History of the River Restoration
Over three years from concept to clean up
The State of Florida Department of Environmental Protection funded the Homosassa River Restoration in August of 2019. The call came in just over three years from the time that Homosassa residents decided to act. Read the full story of how this effort began, gained support, and finally began work.
The River Restoration is a long term effort. Local people are managing this like a business, but without pay. Explore the project’s background and history in these pages. Find out what it took to get this project to “go” in the articles below.
2016
The vision of a river restoration crystalizes when a group of local citizens decide to Do Something.
Do Something
For years the residents and visitors to Homosassa had talked about what could be done to improve the water quality.
2017
Reaching a goal requires more than a vision. To begin making a large change requires Gaining Support.
Gaining Support
Having a vision and a team is not enough. It takes endurance, planning, and determination to gain government funding.
2019
The River Restoration Project moves from planning to execution. The project contracted for services Let’s Make a Deal.
Let’s make a deal
For years the residents and visitors to Homosassa had talked about what could be done to improve the water quality.
2020
With money, permission, and the supplies needed to start, clean up work begins On the Waterfront.
On the Waterfront
The first actions to set up restoration equipment have happened, along the shoreline of canals in Homosassa.
Learn about Florida Springs Projects
Each year the State of Florida funds $50 million toward its springs.
“In 2016, the Florida Legislature identified 30 Outstanding Florida Springs that require additional protections to ensure their conservation and restoration for future generations. These protections are outlined in water quality restoration plans, known as Basin Management Action Plans (BMAPs). These plans are focused on reducing nitrogen pollution impacting the water quality of these springs. In June 2018 DEP adopted 13 restoration plans, addressing all 24 nitrogen-impaired Outstanding Florida Springs.”
Learn more about efforts to protect Florida’s springs here.