What’s going on?

Florida’s springs create warm, beautiful habitats throughout the region, year-round. These springs maintain a steady temperature of 70 to 75ºF – perfect for a winter dip or a summer cool down. Springs are more than just picturesque natural features; they offer a glimpse into Florida’s aquifer system and play a vital role in maintaining the health of the state’s waterways. 

With more first- and second-magnitude springs than any other state in the US, Florida is home to over 1,000 springs – the largest concentration of freshwater springs on Earth. Their allure draws people and wildlife from near and far, but this influx of activity has placed growing pressure on these fragile ecosystems. Human activity, pollution, and habitat destruction threaten the delicate balance of the springs, putting the species that rely on them in peril and negatively impacting the water quality that Floridians rely on. 

Why it matters.

Florida’s springs are a vital natural resource for both people and wildlife. They act as windows into the Floridan aquifer, a vast underground reservoir that supplies 90% of Florida’s drinking water. Beyond human needs, the springs maintain and support ecosystem health. The water flowing through springs travels underground, mixing with groundwater before resurfacing at springs and rivers, acting as a natural filter. This results in the crystal-clear spring waters that we are familiar with. Any contamination that seeps into the aquifer can spread through these interconnected waterways, threatening plants, animals, and the entire ecosystem. Protecting the health of these springs directly safeguards this essential water source for people and wildlife alike. 

The wildlife populations in Florida depend on springs. Take the Florida manatee, for example. Historically, manatees relied on the constant warmth of natural springs to survive the winter months. However, with the loss of spring habitats due to human development and environmental degradation, around 60% of the Florida manatee population now overwinters in artificial warm-water refuges from power plant discharge basins – a concerning shift that reflects the loss of their natural habitats. 

What you can do. 

There are several ways you can help protect Florida’s springs:  

• Recreate responsibly: Whether you’re swimming, kayaking, or boating, be mindful of your impact. Stay in your vessel when possible, tie off in shallow waters, and avoid docking on riverbanks to prevent erosion. Protect the spring beds by not trampling vegetation or kicking up silt and resist the urge to climb trees or use rope swings, as this can damage flood-controlling trees. Always disposing of litter in designated areas — single-use plastics pose major risks to wildlife, so opt for sustainable alternatives. 

• Conserve water: Reducing household water use eases pressure on the aquifer. Simple actions like fixing leaks, using water-efficient appliances, and limiting lawn irrigation can make a big difference. 

• Plant native species: Creating a Florida-friendly yard with native plants helps attract local wildlife while reducing the need for irrigation, fertilizers, and pesticides — all of which can negatively impact spring water quality. 

• Get involved: Support springs conservation efforts by joining citizen science initiatives like the Florida Springs Institute’s Springs Watch, the Florida Springs Heartland Manatee Sighting Network, or the Santa Fe River Turtle Project. Volunteering with local conservation groups is another hands-on way to make an impact. 

• Advocate and educate: Raise your voice by contacting legislators about the importance of protecting Florida’s springs. Spreading awareness among your community about the crucial role springs play in Florida’s ecosystems can inspire others to take action. 

Florida’s springs are more than just beautiful natural features – they are lifelines for both people and wildlife. Protecting them ensures the health of the aquifer, the stability of ecosystems, and the survival of species like the Florida manatee. By doing your part,  we can protect these beautiful habitats and the wildlife they sustain for generations to come. 

 

Information from Florida DEP, Florida FWC, Southwest Florida Water Management District, and National Geographic. Images from Canva.