DeSantis Awards $100M for Florida Springs, Water Supply Projects

Governor Ron DeSantis announced $100 million in funding for 45 water protection projects across Florida on Wednesday, with awards split between springs restoration and alternative water supply initiatives.

The Springs Restoration Grant Program is directing $50 million to 23 projects aimed at improving water quality and spring flow, with a focus on reducing nitrogen pollution. According to the Governor's Press Office, the funded projects are expected to collectively cut Total Nitrogen by more than 55,000 pounds annually. Major recipients include Citrus County, which received $3 million for septic-to-sewer conversion work that will benefit Crystal River Springs and other local water bodies, and Volusia County, which got $3 million for a septic upgrade incentive program to benefit DeLeon Spring.

The remaining $50 million supports 22 alternative water supply projects designed to reduce reliance on traditional freshwater sources and produce over 60 million gallons of water per day. Projects focus on expanding reclaimed water use, aquifer recharge, and conservation. Tampa Bay Water received $10 million to expand surface water treatment capacity, while seven Polk County communities will share $12.6 million for brackish water diversification projects.

Since 2019, Florida has invested $480 million in springs restoration efforts, resulting in an estimated annual nitrogen reduction of approximately 900,000 pounds per year, according to the Governor's office.