The Southwest Florida Water Management District's (District) Governing Board recognized Lace Blue-McLean as this year’s springs community partner, while declaring April Springs Protection Awareness Month.
Blue-McLean is the chair of the Save Our Waters Week Committee, which was formed more than 20 years ago to bring awareness to water issues in Citrus County. Each year, she dedicates countless hours to organizing the weeklong event. Through free tours, cleanups and other educational presentations, the event gives the public a hands-on look at the importance of protecting local water resources.
In support of the Florida Legislature’s adopted resolution declaring April 2019 as Springs Protection Awareness Month, the Governing Board also emphasized that springs are vital to the environment, economy, citizens and visitors of the state. The District, in partnership with various stakeholders, is committed to implementing projects to conserve and restore the ecological balance of our spring systems, supporting the regional economies and quality of life.
There are more than 150 documented springs throughout the 16-county District, with five first-magnitude spring groups that collectively discharge more than 1 billion gallons of water per day.
You can find more information about springs on our website at WaterMatters.org/Springs.