Protection of Silver Springs
http://www.dep.state.fl.us/secretary...12/1226_01.htm
State Completes First Phase of Purchase to Protect Silver Springs
--Acquisition preserves more than 2,600 acres of pristine recharge area for springs--
TALLAHASSEE – The state recently completed the first phase of a 4,471-acre purchase near Silver Springs as part of the Florida First Magnitude Springs Florida Forever project. A partnership with The Nature Conservancy (TNC) and Marion County, the full 4,471 acres was purchased by TNC from Avatar Properties and will be resold to the state in two phases. With the first purchase of approximately 2,677 acres complete, the remaining 1,793 acres will be purchased next fiscal year.
“Silver Springs is a popular destination for visitors and an important part of Florida’s heritage,” said Governor Jeb Bush. “This purchase protects almost 4,500 acres near one of the largest artesian springs in the world from development, and preserves the water quality of the spring and wildlife habitat for future generations.”
This purchase protects habitat for rare and endangered species, including the bald eagle, Florida black bear and gopher tortoise. With 13 known sinkholes, the area acts as a pristine recharge area for one of the largest first magnitude springs in the nation. In addition, Silver Springs has served as the setting for the “Sea Hunt” television series starring Lloyd Bridges and many feature films, including the film “Hoot” released in 2005.
“This purchase is critical to the protection of one of the largest springs in the nation and one of the state’s most famous natural resources,” said Keith Fountain, director of land acquisition for The Nature Conservancy. “Not only does this acquisition maintain the integrity of Silver Springs, the site is primarily rare sandhill habitat, which is home to many rare species.”
The Florida First Magnitude Springs Florida Forever project, which the acquisition is a part of, focuses on land near Florida’s first magnitude springs that discharge more than 100 cubic feet of water per second. Florida’s springs, scattered through northern and central Florida, contribute to the Floridan Aquifer and the drinking water of Florida’s residents. The springs, with clear, continuously flowing waters, are among Florida’s most important natural resources and are famous tourist attractions.
“With phase one complete, we are even closer to ensuring that Silver Springs, which pumps out enough water every day to supply the entire city of New York, is protected,” said Florida Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Colleen M. Castille. “This acquisition was essential to maintain the health and wellbeing of the springs for many years to come.”
The Florida Springs Initiative, established by Governor Jeb Bush in 2001, is the first comprehensive, coordinated plan to restore and protect Florida’s more than 700 freshwater springs. Last year the Florida Springs Initiative set aside more than $300,000 to protect spring ecosystems, water quality and flow within Florida’s award-winning state park system.
The 10-year, $3 billion Florida Forever program established by Governor Jeb Bush and the Florida Legislature conserves environmentally sensitive land, restores waterways and preserves important cultural and historical resources. For more information, visit www.FloridaForever.org.
