While Florida conjures up images of pristine beaches and white sugar sand for people around the world, our freshwater springs are aquamarine jewels enjoyed by locals and tourists in the know.
Springs tourism generates over $90 million dollars annually in the Santa Fe region alone. Some of Florida’s iconic wildlife, like the manatee, rely on Florida’s springs as warm water refuges. And many Floridians’ drinking water comes from the aquifer, the same water source for springs and connected rivers.
With over 1,000 new Floridians every day, it’s imperative to spread the word about the importance of Florida’s over 700 natural freshwater springs. Thanks to a $12,000 grant from our Foundation, the Alachua County Environment Protection Department developed a series of videos aimed at educating the public on how they can protect spring water and habitat for people and wildlife alike:
If you are interested in supporting work like this to protect Florida’s springs, purchase a Protect Florida Springs license plate.