MARCH 2026 HIGHLIGHTS

Last month, Palm Beach County hosted a series of Flood and Seal Level Rise Risk Assessment public workshops, funded through the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Resilient Florida program. These workshops keep the community informed and involved as the County assesses flood risk and exposure throughout six municipalities: the Village of Golf, Town of Hypoluxo, Village of Palm Springs, Town of Cloud Lake, Town of Glen Ridge, and Town of Haverhill. At these workshops, the team shared its progress, got stakeholder feedback, and outlined next steps. Although most of these workshops were held in February, the Village of Palm Springs Workshop will be held on March 12, 2026, at 226 Cypress Lane, Palm Springs, FL 33461 at 6:30pm. Please register for either in-person or virtual here.

In South Florida, the year is defined by two distinct seasons rather than four: a long dry season that typically runs from November through June, followed by a shorter wet season for the remainder of the year. During the dry season, winds mostly bring cooler, drier continental air instead of moisture from the Gulf or Caribbean, resulting in significantly less rainfall. As the dry season progresses, water levels across the Kissimmee–Okeechobee–Everglades (KOE) watershed system, Palm Beach County’s primary water source, gradually decline and often reach their lowest point in late spring.

Lower surface water levels can affect the Florida aquifer, our main source of drinking water. Freshwater in the aquifer creates the pressure that keeps denser seawater from moving inland. When groundwater levels drop, that protective pressure weakens, increasing the risk of saltwater intrusion, a process that can take years to reverse. During prolonged dry periods, utilities may increase groundwater pumping or adjust supply sources to maintain service, which requires additional energy and careful system management.

Dry conditions also raise wildfire risk, particularly in natural areas such as the Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge, Grassy Waters Preserve, and nearby Wildlife Management Areas. Lightning is the most common natural ignition source, though human activity remains the leading cause statewide. Drought and fire are natural components of the South Florida ecosystem, and when fires pose no threat to life or property, they may be monitored and allowed to burn under controlled conditions.



What can you do?

Residents can help protect Palm Beach County’s water supply during the dry season by reducing water use both indoors and outdoors. Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth or washing dishes, repair leaks promptly, and run appliances only with full loads. Avoid over-irrigating lawns, especially during cooler days when grass requires less water. Follow your assigned watering days and adjust sprinkler systems so they do not run during or immediately after rainfall. Stay informed about any water usage restrictions enacted by the South Florida Water Management District, as voluntary or mandatory measures may be implemented depending on regional Water Shortage | South Florida Water Management District

Wildfire prevention is equally critical during dry periods. There is currently a burn ban in effect in Palm Beach County, which prohibits all outdoor open flames, including campfires and the burning of yard debris or trash. Dry vegetation and low humidity significantly increase fire risk, and even small sparks can spread quickly. Monitoring official updates and complying with burn restrictions helps protect natural areas, drinking water resources, and public safety across the county: Burn Ban Public Dashboard. The Florida Forest Service provides an easy-to-use tool to track the status of wildfires across the state: fiResponse - Public Viewer.

Energy Efficient Building Construction in Florida Now Available at UF/IFAS Bookstore

Energy Efficient Building Construction in Florida is now available through the UF/IFAS Bookstore, serving as the new distribution home for this long-standing resource on energy-efficient design and construction in Florida’s climate. Widely used as study material for the Florida Building Code exam, the guide provides practical insight into siting and passive design, insulation, HVAC systems, duct design, water heating, lighting, and more. It remains a trusted reference for builders, designers, and construction professionals working to meet or exceed Florida’s energy standards. Formerly distributed through the UF Center for Land Use Efficiency (CLUE), the publication continues to be developed by CLUE, with UF/IFAS collaborating on updates and future editions. The transition to the UF/IFAS Bookstore improves long-term availability and provides 24/7 online access for ordering. For more details, check out the communications blog: Energy-Efficient Construction for Florida Builders and order your copy: Energy Efficient Building Construction in Florida

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has rescinded the endangerment finding that previously determined greenhouse gases pose a risk to public health and welfare under the Clean Air Act. The original finding, issued in 2009, served as the legal basis for federal regulation of carbon dioxide and other heat-trapping emissions from vehicles, power plants, and industrial sources. With the finding now withdrawn, the regulatory foundation for many existing greenhouse gas standards has changed, and agencies will need to reassess how they address emissions under current statutory frameworks.

More information here: Final Rule: Rescission of the Greenhouse Gas Endangerment Finding and Motor Vehicle Greenhouse Gas Emission Standards Under the Clean Air Act | US EPA. 

REfashion Weekend 2026 at Resource Depot

March 6, 7 & 9

Refresh your wardrobe, reduce waste, and support Resource Depot’s programs that inspire creativity and uplift the community—proof that being sustainable can be chic! Make sure to buy your ticket in advance. Different thrifting opportunities are offered each day of this fabulous event! REfashion Weekend at Resource Depot

Nature Fest 2026 at MacArthur Beach State Park

Saturday, March 7, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

John D. MacArthur Beach State Park

This family-friendly event will feature environmental exhibitors, live music, Florida native plant vendors, a touch tank, food trucks, Kids Zone, kayaking, and much more!

Opening of Story Stroll Celebration at Grassy Waters Preserve

Saturday, March 14, 3 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Grassy Waters Preserve

Get ready to experience Sam the Snail Kite story in a whole new way! Enjoy a family-friendly festival from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. or from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. for a book signing and sunset stroll. This event is free for all ages, and no pre-registration is required.

Florida Native Plant Society Palm Beach County Chapter Meeting

Tuesday, March 17, 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.

UF/IFAS Mounts Botanical Garden Auditorium

Get ready for an evening all about the wild and wonderful Native Orchids of Palm Beach County with Bethany Simpson from FAU’s Pine Jog Environmental Education Center! Free and open to all.

Get Involved! Palm Beach County Volunteer Opportunity

Thursday, March 26, 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Lake Osborne Boat Ramp at John Prince Park

Join the PBC Department of Environmental Resources Management and fellow volunteers to help remove trash throughout the park. Register by emailing Ann Mathews: amathews@pbc.gov

City of Boca Raton Sustainable Yard Series: What is Happening to My Plant?! Pests and Disease Management in the Landscape

Tuesday, March 31, 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Boca Raton Spanish Library

Attend this free workshop on pest and disease management and learn simple, practical tips to keep your landscape healthy and thriving in our local climate. Register in advance to receive a free native plant to take home: Activities • Boca Raton, FL • CivicEngage

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