sources and the ecosystem. Learn more and submit a project proposal at tampabaywater.org/mini-grant-funding.
Tampa Bay Water remains committed to ensuring a sustainable water future for the region and thanks the community for their continued support and conservation efforts.
About Tampa Bay Water
Tampa Bay Water is the largest wholesale water supplier in Florida, providing high-quality drinking water to its members, who in turn, supply water to more than 2.6 million residents of the Tampa Bay area. Tampa Bay Water member governments include Hillsborough, Pasco, and Pinellas counties and the cities of New Port Richey, St. Petersburg and Tampa. To learn more, visit tampabaywater.org.
For news media requests, please contact: Michelle Stom, MPA, APR Chief of Staff/Chief Strategy Officer O: (727) 791-2305 | M: (727) 418-4652 Brandon Moore, APR Public Communications Manager O: (727) 791-2304 | M: (727) 470-0702