Florida Springs
WHY THEY ARE IMPORTANT TO THE OCEAN
&
HOW TO VISIT RESPONSIBLY
Are you planning to visit Florida’s springs but want to make sure you’re doing so in the most environmentally responsible way possible?
That’s AWESOME and we’re so appreciative that you care!
Florida Springs
OVERVIEW
Florida’s springs are priceless, irreplaceable treasures. The natural springs in Florida comprise a unique ecosystem that provides a home to all types of wildlife. The warm temperatures and abundant aquatic life provide an ideal habitat for fish, turtles, manatees, and a host of other creatures. From the crystal-clear waters of Ginnie Springs to the depths of Silver Springs and Weeki Wachee, these springs offer visitors a chance to experience nature in its purest form.
According to the Florida Springs Institute, the state’s springs attract millions of visitors each year. While that’s a lot of people, there’s still plenty we can do to ensure visitors enjoy the beauty of these springs without damaging their delicate ecosystems. In this article, you’ll learn how to be an eco-friendly guest and the Dos and Don’ts of visiting Florida springs responsibly. From the scientific significance of the springs to the beauty they offer, this article will equip you with the knowledge you need to visit and respectfully appreciate the springs. You’ll also find out how YOU can take a stand for Florida’s springs and help protect these precious and fragile ecosystems that are critical to the health of the land and the ocean (even if you live far away).
What Are Florida Springs?
Florida natural springs are geological formations that occur when an underground layer of permeable rock is filled with water and pushed up to the surface due to pressure. This bubbling up often occurs at points of lower elevation where the land is permeable and can easily allow the water to flow. The springs are part of the naturally occurring aquifer system, in which underground reservoirs of water are replenished by rainwater or other surface water flowing downward.
Florida has hundreds of natural springs located throughout the state, ranging from small and shallow to large and deep. They are typically crystal clear and filled with an abundance of fish and other aquatic life. The water temperature in these springs is usually around 72 degrees Fahrenheit, making them a popular destination for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. But they most importantly serve as habitats for many native species. They are often protected by the state and are considered a vital link to Florida’s natural history.
Why Are Springs Important?
Florida's natural springs are some of the most important and unique ecosystems in the world and provide an invaluable resource to the environment. The crystal clear waters comprise a unique ecosystem of native species of plants, mammals, birds, fish, and insects. They also serve an important role in maintaining the overall health of the environment by acting as water purification systems and providing critical freshwater sources in a state surrounded by salt and brackish water.
The vast network of springs also provides both recreational and educational benefits, giving visitors a unique glimpse into the state’s natural beauty. They are an important part of Florida’s history, with many springs having been used for centuries by the native inhabitants of the land.
What Animals Live Near the Springs?
Alligators, alligators, alligators! Alligators are one of the most visible inhabitants and can be seen lurking in deeper pools or basking on banks in the sunshine. These majestic animals live in shallow, warm waters and can reach lengths from ten to fourteen feet long. Alligators play an important role in the ecology of these areas by controlling prey populations and providing shelter for a variety of other species when they dig gator holes housing amphibians, fish, and other animals. They use their powerful jaws and sharp teeth to hunt for fish, turtles, and other aquatic prey. If you’re lucky enough to spot one of these creatures in the wild, be sure to give them plenty of space.
And Manatees! Manatees are a threatened species that can be found swimming and grazing in the warmer springs in the winter. Manatees are gentle, peaceful creatures that inhabit Florida's natural springs ecosystem. They can be found in the crystal-clear waters of Blue Spring State Park, Silver Springs, and Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park. Manatees are slow-moving herbivores that feed on aquatic vegetation such as seagrasses and algae. They often get hit by boat propellers, and can't swim away from people when harassed, so it's a good idea to love them from a good distance.
Turtles are also common, with snapping turtles, softshell turtles, and Florida cooters living among the vegetation along the shoreline. Fish such as catfish, bass, and sunfish school around aquatic vegetation while birds like herons, egrets, and osprey soar above in search of prey. Land mammals such as raccoons, opossums, and even the occasional river otter can also be spotted in and around the springs.
What Are the Most Popular Springs in Florida?
Here is a list of some of the most popular natural springs found within the state of Florida:
Ichetucknee Springs State Park
Wakulla Springs State Park
Blue Springs State Park
Rainbow Springs State Park
DeLeon Springs State Park
Manatee Springs State Park
Silver Springs State Park
Juniper Springs Recreation Area
Fanning Springs State Park
Ginnie Springs
Madison Blue Springs State Park
Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park
Wekiwa Springs
Devil's Den
Three Sisters Springs
Rock Springs Run
Alexander Springs
Homosassa Springs
Manatee Springs
Deer Springs
What Are the Threats to Florida's Springs
Florida's natural springs are facing several serious threats that could lead to long-term degradation. The main threats include pollution from fertilizer runoff, over-pumping of aquifers, sewage discharge, and unsustainable tourism.
Fertilizer runoff from lawns and agricultural fields is a primary source of nitrogen pollution in Florida's springs. It can cause algal blooms that reduce light penetration, oxygen, and aquatic life. Over-pumping of aquifers can cause the water table to drop, reducing spring flow which can seriously harm native species. Sewage discharges from wastewater treatment plants also add nitrates and phosphates to the spring environment, contributing to algal blooms and disruption of the natural environment. Over-tourism puts pressure on fragile habitats, resulting in further decline in the ecosystem.
If left unchecked, these threats will certainly lead to the long-term degradation of Florida's springs and the aquatic life that inhabits them. In fact, without proper protection, these incredible ecosystems may be lost forever.
To preserve Florida's natural springs, we must take steps to protect them from these threats. This includes ensuring that fertilizer and sewage runoff is properly treated before entering the environment, limiting the over-pumping of aquifers, and implementing catchment systems and other measures to reduce pollution. In addition, conservation efforts such as habitat restoration projects can help to support the natural springs and their associated ecosystems. Finally, educating the public on how to visit the springs responsibly is essential to minimize the damage caused by tourism.
Why Healthy Natural Springs Are Important To Ocean Conservation
It's incredibly important to protect these delicate environmental treasures, not just for the animals that depend upon them for survival, but for the ocean as well. Polluted freshwater springs are a major source of water pollution that can have devastating consequences for the ocean. When polluted water from freshwater springs flows into rivers and streams, it carries with it pollutants such as agricultural runoff, sewage leakage, and nutrient run-off. These pollutants can then be carried downstream to the ocean where they can cause significant damage to marine ecosystems. Excessive nitrogen and phosphorus deposits in water can lead to algal blooms, which deplete oxygen levels and cause widespread destruction of fish populations as well as other hazardous effects on oceanic wildlife. In addition, contaminants like heavy metals and toxic chemicals can accumulate in the food chain and eventually end up in our seafood supply. We must take steps to protect freshwater springs from pollution to safeguard both the land and the ocean for future generations.
What You Can Do To Help Protect Florida’s Springs
Unfortunately, Florida's amazing springs are seriously threatened due to factors like sewage pollution, agricultural runoff, and overpumping of groundwater. If we don’t take action now, their beauty may soon be gone forever. From becoming an educated advocate to participating in clean-up events, there are many different ways you can make a meaningful difference in the fight to save these special places.
Protecting Florida's springs requires a collective effort from government agencies, local communities, organizations, and individuals. Everyone can play an important role in preserving these natural wonders for all the creatures that depend upon them. Here is a quick list of some things you can do to help protect the springs:
Educate yourself and others about the importance of springs, threats to their health, and what you can do to protect them.
Take part in local clean-up projects or volunteer with organizations that are dedicated to protecting springs.
Take a stand against the causes of harmful water pollution in Florida. Examine the various sources of pollution, such as fertilizer runoff and wastewater, and learn how to take action to prevent them.
Discover how to participate in local efforts to protect the springs and how citizen science projects can help make a difference.
Avoid activities that may cause negative impacts on springs such as discarding trash, releasing chemicals, and discharging pollutants.
Support legislation that promotes spring protection as laws can be effective tools in preserving these precious resources.
Speak up when you see any potential threats to springs from visitors (but only if you think it's safe).
Join the conversation on social media and share your tips for protecting the beautiful ecosystem of Florida’s natural springs.
Donate to organizations doing great work, such as the Florida Springs Institute.
By working together to protect Florida's springs, we can ensure that these natural wonders remain pristine for generations to come.
Tips for Visiting Florida Springs Responsibly
Research Before You Go: Learn about the area and any regulations you should follow.
Respect Nature: Follow the Leave No Trace principles and stay on designated trails.
Respect the Water: Don't disrespect the water by swimming in areas where it is forbidden or polluting the environment.
Leave It Better Than You Found It: Pick up any trash you may find and be aware of the impact of your actions.
Respect the Locals: Be mindful of the local regulations and customs, and respect the locals and their homes.
Share Your Responsible Visiting Experience: Encourage others to visit Florida's springs responsibly by sharing your experience.
Follow the Rules: Understand and abide by the rules and regulations set in place to ensure the safety of yourself and the environment.
Respect Wildlife: Keep a respectful distance and do not touch any wildlife or disturb the natural habitat. Feeding and touching wildlife can be dangerous and stressful for them.
Keep it Clean: Dispose of trash and recyclables in designated areas or take your trash away with you.
Minimize the Noise: Noise pollution disrupts the natural harmony of the springs, making it harder for species to communicate and coexist peacefully.
Avoid Chemical Sunscreens: Chemicals in sunscreens are known to harm marine animals. Opt for sun protection clothing or chemical-free mineral sunscreens.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Know your limits, recognize potential hazards, and be aware of the impact your actions have on the environment.
Disinfect Your Gear: Be sure to properly clean your underwater equipment, shoes, walking sticks, etc., to avoid carrying invasive species from one area to another.
Educate Yourself and Spread the Word: Research the area and stay up to date with any environmental concerns. Share this information with others to encourage responsible behavior.
Share on Social Media: If you post on Instagram or Facebook, be sure to include a shout-out to the importance of protecting these natural springs.
Get Involved: Join, support, or donate to organizations with a mission to protect Florida’s springs.
Advocate For Nature: Don’t be afraid to get involved politically if you see injustice to the environment.
Rock Springs Run at King’s Landing, one of the natural springs in Florida.
Thank you for caring about Florida’s Springs.
EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES
- https://floridasprings.org/springs-101/
- https://floridasprings.org/
- https://floridasprings.org/florida-springs-map/
- https://www.floridaspringlife.com/florida-springs/
- https://databayou.com/florida/springs.html
- https://floridaspringsinstitute.org/springs-map-2-0/
- https://floridaspringsinstitute.org/florida-springs-welcome-center-our-vision/
- https://floridaspringsinstitute.org/springswatch/
- https://www.floridastateparks.org/learn/springs-florida-state-parks
- https://floridadep.gov/springs
- https://eos.org/articles/groundwater-is-the-hidden-connection-between-land-and-sea
- https://floridaspringsinstitute.org/stop-subsidizing-those-who-harm-springs-through-pumping-pollution/
- https://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us/projects/springs/7-tips-enjoy-three-sisters-springs-responsibly
- https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FE958
- https://www.mysuwanneeriver.com/270/Protecting-Our-Springs
IMAGE/VIDEO CREDITS