This Saturday, water usage restrictions across South Florida will take effect. There will be 15% cutbacks (Phase 1 restrictions) for agricultural uses and plant nurseries in certain areas in Palm Beach and Miami-Dade counties and golf course irrigation restrictions across most of the district. Two-day-a-week landscape irrigation restrictions will be enforced across the entire district.

These restrictions are a good first step. However, Audubon urges an upgrade to 45% cutbacks (Phase 3 restrictions) as soon as possible. All signs are pointing to this being a severe drought year and a proactive attempt to conserve as much water as possible now is strongly advised.

Lake Okeechobee is the back-up water supply for South Florida. If we don't protect the lake's traditional water level as best as possible with higher restrictions and increased conservation, the federally endangered Everglade Snail Kite (Kite) could be in serious trouble. Nesting pairs are already at or near all-time lows; another year without a healthy supply of freshwater in Lake Okeechobee could harm this iconic Florida bird for years.

Right now our kites are busy tending to their eggs and nestlings around Lake Okeechobee. Yet, the decisions made on our great lake's water levels will have a direct impact on whether their babies live or die.

As of March 14, there were 21 active Snail Kite nests on Lake Okeechobee.  To successfully fledge young from these nests, the Kites need about 2 months, 24-30 days for incubation, and 5-6 weeks before young Kites can achieve sustained flight.  The average water depth beneath the Kite nests is about 2 feet (60 cm), which could disappear within 2 months.

For additional coverage of the drought, including a quote from Audubon's Jane Graham, be sure to read this recent article from South Florida Sun-Sentinel.

Please bookmark this blog and check back early next week for a first-hand account of our own Dr. Paul Gray’s trip to Lake Okeechobee with scientists from the South Florida Water Management District. Dr. Gray will be reporting on the state of Kite nests on the lake and will explore other options to protect their vulnerable nests.

Remember, while these restrictions are mandatory, we can always do more to save water. Tell us: how do you conserve water and what can others do to encourage increased conservation practices in their communities? Post your replies in the comment section below or on our Protect the WEB Facebook Page.

Together, we will make a difference for the Everglade Snail Kite and Lake Okeechobee!

**UPDATE - Read Audubon's Dr. Paul Gray's account from Lake Okeechobee here.