Cabinet Approves More Acquisitions to Benefit Springs and Water Resources

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 23, 2014
CONTACT: NWFWMD Communications, (850) 539-2663 or Public.Information@yopmail.com

Cabinet Approves More Acquisitions to Benefit Springs and Water Resources

TALLAHASSEE – Today, Governor Rick Scott and the Florida Cabinet approved the acquisition of nearly 350 acres to protect springs, water and natural resources in Washington County. This important parcel contains a 3rd magnitude spring and has more than 2,200 linear feet of water frontage along Holmes Creek.  The newly acquired acreage will be managed by the Northwest Florida Water Management District.

“The District is grateful to Governor Scott and the Cabinet for approving this purchase and their continued commitment to the protection and restoration of Florida’s springs resources,” said Governing Board Chairman George Roberts. “By securing land along Holmes Creek, the state and District are partnering to protect the Creek and the more than 50 crystal-clear springs that feed its flow.”

The acquisition is within the Florida’s First Magnitude Springs Florida Forever Project Boundary and consists of a purchase of 347.6 acres. Along with Brunson Landing Spring, a 3rd magnitude spring that produces an average of 2.6 million gallons of water per day, the property contains two smaller seeps which also feed Holmes Creek.

The parcel consists primarily of bottomland forest and hardwood swamp and lies adjacent to Choctawhatchee River Water Management Area, which is also owned by the District. The District will manage this new parcel as an addition to the water management area, ensuring greater environmental protection while providing public access for recreation.

The parcel contains a popular boat ramp, which will remain open and continue to be managed by Washington County.

“Holmes Creek and its many crystal clear springs are a wonderful source of family-friendly recreation and a major attraction to our area,” said Ted Everett, Executive Director of the Washington County Chamber of Commerce. “Projects like this are a win-win for our communities, as they protect our waterways and make it easier for families to get out and enjoy them.”

The District owns and manages more than 60,000 acres along Holmes Creek and the downstream Choctawhatchee River. Holmes Creek is the largest tributary to the Choctawhatchee, and a popular state-designated canoe trail.