CS for CS for SB 918 Summary

• Creates the Florida Shared-Use Nonmotorized Trail Network as part of the state transportation system with minimum $50 million annual funding beginning fiscal year 2015-2016

• Establishes the Florida Springs and Aquifer Protection Act to protect Outstanding Florida Springs through minimum flows/water levels, priority focus areas, basin management action plans, and restrictions on harmful activities like new large wastewater facilities and onsite sewage systems on small lots

• Creates the Florida Water Resources Advisory Council to evaluate and recommend water resource projects for state funding based on competitive criteria emphasizing impact on water quality and quantity

• Requires water management districts to adopt recovery or prevention strategies when springs or water bodies fall below established minimum flows or water levels, with 20-year targets and 5/10/15-year measurable milestones

• Expands water resource development assistance to include self-suppliers, authorizes pilot alternative water supply projects in restricted allocation areas, and requires comprehensive reporting on water projects, minimum flows, and springs protection efforts