Florida spring restoration receives $100 million boost for 45 projects

Gov. Ron DeSantis awarded $100 million for 45 projects to restore Florida’s springs and expand alternative water supplies, splitting the funding evenly between two grant programs administered by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.The Springs Restoration Grant Program will provide $50 million for 23 projects expected to reduce nitrogen pollution by more than 55,000 pounds annually through wastewater upgrades and environmental improvements. Awards include:$3 million for Citrus County’s septic-to-sewer conversion project benefiting Chassahowitzka-Homosassa Springs, Kings Bay and Crystal River Springs.$3 million for the Suwannee River Water Management District’s acquisition of the Drew Property in the Suwannee Sandhill Tract.$3 million for DeLand’s regional pump station and sewer extension.$4 million for Volusia County’s septic upgrade incentive program.Since 2019, Florida has invested $480 million in springs restoration, with an estimated annual reduction of 900,000 pounds