Environment

UF research finds flood intrusions degrading Florida’s freshwater springs

New University of Florida research shows that heavy rainfall is forcing murky river water back into Florida’s freshwater springs, reversing their natural flow and stripping away water clarity. A study of 62 springs across the Suwannee and Santa Fe River systems found widespread loss of aquatic vegetation, particularly in areas repeatedly affected by these flood-driven reversals. The intrusions compound existing problems such as low oxygen levels and algae blooms, according to UF/IFAS researchers.

Sources: UF News