About Us

ABOUT HOWARD T. ODUM FLORIDA SPRINGS INSTITUTE

WORKING TO PROTECT SPRINGS THROUGH SOUND SCIENCE AND EDUCATION

The Howard T. Odum Florida Springs Institute is a science and education based 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Our goal is to document Florida’s springs and educate the public about the threats that face them in order to ensure future generations can enjoy them as we have.

MISSION

The mission of the Florida Springs Institute is to provide a focal point for improving the understanding of springs ecology and to foster the development of science-based education and management actions needed to restore and protect springs throughout Florida.

SPRINGS RESEARCH

Since 2010, the Florida Springs Institute has been establishing a quantitative springs baseline by monitoring and reporting water quality and quantity, conducting springs ecological studies, and documenting the overall health of Florida’s spring ecosystems. We utilize all available scientifically defensible springs data to develop holistic springs restoration action plans. We share our recommendations and collaborate with individuals, businesses, and government agencies to better protect Florida springs so that future generations can enjoy them as we have.

OUTREACH & EDUCATION

Since our inception in 2010, the Howard T. Odum Florida Springs Institute has been dedicated to educating the public about Florida springs through our many programs, learning tools, and events. In 2013 the Florida Spring Institute incorporated as a 501(c)(3) private non-profit. One of our biggest assets is our North Florida Springs Environmental Center (NFSEC), which was created to showcase the fascinating aspects of Florida spring ecosystems and to help answer your springs questions. We are currently working on opening a state-wide springs education center in Silver Springs State Park. Want to schedule a tour, presentation, or event for your group or class? Click Here!

OUR IMPACT

8 YEARS MONITORING

10 WATER QUALITY PARAMETERS COLLECTED

235 SpringsWatch SAMPLING TRIPS

> 16,000

VOLUNTEER HOURS

Developing a quantitative and scientifically defensible baseline of ecological data that documents their existing environmental conditions and trends over time.
Disseminating current best available knowledge and information about Florida's springs to the public and their leaders.
Developing and promoting management actions needed to reverse adverse changes occurring in many springs in the state.
Promoting a strong economy throughout the springs heartland of north and central Florida that is compatible with healthy springs.
Supporting wise land use practices to reduce pollution affecting springs and to maintain historic spring flows that promote healthy spring ecosystems.
Increasing the public's awareness of the threats to springs and the need to fund basic springs science commensurate with their intrinsic and economic values.