Florida springs get $100M boost

Gov. Ron DeSantis announced $100 million in state grants on Wednesday to fix water quality issues across Florida. He held the press conference in Crystal River to detail the new funding package.

The money is split between 45 different projects. Officials set aside $50 million for 23 initiatives focused on restoring natural freshwater springs. The state expects these upgrades to lower total nitrogen levels by more than 55,000 pounds every year.

"Today in Crystal River, I was proud to announce $100 million for springs restoration and alternative water supply projects throughout Florida," DeSantis said. He added that these strategic investments will build on past progress to protect natural resources.

Alexis A. Lambert, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection secretary, spoke at the event. She noted that the governor has shown a firm commitment to protecting the state's waters year after year.

"We will continue to work cooperatively with local communities to secure the sustainable clean water supply that is critical for Florida's future," Lambert said.

The governor stated that the goal is to leave the state in better condition than they found it. The project distribution details were released by the Executive Office of the Governor alongside the announcement.