Civic Duty and Springs Protection

A small group of private citizens gave their all last month for Rainbow Springs. Faced with a state-sanctioned plan to add additional harm to this beloved but impaired natural resource, five individuals penned their names to a legal petition challenging the state’s policy. They are the few and the brave who fought for the many. Following a week when America celebrates patriots who sacrificed their lives to fight tyranny, we all should thank the Rainbow Five for…

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Springs Outing Recap: Saving Wakulla Springs Overland Tour with Jim Stevenson

Just over one month ago, the Florida Springs Institute teamed up with Palmetto Expeditions to host a special tour of the Wakulla Springs basin with FSI Board Member and former Florida State Parks Chief Biologist, Jim Stevenson. In the environmental community Jim is affectionately known as the grandfather of springs protection due to his leadership as Chairman of the Florida Springs Task Force and his advocacy efforts with local groups such as the Wakulla Springs Alliance and…

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The past and future glory of Silver Springs

Last weekend’s Florida Springsfest was a reminder of the former glory of Silver Springs. With an outpouring of public enthusiasm, Marion County’s most unique natural feature may once again be elevated to its rightful importance. An estimated 7,000 visitors traveled to Silver Springs for the 17th Annual Florida Springsfest. Hosted by the nonprofit Marion County Springs Festival, with the help of dozens of park staff and volunteers, this year’s Springsfest was a celebration of the past and…

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Analyzing Nitrates in North Florida’s Drinking Water

Groundwater in the Floridan Aquifer is the source for more than 1,000 springs in North and Central Florida. It also provides water for over 90 percent of the people who live there. Even though this water lies hundreds of feet below the ground, it is not entirely protected from sources of pollution at the surface. Nitrate-nitrogen is one pollutant that has contaminated much of the water in the Floridan Aquifer. Nitrates are nutrients necessary for plant growth;…

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Into the Springs Music Festival Preview

It's hard to believe that Into the Springs is just one month away! We have been working hard behind the scenes to create a fun weekend of entertainment, education, recreation and community. While we are still working out some of the details, we are excited to share what we do have finalized, starting with our music schedule. We are excited to welcome back Noah MacGinnis, Mourning Glories, Cliff Dorsey, and Locochino; as well as welcome Whitey Markle…

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