WE MUST PROTECT WAKULLA SPRINGS

Editor, The Sun:

Many things in local government have political sides and can be very divisive. Even here in Wakulla County. However, perhaps the one thing that enjoys broad consensus, if not unanimity, is the need to protect our water. More specifically, our local gem, Wakulla Springs.

A recent discovery by the Woodville Karst Plain Project research divers confirmed an even greater connection between sinkholes, the underground cave system and Wakulla Springs than was previously known. WKPP established the connection from “Chip’s Hole,” a sinkhole near the Bloxham Cutoff intersection with Crawfordville Highway, to Wakulla Springs. Now with more than 40 miles of mapped tunnels and over 30 surface connections identified, the underwater cave system that emerges at Wakulla Springs is the largest known underground river in the entire country.

With this latest revelation, now is the time to ensure our water resources are fully protected. Not only is this cave system unique to this region; it also lies below the rapid growth and development throughout Wakulla County. It’s more important than ever that we prevent pollution and destruction to this great resource vital to our region’s well-being.

Back in the 2000s, when the WKPP research identified more connection of sinks, tunnels and Wakulla Springs than previously known, citizens took charge to significantly expand the “Wakulla Springs Protection Zone.”  Working with regional experts, the zone boundaries were redrawn and adopted by the Wakulla Board of County Commissioners in 2008. This zone covers much, but not all of the springshed. In addition, there are very minimal environmental protections compared to other areas. Much more can and should be done. For example, regulations should limit pollution caused by various types of development within the zone and even more so over the cave system. After all, the same water that comes out at Wakulla Springs also serves as the drinking water for much of citizenry in the spring basin.

The county and region united many times over the years to protect our local gem, Wakulla Springs. Let’s all unite again to ensure our rapid growth doesn’t ruin one of the very assets that makes this region so economically viable and attractive.

Chad Hanson Crawfordville