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The People’s Plan

FSI is currently restudying Silver Springs System. In light of the changes we are seeing, we are re-publishing the following op-ed written by Dr. Knight, originally printed in the Gainesville Sun in August 2015. Staff at the Florida Springs Institute (FSI) have been active in the scientific study of Silver Springs since the 1970s. FSI’s efforts, as well as research conducted by the State of Florida have demonstrated severe biological impairments at Silver Springs as a result of reduced…

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North Florida, South Florida vie to be most-polluted region

By Dr. Robert Knight. Published in the Florida Specifier April/May 2023. Given the Environmental disaster that has continued to engulf the estuaries and beaches on both sides of the state, South Florida's guacamole-filled coastal waters are receiving the state and national press they deserve. But thanks to on-going releases of nutrient-laden water from sugar plantations, ranches, and other intensive agricultural operations; toxic floating algae, starving manatees, and rafts of dead fish continue to slime the once-blue waters,…

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Re-evaluation of Minimum Flows and Levels for the Santa Fe and Ichetucknee

It is not in the public’s best interest to dry up or pollute any of Florida’s artesian springs.  Healthy springs support a vast and abundant assemblage of charismatic and endangered wildlife, nourish our many rivers and lakes during droughts, and are the sought-after playground for tens of millions of visitors each year. Springs are essential for our local ecology and economy. Governmental agencies responsible for protecting Florida’s environmental prosperity would be reckless and irresponsible to allow priceless…

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“Out of the Mist: A Silver River Story” movie screening

Join us for a private screening of  "Out of the Mist: A Silver River Story", by Emmy Award winning National Geographic filmmaker Mark Emery. This fantastic documentary will be shown at the historic Priest Theater in High Springs, located next to the Florida Springs Institute office. Naturalist and Ocala resident Mark Emery captures the heart of Silver Springs in this film, with incredible close-ups of wildlife and unforgettable interviews with four longtime glass bottom boat captains. You…

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Below the Surface Fundraiser for Kings of the Springs

The Florida Springs Institute will be tabling at this fundraiser for Kings of the Springs. KOTS is a local nonprofit that "exists to inspire people to enjoy nature, to educate the public about environmental issues, and to get hands-on when protecting the environment." Raffle will start around 5:30!

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