Water Around Orlando Drying Up says St. Johns Chief Water Planner. By Geniusofdespair

Luckily, everyone in Orlando doesn't need water.

The greater Orlando area has just about tapped out the Floridan aquifer as its sole supply of water:

"The use of underground water in the Central Florida area around Orlando, including Polk County, is nearing its maximum. "This should come as no surprise." So says Hal Wilkening about a new in-depth analysis of Central Florida's water needs throughout the next two decades.

That the remark comes from Wilkening is significant, because he is the chief water supply planner for the St. Johns River Water Management District.

The study Wilkening refers to was just completed by the Central Florida Water Initiative. It is considered the most scientifically exhaustive and accurate assessment of the region's water needs. The findings are, indeed, no surprise, but rather confirm what many have known for a long time: The greater Orlando area has just about tapped out the Floridan aquifer as its sole supply of water."

And:

"Once consumption in the region hits 850 million gallons per day, which is expected before 2020, the CFWI says further pumping of the aquifer will results in "significant" environmental damage to springs, wetlands and other water bodies.

The study also says the region will need 1.1 billion gallons per day by 2035 and needs to begin figuring out where to find that extra water."