Haines City to Benefit from Southwest Florida Water Management Grants

Four Polk County projects that are expected to reach about 6,000 residents were awarded Community Education Grants from the Southwest Florida Water Management District; two of these directly affect Haines City.

The goal of the Community Education Grant Program is to engage adults in water-related issues pertaining to conservation, protection and preservation. Funded by the district's Basin Boards, the program is intended to motivate communities to get involved in watershed protection through various activities and educational formats.

The first project is the "Water and Me" workshop that will take place at the Heritage Days Festival. Participants will learn how to conserve water in the landscape, use and maintain their irrigation system and reduce the use of fertilizers and pesticides.

This project will show Haines City-area residents how to conserve water inside and outside the home. Participants who complete a survey will receive conservation kits that include water conservation products and information. Grant funds will be used to purchase faucet aerators, shower timers, drip counters, hot water gauges and water hose nozzles for participants.The program's goal is to encourage residents to change water-wasting behaviors.

The second project is The Health Chic Earth Day event, which will feature Florida-friendly landscaping and the district's drought messaging. This event is Sunday, April 20th in historic downtown Haines City. Workshops will include Rain Barrels, Composting, Organic Gardening, and Florida Native Plants.

The Southwest Florida Water Management District's 2009 Community Education Grant Program will begin its application process in June 2008.

For details, please call the district's communications department at 1-800-423-1475 or 352-796-7211, ext. 4757. For the full story check out Polk Online

Easter Egg Hunt

The City of Haines City will host an Easter Egg Hunt on March 22nd at 10:00 AM. This event will be held at Larry Parrish Complex, 2401 Johnson Avenue and all children are invited to join in the fun!!

Bridal Show Cancelled

Due to lack of interest, the Haines City Main Street Bridal Show scheduled for March 2nd has been cancelled.

Hazardous Waste Clean-Up Day

Dispose of your household hazardous waste and electronics, SAFELY, and FREE of CHARGE.

March 22nd, 2008
Haines City Public Works Complex
300 North 5th Street
Haines City

Materials that will be collected include batteries, paint, polishes, automotive products, solvents, insecticides, tires, and electronics. No Business waste...Residential only! For more information, call 863-421-3777.