Mid-Florida Research and Education Center

Water Wednesday: New Residents Guide to Florida’s Environment

Water Wednesday is a UF/IFAS Extension education series that began in 2020. It originally launched as weekly Facebook Live sessions covering a wide range of water-related topics. In 2026, Water Wednesday is being refreshed with a new format and a clear focus: helping new Florida residents understand essential environmental topics during their first year in the state.

This updated Water Wednesday series is offered as a monthly Zoom webinar with practical, research-based information and opportunities for live interaction.

Who This Series Is For
This series is especially useful if you:
- Recently moved to Florida (or those planning to move to Florida)
- Homeowners and renters navigating Florida's climate, water use, and environmental conditions
- Residents looking for practical guidance on topics such as landscaping, stormwater, hurricanes, wildlife, septic systems, and natural resources
Long-term Florida residents are also welcome if you are interested in a refresher or supporting friends and family who are new to the state.

What To Expect
Each Water Wednesday is designed for a general public audience and focuses on common questions new residents often have, such as:
- What should I expect from Florida's seasons and storms?
- Where does my water come from, and how can I use it wisely?
- How do stormwater ponds and neighborhood drainage systems work?
- What is normal when it comes to pests, wildlife, mold, or home humidity?
- How can I prepare my home and landscape for storms and flooding?
Sessions typically include:
- A focused presentation by UF/IFAS Extension faculty or partners
- Live Q&A with presenters
- Interactive quiz questions to encourage participation
- A door prize drawing for participants who complete the quizzes
- A recap blog and recording posted after each webinar

How to Participate

Register once on Zoom to access the full webinar series. Each seminar will take place via Zoom from 2 - 3 p.m. (ET).

2026 Webinar Schedule

Recordings and blog recaps for the 2026 New Resident Series will be added below after each sessions. Each recap blog includes key takeaways from the webinar, highlights from audience questions, a link to the webinar recording, and related UF/IFAS Extension Resources.

February 25 - Florida Weather and Seasons: How Water Shapes Our Climate
March 25 - Florida Water 101: Where Your Water Comes From and How to Use It Wisely
April 15 - Florida-Friendly Landscaping: Designing a Yard for Florida Conditions
May 20 - Stormwater 101: Understanding Drainage, Ponds, and How Florida Manages Rainwater
June 17 - Hurricane Preparedness: A Guide for New Florida Residents
July 15 - Understanding Florida Homes: Humidity, Mold, and Energy Use
August 19 - Summer Lawn and Irrigation Care: Managing Water Use and Lawn Stress
September 23 - Living with Florida Wildlife and Pests: What is Normal and What is Not
October 21 - Septic and Sewer Basics: What Florida Homeowners Should Know
November 18 - Florida's Natural Resources: Enjoying Springs, Lakes, Wetlands, and Coasts Responsibly

About Water Wednesday

Water Wednesday is part of UF/IFAS Extension’s ongoing efforts to provide accessible, science-based information that helps Florida residents make informed decisions about water use, environmental stewardship, and household resilience.

This page focuses on the refreshed 2026 Water Wednesday series for new residents. Earlier Water Wednesday recordings can be found on the UF IFAS Extension Water Resource YouTube channel.

Questions about the Water Wednesday series, please contact the Water Resources Regional Specialized Agent Dr. Yilin Zhuang.