Pond Boss Forums POND CONSTRUCTION Selecting a site Northwest Florida Water Management

Does anyone on this forum have any experience working with the Northwest Florida Water Management District? Northwest FL Water Management I don't have any problems with them but would like to better understand their rules and processes. Also, if anyone has experience constructing ponds/lakes in this area I would be interested in a discussion - offline.

Some context:
I am buying 177 acres near Tallahassee and want to build a lake/pond. I have done much research (topo's, arial's, Soil Survey data for the site, talked with the NRCS, etc.) A representative from the Northwest Florida Water Management agency visited the site and said he would permit a 6 acre lake under agriculture use. I was hoping for ~ 10 acre lake. He said anything larger would need to go get a "recreational" permit and I could build a 25 acre lake. This permit would require a request from the DEP (department of environmental protection?). He doubted they would approve it. I have read the rules under Chapter 40A - XX (see bottom of link above), but don't see the size restriction language.

Again, I am looking for someone with experience in the Tallahassee area that was built lakes/ponds and/or has dealt with the permitting process there.

Paul,
I have dealt with Swiftmud, Southwest Florida Water District, when digging my pond in Sarasota, you probably have heard of them since you are in Tampa. Both agencies enforce water usage laws as well as county ordinances. They are the LAW and like all big agencies are difficult to deal with on personal matters. If you have talked directly with an agent I would follow his advice to the letter. I did find, as is usual, that once I got somebody's name, and kept talking to that person about my plans the friendlier and more helpful they became. The application for a larger lake will cost money to be sure so if you want a 10 acre lake get ready to buy the permits. Or get the 6 acre permit and keep digging. (not my suggestion)
Toby

You're so right Toby. I have 6 acres and want to dig a 1/3 acre pond. Once I got to a guy and had his name, several phone calls later he said to go ahead and do it, even faxed me a letter to that effect. Said that if neighbors complained someone would come check, but the complaint would have to have some grounds such as runoff etc.
I realize this is a small ond compare to yours, but I have heard of fines and making you fill them in.