Florida springs rally slated for Capitol for Feb. 16

A rally for Florida springs protection to be held at the Capitol on Feb. 16, the Florida Wildlife Federation announced Monday.

Springs across the state are become choked with weeds and algae as nitrogen has increased in groundwater flowing from the springs. Sources of nitrogen include septic tanks, stormwater runoff, sewage treatment plants, livestock farms and residential and agricultural fertilizers.

On Feb. 16, local youth will collect a bottle of water from Wakulla Spring and deliver it by relay runners to the Capitol in time for the noon rally. Springs supporters from around the state also will be meeting with House and Senate member to request support for expected springs protection legislation.

Springs bills have failed to pass the Legislature during the past four years as opposition has arisen from agriculture and development interests. The Senate Committee on Florida's Inland Waters this year is holding meetings around the state to develop new springs legislation and is scheduled to meet Feb. 2 at Wakulla Springs State Park from 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.

For more information on the Feb. 16 rally contact, Jim Stevenson at (850) 556-3072 or at florida_springs@comcast.net .