Since Rick Scott took on the role of Governor of Florida, there's been a lot of discussion over his actions regarding Florida water -- particularly, the Florida Water Management Districts and how much power they have and how that power is used. For example, check out this September 2011 article from the Orlando Sentinel that opines Scott wants to control all Florida waterways by bringing water decisions under a central control.

Florida Water Districts Selling Surplus Land

One result we're seeing now:  Florida water districts may be selling off lands that they own because they need the cash flow and the lands are not critical to the water districts' raison d'etre.  Consider this:  St. John's Water Management District is currently reviewing every single acre it owns, all 705,000+ acres of it, to see what could be sold off.

Not everyone is happy about this.  Some are very worried at the environmental impact of these land sales.  Others are considering the cost in the long run to taxpayers. Their cost-benefit analysis argues developing this real estate isn't good for Florida.

Others are watching this process with anticipation.  These water districts do have land which could be used for development, and the districts should be offering the acreage at a good price.

St. John's Water Management District In Process of Assessing Land Holdings

Last month, St. John's Water Management District had its first public meeting so anyone interested in the decision making here could put in their two cents worth.  They'll have more; in fact, one was on the schedule for last night at the Volusia County Council Chambers and the SJWMD will be announcing more of these meetings later in the year. 

You can also send a message to the St. John's Water Management District Powers that Be regarding this land assessment for potential sale of surplus lands online in a "comment form" here. 

Here's a video from the SJWMD that gives an overview of their land assessment: