Peace River Manasota Reservoir Drops to Half Full Amid Ongoing Drought

The crucial water source for Sarasota, DeSoto, and Charlotte counties is facing a severe shortage as drought conditions persist.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Peace River Manasota reservoir, which supplies water to Sarasota, DeSoto, and Charlotte counties including North Port, has dropped to only 50% capacity amid an ongoing drought. The reservoir usually holds 6 billion gallons of water but is now at a critically low level, with the region facing a 13-inch water deficit. The Southwest Florida Water Management District and the Peace River Manasota Regional Water Supply Authority are urging residents to conserve water until the rainy season returns.

Why it matters

The Peace River Manasota reservoir is a crucial water source for the region, and its low levels pose a serious threat to the communities that rely on it. The ongoing drought is not just a local problem, but is affecting 18 million people across Florida, underscoring the need for effective water conservation efforts.

The details

The Peace River Manasota reservoir, which is normally 70-80% full at this time of year, is currently only 50% full. The region draws about 30 million gallons of water from the reservoir every day, but with water levels sinking, the water management district and the regional water supply authority are urging residents to be more careful with their water usage.

  • The Peace River Manasota reservoir is usually 70-80% full at this time of year.
  • The region is currently facing a 13-inch water deficit.
  • The steady, soaking rain needed to refill the system rarely arrives until June.

The players

Richard Anderson

The executive director of the Peace River Manasota Regional Water Supply Authority.

Southwest Florida Water Management District

The agency that is working with the Peace River Manasota Regional Water Supply Authority to address the water shortage.

Peace River Manasota Regional Water Supply Authority

The regional agency that manages the Peace River Manasota reservoir and is urging residents to conserve water.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Right now we're at 50% capacity. That might sound like a lot, but with three months left in the dry season, that's really not that much water on hand.”

— Richard Anderson, Executive Director, Peace River Manasota Regional Water Supply Authority

What’s next

The Southwest Florida Water Management District and the Peace River Manasota Regional Water Supply Authority will continue to monitor the reservoir levels and work with residents to implement water conservation measures until the rainy season returns.

The takeaway

The severe drought affecting the Peace River Manasota region highlights the fragility of water resources and the importance of proactive water conservation efforts. As climate change continues to impact weather patterns, communities across Florida will need to find sustainable ways to manage their water supplies to ensure reliable access to this vital resource.