AGRICULTURE PROGRAMS
Natural Resource Concerns
In partnership with USDA/Natural Resource Conservation Service the District works one-on-one with producers to create tailored conservation plans that identify practices and actions aimed at addressing on-farm resource challenges. By adopting Best Management Practices outlined in their plans, producers can enhance water and air quality, improve soil health, and foster better wildlife habitats, all while optimizing their agricultural productivity.
For additional information visit http://www.nrcs.usda.gov.
Nursery Overhead Efficiency Project
The project's goal is to minimize runoff in our local water sources and save energy by decreasing pump run time. Nursery growers from Indian River to Miami-Dade can replace their irrigation heads with more efficient mini wobbler heads at no cost. As of February 2026, the District has exchanged and installed over 37,000 heads, resulting in an estimated ANNUAL water savings of over 279.5 million gallons.
Pump Calibrations
The District provides irrigation pump calibration services to growers to help support compliance with South Florida Water Management District water-use permit requirements. Calibrations verify the accuracy of water-use measurement systems and provide the technical documentation needed for permit records. Following the field visit, growers receive a written calibration report documenting the results for their records and applicable regulatory requirements. Recalibration is generally required every five years.
PBC Ag Reserve
The District manages the Agricultural Reserve area, which spans more than 2,188 acres purchased by the County through the March 1999 Conservation Lands Bond. Serving as a liaison for the County, the District makes monthly visits to the farms and nurseries to monitor compliance with Best Practices (BMPs). These practices include nutrient and pesticide management, irrigation and safety procedures, soil conservation practices and buffers, erosion control, and sediment management. Comprehensive reports and photographs are provided to the County.