When in Drought Webinar Series

Learn about the Impacts & Solutions of Low Spring Flows

Across the state we are experiencing major effects of the ongoing drought, and combined with increased pressures from over-pumping, spring flows are significantly low and pollution continues to build up. This month we sat down with experts to unpack the impacts and solutions of the drought and low spring flows.

Part 1

What we don't often discuss is the impact low flows have on the iconic wildlife of our springs. For part 1 of the series, we sat down with biologists and experts to dive into the overlooked impacts of the drought and low spring flows. Fish Biologist Dr. Ken Sulak and Manatee Biologist Tiare 'TJ' Fridrich joined our live discussion to share stories about the springs species they know best, gulf sturgeon and manatees. Plus, we heard from Christian Aard and Chris Getlinger who spent 8 weeks with Ken, diving a 500-acre pool in the Suwannee River where several hundred sturgeon were stranded. Be sure to watch the discussion to see some of the incredible footage they’ve captured and learn their favorite facts about Gulf sturgeon!

Part 2

For part 2 of the series, we discussed regulatory solutions to improve spring flows. What can our state agencies and state leaders do to ensure we have healthy flows of our springs and rivers? What has the state failed to do to manage our water supply? What can advocates do to protect our springs and help restore the flow?

Stacie Greco from the Alachua County Environmental Protection Department joined us to talk about the great work the county is doing centered on education, incentives and regulations to address water supply issues. Our speakers shared actions they believe FDEP should take to conserve water during the drought as many of our springs are dry and stagnant pools, including water management districts implementing greater water restrictions with mandatory cutbacks for all water use permits. Be sure to watch the webinar to test your knowledge and challenge yourself playing Stacie's 'Irrigated or Not' game!

If you couldn’t tune in for our livestream discussions, part 1 and part 2 are available to watch on YouTube. We appreciate the speakers who joined us to share their expertise and the advocates who tuned in live to ask questions and participate in the discussion.

🤳 Sign up to become a FSC Informed Advocate so you don't miss the opportunity to join future live discussions with springs experts on topics like the upcoming legislative session and how to get more involved in springs advocacy