Florida State Senator Corey Simon posted this letter on his facebook page about 1 PM today, Tuesday, May 12, 2026. The Madison County Florida Board of County Commissioners also posted it.

WFNF is being canceled 2026-05-12, FL State Senator Corey Simon; What does this mean: in its current form?

Well, I hope that formerly “done deal” is undone.

A catch: a single state Senator does not have the power to undo it.

Another catch: nothing was said about this at the SRWMD Governing Board meeting this morning.

And a third: “the Water First North Florida project is being canceled in its current form.”

Does that mean some parts of it are canceled? Which parts? For example, is SJRWMD cancelling its three-year consultant contract involving wetland siting and pipeline routing?

So, cautious optimism.

And many thanks to Senator Corey Simon, who has long made it clear he opposes WFNF, for example at the SRWMD and SJRWMD dog and pony show at UF IFAS on March 19.

But I will be making some inquiries with SRWMD, SJRWMD, JEA, and Sen. Simon’s offfice.

SENATOR COREY SIMON
3rd District

May 12, 2026

Subject: Update on the Water First North Florida Project

Dear Neighbor,

I want to provide you with an important update regarding the Water First North Florida Project.

After careful review and continued conversations with local leaders, water experts, property owners, and concerned citizens across North Florida, the Water First North Florida project is being canceled in its current form. While the need to address low water levels in our aquifer remains very real, it has become clear that this proposal is not the right path forward for our communities at this time.

Protecting North Florida’s water supply is one of the most important responsibilities we have. Our springs, rivers, farms, homes, and future growth all depend on a healthy aquifer. However, any solution must be practical, transparent, locally informed, and built with the trust of the people who will be most affected.

I asked that all parties go back to the drawing board.

That means bringing stakeholders back to the table, listening closely to residents, evaluating the science, and working toward a better long-term solution to restore and protect our groundwater. North Florida deserves a plan that safeguards our natural resources while respecting our communities, our economy, and our way of life.

Iremain committed to finding a responsible solution to the low water challenges facing our aquifer. I will continue to keep you informed as this process moves forward and will make sure the voices of Senate District 3 are heard every step of the way.

Sincerely,

Senator Corey Simon
Florida Senate District 3

the Water First North Florida project is being canceled in its current form. 2026-05-12 –Florida State Senator Corey Simon

Cautious celebration!

WATER FIRST NORTH FLORIDA, 2025-07-08 –SRWMD Staff
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 -jsq, John S. Quarterman, Suwannee RIVERKEEPER®

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https://wwals.net/donations/

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