Gov. Ron DeSantis proclaimed April as Springs Protection Awareness Month, recognizing springs as a natural resource unique to Florida.
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) celebrated the month in recognition of the environmental, recreational and economic importance of Florida’s 900 iconic freshwater springs.
“Springs are vital to the environment, economy, citizens and visitors of the state,” said Brian Armstrong, executive director of the Southwest Florida Water Management District, in a release.
“The District, in partnership with DEP, the governor and the Legislature, is committed to implementing projects to conserve and restore the ecological balance of our spring systems, supporting the regional economies and quality of life,” Armstrong added.
Brett Cyphers, executive director of the Northwest Florida Water Management District, pointed out that under Gov. DeSantis and DEP Secretary Noah Valenstein, northwest Florida is making real transformative progress with springs restoration and water quality improvement.
And, Hugh Thomas, executive director of the Suwannee River Water Management District, said “Florida is entering a remarkable era for environmental protection” under the leadership of DeSantis and Valenstein.
As per the proclamation, the Bold Vision for a Brighter Future budget recommends $50 million in funding to restore the state’s world-renowned springs, and safeguard these natural resources through nationally recognized water quality assessment and restoration programs.
In celebration of Springs Protection Awareness Month, DEP partnered with Florida’s water management districts to continue the statewide public education initiative, “My Home. My Springs.”
The initiative highlights the uniqueness and importance of the state’s springs, as well as the restoration efforts and the expertise behind them.
Residents can access informative resources, such as fact sheets, videos, educator resources, a springs locator tool and more by visiting MyHomeMySprings.org.
Published May 01, 2019
