Media Release

ALACHUA COUNTY - Alachua County, in cooperation with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), will be installing "Springs Protection Area" signs adjacent to selected county and state roadways.  Approximately 60 signs will be installed by FDOT and Alachua County on selected county and state roads in portions of northwestern Alachua County, northeastern Gilchrist County, and southern Columbia County.

Alachua County Environmental Protection Director Chris Bird stated, "These signs are intended to be an important first step in raising public awareness on the need to better protect our local springs.  During the past few years, we have discovered that the springs on the Santa Fe River are increasingly being threatened by multiple sources of pollution including the use of fertilizers, land development, and inadequate waste treatment and disposal.   Our success in protecting and restoring these precious waterways will require the cooperation of area residents and visitors."

Citizens requiring further information can call the Alachua County Environmental Protection Department at (352) 264-6800.  Press inquiries should be directed to Chris Bird at (352) 264-6802.