About the Springs
The Rainbow River is a first-magnitude spring system originating in Marion County. Rainbow Springs is the headwaters of this short, freshwater river flowing nearly 6 miles from the headsprings to where it meets the Withlacoochee River.
Many springs make up the Rainbow River system. These springs comprise the Rainbow Springs group, which is the fourth largest spring group in Florida based on the amount of discharge. Many of these springs are located in the upper portions of the river, including within the Rainbow Springs State Park boundaries. The headwaters of Rainbow River are composed of a 250-foot diameter, semicircular spring pool with four main boils. Other springs contribute to the flow downstream, including springs located in the Indian Creek tributary. Bubbling sand boils also can be seen within the river.
The Rainbow springshed, which contributes groundwater to the Rainbow Springs system, is approximately 735 square miles and covers a significant land area in Alachua, Levy and Marion counties. Rainfall in this region directly affects the amount of water discharged from the springs by impacting the water level in the aquifer, which provides the driving force for spring flow.
Challenges
The primary issues facing this system include nitrate enrichment, potential decreases in historical flows, and the presence of invasive aquatic vegetation. Nitrate concentrations are higher compared to historical concentrations in many springs in the Rainbow River system. These elevated concentrations can have adverse effects on the ecosystem. Long-term spring flow is largely affected by rainfall patterns and to a lesser extent by groundwater withdrawals. The Rainbow River system has an adopted Minimum Flows and Levels (MFL). Although submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) communities are currently healthy in the upper reaches of the river, invasive SAV species and algae are more abundant in the lower portions of the river.
Unique Features
Rainbow River is known for its natural beauty and aesthetics. The water coming from the springs is so clear visibility near the headsprings can exceed 250 ft, which is equal to the height of a Giant Sequoia tree.
The river has drawn visitors to its sapphire-blue waters for centuries. Archaeologists believe that early Native American hunters camped around Rainbow Springs 10,000 years ago and several prehistoric sites have been identified. Some of the first known settlers came to the Rainbow Springs area around 1854, and the discovery of hard rock phosphate deposits in 1890 triggered a mining boom.
From the late 19th century until the early 20th century, Rainbow River and its immediate surroundings were mined for phosphate. The lands surrounding the headsprings became a privately-owned tourist attraction from the 1930s through the 1970s. After the private park closed, the lands were unmanaged until the State of Florida took over the property in 1990 and created the Rainbow Springs State Park.
This winding river is home to many different plant and animal species. Visitors can spot river otters, wood ducks, and over 20 different types of fish species swimming in the river. Various birds, snakes, alligators, and turtles may be observed along the banks.
Gallery
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