Protect Florida Springs
Process & Pricing
The cost of your new license plates is a new plate fee of $72.40, which includes your annual registration fee ($25.00 of this fee will go directly to the Foundation). You do not need to be a resident of Indian River County to submit your order.
order form
BENEFITS
Funded
$1,901,479 in conservation efforts.
Aided
over 100 springs in the sunshine state.
Generates
one of the largest sources of funding for springs protection in the state.
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Remember when you wore your heart not only on your sleeve, but on your rear bumper? And trunk? And rear window? Those days may be over, but...
Your car can still help save the planet.
Just purchase one of the Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida’s conservation license plates or at your local tax collector’s office. For every plate sold, $25 is donated for conservation.
Each of our plates has a slightly different focus. Choose the one that best meets your passions. It’s not a small thing – we receive more than $1 million each year from these donations, funds that we and our partners use to conserve Florida black bears, wading birds, and many other species. We also use these monies to protect and manage new wildlife lands and waters and provide kids with formative outdoor experiences.
So, the next time you renew or order a plate at your local tax collector’s office, make it one of ours — even if you no longer drive a Beetle.
OVERVIEW
The non-profit Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida, Inc. is dedicated to the conservation, management, and sustainable enjoyment of Florida’s outstanding lands, waters, and wildlife. Since 1994, the Foundation has raised and given away more than $71 million for conservation and outdoor recreation and education programs for adults, children, and families.
FOCUS OF GRANTS
The Foundation is seeking freshwater springs-focused projects in two areas; several needs within each area are noted.
- Research projects that lead to a better understanding of Florida’s springs and how to restore and maintain their long-term ecological health, including the development of effective strategies for addressing one or more principal threats facing Florida’s springs. Preference is given to research and adaptive management projects with the potential to benefit multiple springs. (Examples: projects that identify the sources of stress for a particular spring; an innovative method of reducing nutrient pollution or controlling invasive species in one or more springs; research to ensure the continued survival of imperiled or declining spring species.)
Current priorities:
- Development of local and regional watershed maps for springs to foster better land-use planning and guide springs and aquifer-related environmental policy.
- Development and testing of strategies to improve the water quality of springs, with an emphasis on reducing nutrient loads in springs.
- Funding for communities and organizations working to preserve or restore springs.
- Restoration projects that benefit key species (e.g., eelgrass restoration to improve habitat for manatees and other springs species) and/or contribute to our understanding of springs ecosystems and their conservation.
- Community education and other outreach activities that foster adoption of best practices in the restoration, management, and conservation of freshwater springs or alter public attitudes and practices detrimental to spring conservation. Examples: community education projects that encourage landowners to reduce non-point nutrient flow into springs via vegetative buffers, improved septic systems or sewage treatment, fostering and organizing community or interest-group (e.g., divers) springs clean ups, bank stabilization, exotic species removal, and similar on-the-ground stewardship work.
Current priorities:
- Quantification of the long-term economic benefits of springs preservation and restoration; e. g., nature tourism, ecosystem services (health of aquifer/clean drinking water, water for wildlife, and agriculture, etc.).
- Proposals that address the disconnect between an individual’s actions and the large-scale impacts on springs and the aquifer (for example, that dumping chemicals on the ground can show up in surrounding waters within weeks with little filtration and consequent impacts on human and wildlife health).
- Creation of a best-practices manual of restoration and conservation strategies that have worked well at one or more springs.
- Effective strategies based on current understanding of social behavior to change behaviors by Florida residents and tourists that degrade Florida’s springs.
The potential conservation impact of each proposal and its possible applicability to multiple springs will have strong bearing on the possibility of being funded. Questions to be answered in the springs grant application include:
- Does the project have broad applicability? Could agencies and other communities take the results and apply them elsewhere?
- Does the project have the potential to change minds and behaviors?
- Are the anticipated results measurable or quantifiable? What is the grantee’s plan for publicizing the findings and having them influence work elsewhere?
- Does the project or its anticipated results have the potential to attract new funding, partners, or on-the-ground conservation agreements?
ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS AND PROJECTS
Eligible applicants include federal, state, or local government agencies; public and private colleges and universities; and 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations, including all-volunteer organizations (e.g., “Friends of…” groups). The Foundation may also, at its sole discretion, consider proposals that benefit the public from private, for-profit organizations.
HISTORY
The Florida Legislature established the Protect Florida Springs specialty license plate in 2007 to fund competitive grants for community-based springs research and conservation not currently available for state funding, as well as funding of community outreach programs aimed at implementing such research findings. The competitive grants are administered and approved by the board of directors of the Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida, with input from a Springs Advisory Committee made up of springs experts and community members. A list of past grants can be found below for guidance.
GRANT SIZE
Grant requests up to $30,000 will be considered. The applicant’s ability to procure matching funds from other sources may have bearing on the possibility of being funded but is not a prerequisite. Multi-year projects will be considered, but funding is generally awarded for 12-month intervals. The next Request for Proposals is March 2025.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Contact the Foundation’s Grant Programs Administrator via email.
PAST GRANTS
Enhance and Monitor Habitat Restoration Efforts in Silver Glen Springs to Increase Foraging Resources ($22,440)
The Lake George area and surrounding springs lost much of their submerged aquatic vegetation after the 2017 hurricane season. In 2021, CMARI started reestablishing vegetation near Silver Glen Springs by planting eelgrass over 0.33 acres and monitoring its growth and health thanks to this grant.
Springs Celebration and Longleaf Pine Restoration Project ($5,000)
Poe Springs continued its longleaf pine ecosystem restoration with additional plantings and community engagement, including a springs celebration event with educational activities.
Lower Santa Fe River Basin Groundwater Nitrate Assessment ($8,140)
The Santa Fe River basin suffers from high nitrogen levels. Grantees monitored wells to analyze groundwater trends, sampling around 80 wells for nutrients during dry and wet seasons. Results were shared with residents at public forums.
Ecological Model for Effective Restoration of Submerged Aquatic Vegetation: A Mesocosm-Based Approach ($12,100)
This project developed a model for submerged aquatic vegetation growth in springs. It used experiments to study how light and redox conditions affect the growth of Sagittaria kurziana. The results, combined with previous studies, formed a growth model to help managers evaluate restoration efforts, aiming to improve spring management and biodiversity conservation.
Lower Santa Fe River Springs Herbicide and Pesticide Study ($20,000)
The grantee sampled springs in the Santa Fe River for herbicides, targeting two Outstanding Florida Springs and other locations. Bi-weekly sampling during wet and summer seasons aimed to understand herbicide impact on spring flows and inform better management practices.
Filling the Data Gaps: Purchasing New SpringsWatch Equipment ($6,120)
The Florida Springs Institute’s SpringsWatch program used over 120 volunteer scientists to monitor water quality at 11 springs systems. Funds were used to purchase new water quality meters and an underwater camera for better data collection and documentation.
Acquisition of Spectrofluorometer to Support Florida Springs Dye Tracing and Other Research ($25,009)
A Shimadzu RF-6000 fluorescence spectrofluorometer was acquired to enhance research capabilities in water resource management. It also improved the chances of securing funding for future dye traces in collaboration with water management and geological survey organizations.
2024 Florida Springs Summit ($10,000)
The Florida Springs Council hosted the fourth “Florida Springs Summit” in spring 2024, bringing together leaders and the public to discuss springs-related issues, raise awareness, and enhance the capacity to protect springs through education and networking.
Is Your Water Well? Private well test awareness and nitrate monitoring in the Springs Heartland ($23,716)
Elevated nitrate levels in springs pose health risks. This project provided free nitrate well tests and educated rural residents about water safety and testing resources to ensure safer drinking water.
Evaluation of bull shark movement and habitat use in Crystal River/Kings Bay ($10,000)
Bull sharks, important to Florida’s ecosystem, used Kings Bay as a nursery. The project used acoustic monitoring to confirm this and assessed the springs’ potential as thermal refuges for these sharks.
Monitoring Manatee Use and Developing a Manatee Observer Program in Salt and Silver Glen Springs ($19,927)
The Ocala Manatee Observer Program by the grantee addressed increased manatee and recreational activity at Salt and Silver Glen Springs. Volunteers educated visitors on responsible recreation practices and documented manatee behavior and habitat use.
Is Your Water Well? Private Well Test Awareness and Nitrate Monitoring in the Suwannee Valley ($20,000)
The Florida Springs Institute addressed rising nitrate levels in the Floridan Aquifer by distributing free nitrate well tests, conducting routine sampling, and educating private well owners about water testing and nitrate risks. An interactive GIS map was created for public access to water quality information.
Swaying New Home Buyers Mindsets Towards Sustainable Landscapes ($11,000)
The Sustainable Floridian’s Program, a collaboration between The Nature Conservancy and UF, promoted sustainable practices in new master-planned communities, focusing on water conservation and quality. A “Guide and Best Practices Manual to Sustainable Landscapes” was developed to educate homebuyers.
“Freedom Lawns” Social Marketing Behavior Change Campaign ($15,000)
The grantee promoted multi-species lawns and landscapes as alternatives to manicured urban lawns. The project involved designing a campaign to educate the public through social and print media and engaging local partners to reach a broader audience.
Altering Public Attitudes and Practices that Harm Florida Springs ($8,400)
The project used social media and digital content to influence behaviors related to lawn fertilization, irrigation, and bottled water use. The campaign aimed to reduce fertilizer use, water consumption, and plastic litter in springs.
Springs Project Funding Analysis ($4,000)
The Florida Springs Council evaluated the cost-effectiveness of springs projects funded by the Land Acquisition Trust Fund since 2016. They analyzed data and presented findings to policymakers and the public to recommend more efficient use of LATF funds.
Connecting Florida’s Sportsmen and Women with a Healthy Springs Ecosystem ($5,000)
Florida Springsheds Cleanups ($13,400)
The grantee focused on cleaning up high-priority debris in Outstanding Florida Springs and springsheds. Volunteers collected data to develop debris prevention strategies and tailored outreach programs, ultimately producing a comprehensive report.
Ecological Health Assessment of the Silver Springs System ($31,000)
The Florida Springs Institute assessed the ecological health of the Silver Springs System, one of Florida’s largest spring systems impaired by high nitrate nitrogen levels. The project involved water quality monitoring, vegetation surveys, and wildlife studies to provide insights for protection efforts.
SpringsWatch Training Workshop ($15,121)
The SpringsWatch program by the Florida Springs Institute grew to involve over 120 citizen scientists. A training event was held to enhance data collection and public outreach, including interactive sessions and educational videos on water quality and wildlife surveys.
Fertilizer and Aquifer Actions Behavior Change Campaign ($20,000)
This grant promoted protective behaviors for springs conservation encouraged individuals to reduce fertilizer and water usage, particularly in front yards for HOA residents. The campaign focused on limiting shower time and turning off sprinklers to protect springs.
Educating the Public About Conservation and a Major Restoration of the Blue Spring State Park Headspring and Run ($5,500)
The Friends of Blue Spring State Park used funding to create signs and park maps to educate visitors about an erosion project. The signs emphasized the importance of preventing further damage to the park and complemented other initiatives like the manatee rescue ramp.
Evaluating and Analyzing Microplastics in Florida Springs ($35,000)
A project assessed microplastic contamination in central Florida springs and developed cost-effective membranes for solid collection and analysis. While no microplastics were found, heavy metals and fluoride raised concerns about water quality. The study advised against drinking spring water.
Evaluation of Common Snook Movement Patterns Associated with Thermal Refugia in Crystal River ($34,099)
This grant tracked common snook in Crystal River/Kings Bay using acoustic telemetry. The data showed their reliance on the river as a warm water refuge in winter, providing insights for future management plans.
Determining Changes in Utilization of Ocklawaha River System by Manatees in Response to Environmental Declination in Other Manatee Use Areas ($23,439)
CMARI studied manatee use in the Ocklawaha and adjacent systems with GPS tracking and citizen reports. The program expanded regional education efforts and identified 69 individual manatees, contributing valuable data for manatee management.
Florida Springs Field School 2022 ($14,000)
The Springs Field School by the Howard T. Odum Florida Springs Institute offered a comprehensive education on Florida’s springs, combining lectures and hands-on fieldwork to enhance public understanding and encourage conservation efforts.
Monitoring Manatee and Recreational Use of the Silver River ($16,388)
CMARI conducted a five-year study on manatee presence in the Silver River, finding it a critical winter habitat. Despite recreational activity posing a risk, educational outreach minimized disturbances and promoted spring protection awareness.
Kings Bay SPRINGSWATCH ($10,200)
The Florida Springs Institute launched the Kings Bay SPRINGWATCH citizen science group to monitor water quality and ecological health. Volunteers conducted monthly monitoring, resulting in a dedicated webpage and data dashboard to support ongoing conservation.
Ecological Health and Recreation Assessment of the Rainbow Springs System ($40,000)
The Howard T. Odum Florida Springs Institute assessed the ecological health of Rainbow Springs and River, which faced challenges like flow reductions and invasive hydrilla. The study provided a snapshot of current conditions to guide future restoration efforts.
Florida Springs Friendly Yards ($7,000)
The Florida Springs Institute’s Springs Friendly Yards program encouraged people to avoid groundwater withdrawal and fertilizers, and to landscape with native species, promoting personal contributions to springs conservation.
Springs Protection and Manatee-Monitoring through Citizen Science and Educational Outreach in the Springs Heartland ($8,300)
This grant promoted responsible recreation in springs and collected manatee data through the “Feet Up and Float” campaign and the “Florida Springs Heartland Sighting Network.” Educational materials were distributed, and volunteers monitored manatee presence, resulting in 148 reported sightings.
Simple Things for Our Springs Phase III ($20,794)
The Alachua Conservation Trust bridged knowledge gaps regarding springs conservation and land conservation. Outreach events, educational videos, and surveys deepened community relationships and empowered landowners to engage in conservation efforts.
Identifying sources of changing water chemistry in the Upper Floridan Aquifer ($22,143)
Significant water quality changes weere observed in the Suwannee River Basin springs. Preliminary findings suggested agricultural practices as a likely cause, emphasizing the need to mitigate fertilizer applications. Ongoing research aims to improve water resource management.
Santa Fe Springshed Troglobitic Surveys ($14,000)
This grant surveyed twelve groundwater sites in Alachua County for cave-dwelling species like crawfish and amphipods. The findings provided valuable data for future conservation efforts, expanding the known range of certain endemic species.
All Accessible Glass Bottom Boat for Silver Springs State Park ($20,000)
With this grant, an all-accessible glass bottom tour boat at Silver Springs was created to provide everyone, including people with disabilities, the opportunity to appreciate and protect the springs. Positive feedback highlighted the meaningful impact and inspiration the boat provided.
Simple Things For Our Springs Phase II ($10,000)
The 2021 Simple Things for Our Springs project by Alachua County Trust enhanced capacity for springs conservation, resulting in the permanent protection of nearly 3,700 acres vital to Florida springs. Increased staff capacity enabled targeted outreach for conservation efforts.
Springs Protection Behavior Change Videos ($12,000)
Alachua County created five short videos focused on springs protection, accessible on the county website, YouTube, and social media. These educational tools will be integrated into ongoing initiatives and shared with stakeholders.
Ecological Health Assessment at Seven Outstanding Florida Springs on the Suwannee River ($40,000)
The Florida Springs Institute studied the health of four outstanding Florida springs feeding the Suwannee River. The analysis revealed severe impairments, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive intervention to restore these critical springs.
W. Panhandle SPRINGSWATCH TAG Grant Propoal FSI_2021_22 ($10,200)
This grant established a SpringsWatch program for volunteer monitoring of the Ponce de Leon Springs system’s ecology. Objectives included creating an annual report, volunteer involvement, and data visualization through an online dashboard.
Creating a Better Santa Fe BMAP ($4,940)
The Florida Springs Council developed and shared a “Better BMAP” for the Santa Fe and Ichetucknee Rivers’ springs, addressing deficiencies in the initial Basin Management Action Plan and providing solutions to improve water quality.
The Story of Florida Water: A permanent exhibition at the state's natural history museum ($20,000)
The Florida Museum of Natural History launched “The Story of Florida Water,” a transformative exhibition covering Florida’s vital water narrative, with a special emphasis on springs. The exhibition aims to empower visitors to become responsible stewards of the state’s water resources.
Interactive Florida Springs Atlas Tag Grant Proposal FSI_2021_22 ($10,000)
The Florida Springs Institute developed an Interactive Florida Springs Atlas, highlighting the 30 Outstanding Florida Springs designated by the Florida Legislature in 2016. The online atlas provides immersive content, allowing exploration and understanding of these exceptional springs.
Healthy Underwater Forest signage at Ruth B. Kirby Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park ($3,500)
This grant educated visitors at Ruth B. Kirby Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park about submerged aquatic vegetation and responsible recreation. It resulted in the installation of educational signs and vegetation data collection.
Florida Springs Summit 2021 ($9,000)
The Florida Springs Council organized a three-day Springs Summit in Crystal River, attracting over 375 participants from diverse backgrounds. The event featured prominent voices in springs law, policy, science, and activism, enhancing understanding and connections within the springs community.
Jackson Blue Springswatch Tag Grant Proposal FSI_2021_22 ($10,200)
The Jackson Blue Springs SpringsWatch project initiated a volunteer monitoring program for the ecology of Jackson Blue Springs. Objectives included creating an annual report and an online dashboard for data visualization.
Santa Fe River Springs Submerged Aquatic Vegetation (SAV) Project ($14,000)
Surveys in 2018 and 2019 documented the impact of flooding and tannic river water on submerged aquatic vegetation in the Lower Santa Fe River. The resurgence of SAV in 2021 indicated potential recovery, highlighting the need for ongoing surveys to understand extreme weather impacts.
Year II: Evaluation of Thermal Refuge Habitat for Fish in Springs of the Lower Suwannee River ($35,880)
This grant established a telemetry network in the Lower Suwannee River region to track Snook habitat use. The goal was to inform hydrological management considering species like Snook to establish minimum flows and levels in areas with temperature fluctuations.
Determining Habitat Preference, Seasonal Use Trends and the Resighting Frequency of Manatees in the Silver River ($16,351)
CMARI collected manatee data in the Silver River to understand their habitat use. Surveys revealed the river as a vital winter habitat for manatees, despite disturbances from recreational activities. Educational efforts aimed to minimize these disturbances.
Assessing Manatee Use of Regional Springs and Habitat Selection Utilizing GPS Telemetry in the Ocklawaha River System ($23,619)
CMARI researched manatee use in the Ocklawaha and adjacent systems, using GPS tracking and citizen reports. The program expanded regional education efforts and identified 161 manatees since data collection began in 2016.
Simple Things for Our Springs ($22,000)
The Simple Things for Our Springs project increased public awareness about protecting private land through conservation easements. Diverse content like maps, brochures, and films simplified conservation easements and built support for springs protection efforts.
Nitrate Concentrations in Groundwater of the Santa Fe River Basin and Outreach ($9,400)
The Santa Fe River, an Outstanding Florida Water, was evaluated for groundwater quality, particularly nitrate concentrations. Comparing data to previous results
FloridaÂ’s Magic Waters ($40,000)
This grant grant facilitated the creation of a comprehensive springs documentary package comprising a feature-length documentary film, a short 360 video documentary, and a media outreach campaign.
Determining Annual Use Trends, Return Rates, and Habitat Preferences of Manatees in the Silver River ($17,098)
CMARI conducted manatee monitoring in the Silver River, finding it vital for manatees in winter. Over three winters, 62 manatees were identified. Educational outreach minimized recreational disturbances.
Irrigation-free residential landscapes in FloridaÂ’s springs region: Making the Case ($49,900)
A study on sprinkler-free landscapes in Florida showed 49% to 61% less water use, unaffected property values, lower construction costs, and higher satisfaction. The study promotes sustainable landscaping.
Herbivory and Recreational Exclusion Device Study ($8,400)
This grant evaluated herbivory and stress on Sagittaria kurziana in the Lower Santa Fe River. Full enclosures improved vegetation establishment, especially with high dissolved oxygen levels and shorter floods.
Aquifer Awareness Education Campaign ($10,000)
A campaign to link daily water use with springs impact reached 1.5 million people. Social media, print media, and ads increased public understanding, with 54% correctly identifying their water source.
Modeling Nutrient Transport in Karst Aquifer for Florida Springs Water Quality Management ($59,441)
An integrated model for Volusia Blue Spring tracked pollutants, highlighting the need for septic upgrades to control nutrient and caffeine pollution. The model aids spring protection and restoration.
Springs Field School ($10,555)
The Florida Springs Field School provided insights into springs ecosystems through a hybrid learning program, doubling student participation and promoting environmental awareness.
Florida Springs Conservation Prioritization Tool and Web Application ($29,740)
An interactive web app prioritized and reported on springs’ conditions and future risks. It aids decision-making and conservation efforts by visualizing key variables.
Blue Spring Alliance Community Plan for Springshed Resilience ($10,000)
Resources like a Homeowners Guide, Native Plant Guide, and YouTube videos educated the public on the link between springshed activities and groundwater quality
Surveying for Endemic Cave Crayfish Species at Alexander and Silver Glen Springs ($4,300)
This grant located rare crayfish in Florida Springs. While two systems yielded no findings, Alexander Springs revealed a mature male Big-cheeked Cave Crayfish, confirming its persistence.
Evaluation of Thermal Refuge Habitat for Snook in Springs of the Lower Suwannee River ($37,078)
This grant used acoustic telemetry to show that lower Suwannee River springs are vital thermal refuges for snook in winter. This is the first study to quantify such habitat importance.
Sediment history of Florida springs: determining baseline spring state and subsequent human impacts ($17,667)
Research on Florida springs revealed shifts from plant to algal dominance, affecting biodiversity. Sediment cores showed unique characteristics, guiding management strategies against algal increase.
Monitoring the Silver River for Manatees While Increasing Public Awareness on Best Practices for Viewing ($15,952)
The Clearwater Marine Aquarium assessed manatee use in the Silver River, showing its sustainability as a habitat. Surveys and educational initiatives minimized human impact on manatees.
Movement Patterns of the Florida Peninsula Cooter and the Florida Red-Bellied Turtle in Wekiwa Springs ($9,052)
48 Florida Red-belly and Peninsula Cooters were tracked with radio transmitters over 48 river km, revealing movement data and home ranges for conservation efforts.
Assessing temporal and spatial trends in fish assemblages within spring runs of the St. Johns River Basin ($42,500)
FWC established electrofishing protocols and gathered fish population data in eight spring runs, identifying effective sampling strategies and habitat preferences.
Wakulla SPRINGSWATCH ($10,695)
A SPRINGSWATCH program for Wakulla System monitored ecology and provided an annual report, including a data visualization dashboard.
Wekiva River SPRINGSWATCH ($10,695)
A SPRINGSWATCH program for Wekiva River System monitored ecology, creating an annual report and a data visualization dashboard.
Investigating Drivers of Winter Shifts in Fish Abundance in the Homosassa River System ($75,000)
Research on spring-fed rivers, like Homosassa River, showed increased marine fish presence during cold periods, highlighting the river as a warm water refuge.
Poe Springs Aquatic Habitat Enhancement & Outreach ($12,500)
This grant at Poe Springs County Park enhanced aquatic vegetation and stream banks through native plantings, addressing nuisance algae dominance.
Do the sediments of St. Johns River springs contain higher organic content than springs on other river systems? ($18,377)
This grant on nuisance algae in Florida’s springs focused on muck accumulation and sediment records, providing insights into long-term environmental changes.
Santa Fe River Springs Submerged Aquatic Vegetation (SAV) Project ($12,000)
This grant assessed the state of submerged aquatic vegetation in Santa Fe River springs, comparing current findings to 2017 baseline data.
Florida Springs Conservation Plan and Executive Summary ($16,500)
FSI’s Florida Springs Conservation Plan reviewed extensive data and provided a report card for 35 springs, informing officials and stakeholders about their condition.
Monitoring the Silver River and Characterizing Springs in the Upper Ocklawaha River for Manatee Utilization ($15,015)
The project gathered environmental data in Ocklawaha River spring systems to assess manatee winter habitats, informing habitat restoration and management.
Hornsby Springs Dissolved Oxygen and Faunal Study ($14,000)
ACEPD’s study of Hornsby Spring monitored dissolved oxygen, sediment composition, and conducted biological surveys to support habitat restoration efforts.
Why is flow in Silver Springs declining? ($49,369)
This grant at Silver Springs identified causes of spring flow declines by testing hypotheses, informing future restoration and management strategies.
Lower Santa Fe River SPRINGSWATCH ($10,000)
A SPRINGSWATCH program for Lower Santa Fe River produced an annual report and a public-access data visualization dashboard.
Weeki Wachee SPRINGSWATCH ($10,000)
A SPRINGSWATCH program for Weeki Wachee Springs System produced an annual report and developed a data visualization dashboard for ecological trends.
Wakulla Spring Dark Waters: Pinpointing Sources ($33,912)
The project investigated causes of “green dark water” events at Wakulla Spring, linking them to tannins and discharge patterns, and suggested mindful lawn practices to reduce algae.
Protect Weeki Wachee Spring / Lyngbya Removal ($40,000)
The “Protect Weeki Wachee Spring / Lyngbya Removal” project used a diver-assisted suction harvester to efficiently remove Lyngbya algae, improving spring health.
Inspiring Behavior Change through Experiencing the Santa Fe River and Springs ($5,700)
Guided paddling trips on the Santa Fe River educated various groups on springs protection, water use, and conservation concerns.
Fish Identification Guide for Florida Springs ($7,500)
A fish identification guide with online videos and a waterproof field guide was developed to educate the public about Florida’s Springs’ fish species.
Florida Springs Restoration Summit ($12,000)
A multi-day conference on spring restoration brought together various stakeholders to collaborate on preserving springs and the aquifer.
Santa Fe River and Springs Signage Project ($11,230)
Interpretive signs and water conservation education materials were installed at selected sites to remind visitors of actions to protect springs.
Out of sight but not out of mind: Developing a septic systems education toolbox for homeowners in Florida’s springsheds ($28,509)
This grant raised awareness about septic systems and water quality through workshops, videos, factsheets, and training, reaching 250 citizens across four counties.
Blue Water Audit Interactive Website ($15,000)
The Blue Water Audit assessed nitrogen loading and groundwater withdrawals, presenting results via an interactive website with educational resources and tools.
Rainbow Springs SPRINGSWATCH ($10,215)
A citizen monitoring program at Rainbow Springs tracked nitrate nitrogen and flow rates, engaging volunteers in data collection and analysis.
Volusia Blue Spring Restoration Action Plan and Executive Summary ($16,500)
A Restoration Action Plan and Executive Summary for Volusia Blue Spring were developed to inform the public and officials about restoration challenges.
Wakulla Springs Water Quality Restoration ($15,000)
FSU researchers studied the transformation of Wakulla Springs due to groundwater extraction and rising sea levels, highlighting environmental challenges.
Hernando County Fertilizer Ordinance Survey and Results Outreach ($14,511)
51,378 postcards were mailed, resulting in 439 survey responses to gather public opinions and attitudes.
Springs Protection Outreach Campaign ($9,000)
This grant supported education initiatives encouraging homeowners to adopt practices protecting springs, using TV commercials and Facebook marketing.commercials and Facebook marketing to engage the target audiences.
Characterizing and Monitoring Environmental Parameters as Springs in the Lower Oklawaha River ($20,000)
Data collection in Ocklawaha River spring systems assessed manatee suitability and potential impacts if the Rodman Dam were removed.
The Water Festival: Celebrating Water Through Art ($17,000)
The Water Festival in Volusia County increased support for spring conservation, growing its mailing list by 50% and attracting over 50 new vendors.
Wakulla Spring Dark Waters: Causes and Sources Phase II ($32,900)
The second phase of the dark water study at Wakulla Spring investigated sources of chlorophyll from algae contributing to green tint.
Following the Water to Wakulla Spring Video ($6,900)
The video “Following the Water to Wakulla Spring” educated the public on water pollution vulnerability and protection strategies, reaching over 1500 views on its first day.
Lake and Sinkhole Seepage Nitrogen Loading to Wakulla Springs ($4,500)
A study on total nitrogen loadings to Wakulla Springs recommended prioritizing urban stormwater remediation for large urban lakes to restore water quality.
Monitoring Environmental Parameters and Use by a Keystone Species in Central Florida’s Salt and Silver Glen Springs ($12,924)
A five-year study at Silver Glen and Salt Springs established baseline environmental data and vegetation abundance to inform future management decisions.
Ichetucknee Springs Baseline Assessment - A Citizen-Science Project ($15,000)
A community-based approach provided scientific data for establishing a springs baseline for the Ichetucknee Spring run ecosystem.
Wakulla Spring Dark Water: Causes and Sources ($6,200)
This grant by the Wakulla Springs Alliance aimed to identify causes of prolonged “dark water” conditions impacting the spring ecosystem.
Agriculture and Springs Protection High School Curriculum, Field Trip, and Educator Short Course. ($5,000)
Presentations and field trips educated high school students on springs protection, water conservation, and agricultural best practices.
Wekiwa Springs and River Restoration Plan ($16,000)
A Restoration Action Plan and report for Wekiwa Springs and River were developed to inform officials and stakeholders about complex issues.
Rainbow Springs Baseline Assessment - A Citizen-Science Project ($15,000)
A community-based approach provided scientific data for establishing a springs baseline for the Rainbow Spring run ecosystem.
Wakulla Spring Baseline Assessment - A Citizen-Science Project ($15,000)
A community-based approach provided scientific data for establishing a springs baseline for the Wakulla Spring run ecosystem.
Trophic Dynamics in Blue Spring, Volusia County, Florida ($4,290)
The project investigated nutrient sources in Volusia Blue Spring’s food web, focusing on seasonal variations and the role of invasive catfish.
Blue Spring Adventurers Program ($10,000)
The Blue Spring Adventurers Program facilitated educational field trips for students, promoting stewardship and knowledge sharing about the spring ecosystem.
Monitoring Re-colonization at Ulele Spring Post-Restoration ($13,528)
A two-year study at Ulele Spring assessed the impact of restoration on species diversity, vegetation growth, and recreational boating activity.
Septic to Sewer Conversion Study ($45,000)
A feasibility study for converting septic tanks to central sewer in Spring Hill aimed to develop a GIS layer and prioritize areas for conversion projects.
