United States » Homosassa Springs

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Overview Location & Specifics Conditions Resources Nearby Systems  
Portions of the following information were taken from Florida Geological Survey Bulletin 66.

The springs are located within the Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park and form the headwaters of the Homosassa River. Coming from the north on US 19/98 into Homosassa Springs, turn west (right) on CR 490A and travel 0.5 mile. Turn south (left) on access road to Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park and travel 0.3 mile to park entrance. The spring pool, into which all three vents issue, is just below the underwater viewing platform in the manatee rehabilitation area.

Description - Homosassa Springs Group forms the head of the Homosassa River, which flows west approximately 6 miles to the Gulf of Mexico. Downstream from the head springs about a mile, the spring-fed Halls River flows in from the north. The entire river system is tidally influenced.

HOMOSASSA SPRINGS NOS. 1, 2, and 3 - All three vents issue into the same spring pool. The pool measures 189 ft north to south and 285 ft east to west. The depth for each of the vents is 67, 65, and 62 ft for spring nos. 1, 2, and 3, respectively. The springs issue from a conical depression with limestone exposed along the sides and bottom of the spring pool. The pool is teeming with salt water and freshwater fishes. Water is clear and light blue. There is a large boil in center of pool. Surrounding land is Gulf Coastal Lowlands with thick hardwood-palm forest cover. Approximately 1,000 ft downstream, a fence spans across the river to keep boats out of the spring pool. There also is a barrier immediately outside the spring area which keeps the captive manatees in the spring pool. Manatees frequent the spring pool and river year round, but are especially common in winter. The springs are tidally influenced year round, especially in winter.

Utilization - The main spring pool and adjacent lands are within Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park. The area is developed into an interpretive center for manatee and Florida wildlife education. There is a floating observation deck in the spring pool with a submerged aquatic observation room. Injured and rehabilitating manatees are captive in the spring pool for year round observation. Swimming is not allowed.
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Latitude: 28.798963
Longitude: -82.588322
Zone:
Coordinate System:
Maximum Depth: 67'
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