Through the years, pollutants such as nitrogen and phosphorous have intruded upon these sources of water supply, recreation, and wildlife habitat. There are approximately 600 springs throughout Florida, with most located in the central and northern parts of the state. A total of 33 of these natural treasures are known as First Magnitude Springs , those that discharge the greatest amounts of water per day. These springs will be the first to benefit from appropriated additional funding from the state. They are well worth saving.
Examples are plentiful.
During cold weather months manatees seek refuge in Blue Spring in Volusia County, while Homosassa Springs in Citrus County serves as both a home and refuge to numerous manatees. Discharges from Devil s Ear Spring in Gilchrist County flows through caves reported to be more than 4,000 feet long and 85-100 feet deep. Silver Springs is Florida s most famous and has been a tourist attraction since the late 1800s. Visitors can view many species of fish, turtles and aquatic plants through glass bottom boats. During the past two years funding for the environment has steadily increased and we are convinced that House Speaker Feeney and Senate President McKay are committed to increasing the funds available for our natural resources.