FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Aug. 12, 2014
DEP HOSTS MEETING TO DISCUSS RESTORATION PLAN FOR WEEKI WACHEE SPRINGS
~DEP continues to develop restoration plan in the Weeki Wachee springs basin ~
BROOKSVILLE – The Florida Department of Environmental Protection invites local governments, scientists, environmentalists, agricultural producers and other interested parties to a restoration plan development workshop for the Weeki Wachee Springs group.
WHAT: Meeting to Discuss Weeki Wachee Springs Restoration Plan
WHEN: Friday, August 15
10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
WHERE: Southwest Florida Water Management District Office
Room 112
2379 Broad Street
Brooksville, Florida 34604
“Weeki Wachee is a valuable spring system that is affected by nutrient pollution, or excessive amounts of nitrogen in the water,” said Tom Frick, director of the Division of Environmental Assessment and Restoration. “DEP is committed to working alongside the public to develop an informed and appropriate restoration plan.”
At this meeting, representatives will discuss how to identify and quantify sources of nutrient pollution in the Weeki Wachee spring system and river. Representatives from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services will discuss best management practices (BMPs) for agricultural producers in the basin. Agricultural best management practices are practical, cost-effective methods that producers can utilize to reduce the amount of pesticides, fertilizers, animal waste and other pollutants reaching Florida’s water resources. Frequently, implementation of BMPs results in both benefits to the environment and cutting costs for the producer.
Algal mats are a concern in Weeki Wachee Springs. When algal mats are present, light for natural vegetation, which is necessary for its growth, is reduced and consequently growth becomes restricted. Algal mats and algal blooms can also cause a variety of ecological impairments, including the potential production of toxins that can cause human or aquatic health problems and reduced oxygen levels in the water. Algal mats can also inhibit navigation and reduce the recreational and aesthetic value of clear springs or spring runs.
Weeki Wachee is a historic and world-renowned tourist attraction that has delighted visitors with an iconic underwater mermaid show since 1947. Weeki Wachee State Park is built around the spring and acts as an environmental and recreational resource for the state. Weeki Wachee Springs and several smaller springs form the headwaters of the Weeki Wachee River, a clear, swift water run that flows westward into the Gulf of Mexico.
The meeting announcement, location, agenda and other information can be viewed here.
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