Putnam County acknowledges Phase 1 water shortage and extends burn ban amid drought

Putnam County officials on Feb. 24 told residents the St. Johns River Water Management District has placed the county in a Phase 1 water shortage and encouraged voluntary reductions in water use as staff recommended extending the county burn ban to reduce wildfire risk.

County staff said the Phase 1 designation covers domestic, utility and commercial users and that wasteful and unnecessary use of water is prohibited under the district’s guidance. Staff warned residents and businesses to plan for extended dry conditions and the potential for tighter restrictions if drought conditions persist.

Emergency and operations staff described recent isolated rainfall but emphasized that humidity, high winds and low fuel moisture continue to create conditions for rapid fire spread. Mr. Grimes told the board that crews saw multiple quick-start fires last week, that county crews and the Florida Forest Service have been able to contain incidents, and that the county remains vigilant.

Commissioner Larry Harvey emphasized the statewide nature of the drought and urged residents to conserve. He said, "the lake I live on can use 9 feet of water to get it back to where it needs to be right now," and urged community vigilance.

The board agreed to extend the county burn ban (extensions are issued in one-week increments) and directed staff to continue coordination with municipal partners and with WastePro on debris-pickup options during red-flag periods. County staff said large debris piles can be handled by county equipment and reminded residents of collection centers in Interlachen and Crescent City.

Staff noted enforcement is available under the county ordinance and encouraged residents to report observed fires or hazardous conditions so crews can respond quickly. Commissioners asked staff to explore whether additional debris pickup or contractual flexibility could be arranged during periods of extremely high fire risk.

The extension is operational immediately; residents should follow instructions from the St. Johns River Water Management District and county emergency services for voluntary and mandatory restrictions as conditions evolve.