Alachua County Environmental Protection Department (ACEPD) encourages residents and visitors to recreate responsibly and protect springs. Thanks to the Fish and Wildlife Foundation of Florida’s “Protect Florida Springs” tag grant, ACEPD distributes free materials to vacation rental properties, encouraging visitors to “Feet Up and Float” and follow important guidelines around manatee viewing.
"Many visitors come to Florida and Alachua County to enjoy the beauty of the springs, but it's important to recognize how we can all play a role in protecting these delicate ecosystems,” said Alachua County Senior Environmental Specialist Lindsey Pavao. “By practicing safe and responsible behaviors, we can help preserve the health of these springs for future generations to enjoy.”
Sandy bottoms in springs and rivers are evidence of human foot traffic or anchoring, which damages aquatic plants. A healthy spring has a variety of vegetation that helps with water quality and wildlife habitat. Fish, turtles, manatees, and other wildlife rely on submerged plants for food and shelter.
Additionally, ACEPD wants visitors to be aware that manatees frequent the springs and rivers and that it is important to give them space if they are encountered. Through a partnership with Save the Manatee Club, ACEPD monitors how manatees use the waterways in and around Alachua County. Citizens can contribute to this research by reporting healthy manatee sightings to the Florida Springs Heartland Manatee Sighting Network.
Magnets and pamphlets are available by filling out this form.
This project is partly funded by a grant from the nonprofit Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida (FWFF) via proceeds from the ‘Protect Florida Springs’ tag. Since its founding, the Foundation has raised and given away more than $71 million for conservation, outdoor recreation and youth programs and camps. For more information, please visit www.wildlifeflorida.org.
For more information, contact Lindsey Pavao at 352-264-6859 or lrpavao@alachuacounty.us.
