ALACHUA COUNTY- The persistent water shortage that we have endured, despite a month of wet weather-- now means many of us can now only water our lawns just once a week. 

Area water management districts have convinced some local governments to place more stringent restrictions on watering. 

The Alachua County Commission approved an ordinance that would force residents and businesses in Archer as well as other unincorporated parts of the county to limit their water usage. 

They say Suwannee River Water Management has asked local governments to pass ordinances to limit water usage which could last until the end of September.

The Alachua County Environmental Protection Department director says, "This is not only protecting our drinking water, but it's also going to help our springs recover."

If Alachua County residents are caught over-watering their yards too many times... the end result would be a fine of $68.