Crystal River homeowners will see their water and sewer rates tick up for the first time since 2020, as the city moves ahead with plans to replace aging pipes and fund infrastructure upgrades. City leaders are also rolling out a new stormwater roadmap targeting 15 known flooding trouble spots around town, and Citrus County commissioners are set to meet Monday, August 17 to decide what comes next for the recently rejected Lecanto sand mine site. Behind the scenes, local scientists are running more than 56,000 lab tests a year to keep tabs on the health of the springs and rivers that define this community.

There's good news for local businesses too: this year's scallop season has been one of the strongest in recent memory, filling bags, boats, and cash registers across Citrus County. And nine Citrus County students are starting the school year with a little extra help after Women United awarded them scholarships to support their education.

If you're looking to get out of the house today, Howard's Flea Market hosts its weekly Farm Swap, and the Citrus County Gator Club kicks off its Annual Kick Off Party this evening. Grumpy Gators Bar & Grill has a Prime Rib Dinner special on tap, and Austin Stanley takes the stage at Bree's Riverside Restaurant tonight for some live music. And if all that sounds like a lot, remember it's also National Relaxation Day, so leave room in the schedule to slow down and enjoy the weekend.

Crystal River Water and Sewer Rates Set for First Increase Since 2020

Crystal River hasn't raised its water and sewer rates since 2020, but that's about to change. City officials point to aging pipes, rising operational costs, and millions of dollars in planned system upgrades as the driving forces behind the coming adjustment. The exact new rate structure hasn't been finalized publicly, but officials say the increase is needed to keep essential water and sewer service running reliably. Residents should expect to see the change reflected on upcoming utility statements. Read More -->

Commissioners Meet Monday to Decide What's Next at the Rejected Lecanto Sand Mine Site

Citrus County commissioners officially rejected the controversial Lecanto sand mine proposal, but that hasn't settled every question. Mining-related activity was already underway on the property before the denial, leaving officials to sort out what happens to that existing work now that the project has been turned down. Commissioners are set to meet Monday, August 17, to decide their next move on the site. Residents who fought against the mine will be watching closely to see whether the county orders an immediate halt to on-site activity. Read More -->

Crystal River Rolls Out Stormwater Roadmap Targeting 15 Flooding Trouble Spots

Crystal River has a new plan to tackle its most persistent flooding problems. The city's stormwater roadmap identifies 15 specific trouble spots around town where water regularly backs up during heavy rain, and lays out a plan to address each one. City leaders say the goal is to bring real infrastructure fixes to the neighborhoods that have been hit hardest over the years. The roadmap marks one of the city's more comprehensive efforts yet to get ahead of its drainage issues. Read More -->

Behind the Scenes: How Scientists Track the Health of Citrus County's Springs and Rivers

Keeping tabs on Citrus County's springs, rivers, and aquifers is a year-round operation. Scientists collect thousands of water samples and run more than 56,000 lab tests annually to monitor water quality and catch problems early. The data feeds into a broader picture of how the county's waterways are holding up under growing pressure from development and tourism. It's the kind of unglamorous, ongoing work that keeps the area's signature clear water clear. Read More -->

Strong 2026 Scallop Season Fills Bags, Boats, and Local Businesses

This year's scallop season is shaping up to be one of the stronger ones in recent memory, with plentiful scallops drawing a steady wave of visitors to Citrus County's waters. Boaters and snorkelers have been filling their bags along the Nature Coast, and the extra foot traffic has been a boost for local marinas, tackle shops, and restaurants. The season is a reminder of how much of the local economy leans on the health of the county's near-shore waters. With the season still going, local business owners are hoping the momentum holds. Read More -->

Women United Awards Nine Scholarships to Citrus County Students

Nine young women from Citrus County are getting a boost toward their futures, courtesy of Women United. The organization awarded nine scholarships this year, aimed at helping local students continue their education without as heavy a financial burden. Women United has built a track record of investing directly in the next generation of local women through initiatives like this one. The scholarships are part of the group's broader push to support young people across the community. Read More -->

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SATURDAY FARM SWAP
Saturday | August 15, 2026 | 7 AM – 2:00 PM
Howard's Flea Market
6373 S. Suncoast Blvd, Homosassa, FL 34446
🐐🌾 Howard’s Flea Market Farm Swap 🐓🐷🥚 Calling all farmers, homesteaders, backyard chicken lovers, gardeners, and animal enthusiasts! Join us EVERY Saturday from 6:30 AM – 3:00 PM at Howard’s Fl…
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Citrus County Gator Club's Annual Kick Off Party
Saturday | August 15, 2026 | 5 PM – 9:00 PM
Chet Cole Life Enrichment Center
5495 W. Safari Lane, Lecanto, FL 34461
Join us for our Annual Citrus County Gator Club Kick Off Party!!! We will have food, drinks, raffles, a guest speaker and fun! Tickets are only $25! Show us your Gator Colors!! We will have our boozy…
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Prime Rib Dinner
Saturday | August 15, 2026 | 4 PM – 9:00 PM
Grumpy Gators Bar & Grill
4828 S. Suncoast Blvd.
Our Famous Slow Roasted Prime Rib Dinner with House Salad and Baked Potato. Please call for Reservations 352-503-2064
View Event Details -->

Austin Stanley at Bree's Riverside Restaurant
Austin Stanley
Saturday | August 15, 2026 | 4 PM – 8 PM
Bree's Riverside Restaurant
29250 Lake Lindsey Rd., Nobleton, FL 34661
View Event Details -->

Echo/Sixx Band @ COPP Brewery
Echo/Sixx Band
Saturday | August 15, 2026 | 7 PM – 10 PM
Copp Brewery & Winery
7855 W Gulf To Lake Hwy, Crystal River, FL 34429
Dancing in the beer garden is on the menu
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The Vintage Band at Bree's Riverside Restaurant
The Vintage Band
Sunday | August 16, 2026 | 3 PM – 7 PM
Bree's Riverside Restaurant
29250 Lake Lindsey Rd., Nobleton, FL 34661
View Event Details -->

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