The Florida Madcaps
A podcast about Florida’s natural areas around the state that offer fantastic recreation opportunities. There is much more to Florida than theme parks and overcrowded beaches. Three veteran Florida enthusiasts Chris, Chelsey, and Ryan share their travel experiences and perspective for exploring the Sunshine State. Each episode will delve into the natural and fascinating aspects of Florida, including the trails, beaches, springs, history, ecological issues, and recreational opportunities.
National Public Lands Day 2025 and Florida's National Parks
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This week is part 1 of 2 of our podcast of National Public Lands Day and Florida's National Parks. Started in 1994 and occurring on the 4th Saturday in September, National Public Lands Day celebrates our public lands with volunteer opportunities and events. Many of our national parks are free, so we decided to discuss the significant ones in Florida! Enjoy!
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Dark Skies over the Everglades with Anthony Sleiman
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This week, the Madcaps were extremely fortunate to have special guest Anthony Sleiman, who is well known for his dark sky photography in the Everglades. Anthony shares how he became fascinated with the Everglades and some interesting stories of his adventures. To see Anthony's amazing work, check out the links below.
website: https://www.anthonysleiman.com/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/Anthsleiman/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/anthsleimanphotography
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Cabins in Florida's Parks Part 3! The final Episode!
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Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcaps
Questions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.com
Ryan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/
Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sunshinestateseekers/?hl=en
More Cabins to rent in Florida, adventure included!
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This week the Madcaps continue on their list of parks and places that have cabins for rent in Florida. Sometimes, dealing with the heat while camping and lugging around a ton of gear isn't for everyone. Some want to enjoy what the park has to offer, then retire to a climate-controlled space with a comfortable bed. Well, there are just over 20 Florida State Parks that offer cabins with varying amenities from bunkhouses to modern buildings, these parks are worth checking out. The cabins can be quite affordable and are in demand, so plan your...
Florida State Park Cabins: Enjoying the Nature While Beating the Heat!
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Sometimes, dealing with the heat while camping and lugging around a ton of gear isn't for everyone. Some want to enjoy what the park has to offer, then retire to a climate controlled space with a comfortable bed. Well, there are just over 20 Florida State Parks that offer cabins with varying amenities from bunkhouses to modern buildings, these parks are worth checking out. The cabins can be quite affordable and are in demand, so plan your visit well in advance!
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Santa Fe River and Springs, revisiting one of our popular podcasts.
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With the summer heat at all time highs, one of the best ways to cool off is in some of our springs and rivers. The Santa Fe River has some fantastic springs and things to do. We discuss them here in this episode from summer a couple of years ago!
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Leading Adventures in Florida: The Madcaps Share Their Experieces
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This week, the Madcaps discuss activity leading in Florida. Leaning on their training and experiences, they discuss sharing some of the natural areas of Florida with others in a group setting.
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Questions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.com
Ryan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_e...
Tips for Outdoor Fun by the Madcaps
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A repost of one of our popular episodes last year, it's the Madcaps tips for having fun in Florida's outdoors with the heat other
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Questions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.com
Ryan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/
Chris and Chelsey can b...
Southwest Florida's Outdoor Gem: Crew Land and Water Trust (CREW).
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This week the Madcaps have special guest Robin Serne from CREW to discuss the ecological importance of the Corkscrew Regional Ecosystem Watershed (CREW) and some of the recreational opportunities there. From alligators to Florida Panthers, many species call this area home.
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Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcaps
Questions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.com
Ryan can be fo...
Silver Springs and the Silver River with Lars Andersen
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Lars Andersen, noted Florida guide and Florida Master Naturalist Instructor, joins us to discuss the various aspects of Silver Springs and the Silver River.
Lar's Website:
https://adventureoutpost.net/
Lar's Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/lars.andersen.3388/
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Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcaps
Questions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@g...
The Ocklawaha: History, Geology, and Environmental Challenges with Lars Andersen
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This week Lars, a guide in Florida with decades of experience discusses various aspects of the amazing Ocklawaha River in north central Florida.
Lar's Website:
https://adventureoutpost.net/
Lar's Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/lars.andersen.3388/
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Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcaps
Questions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail...
Exploring the Santa Fe River with Lars Andersen
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This week the Madcaps discuss the Santa Fe River and region with Lars Andersen, a Florida legend who has spent decades as a guide in northeast and north central Florida.
Lar's Website:
https://adventureoutpost.net/
Lar's Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/lars.andersen.3388/
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Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcaps
Questions and c...
Fun of Florida's waters. The basics of kayaking in Florida.
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A listener suggested this awesome episode. This week the Madcaps discuss some of the basics of kayaking from their perspective after paddling dozens of miles in Florida's waterways.
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Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcaps
Questions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.com
Ryan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/
C...
Exploring Even MORE Springs with Danielle of the Florida Springs Passport!
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This week Ryan and Danielle finish discussing the rest of the springs located in the Florida Springs Passport Vol. 1. If you are looking for some new springs to visit this episode covers the basic info for a number of awesome springs in Florida!
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Questions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.com
Ryan c...
Exploring the Florida Springs with Danielle.
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Since it is officially springs season in Florida. Ryan and Danielle of the Florida Springs Passport give an overview of the springs listed in the passport. So if you have springs on your mind or just wanted to learn about some possible new ones you haven't visited. This is the episode for you!
The Florida Springs Passport is available at:
https://floridaspringspassport.com/
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Guana River Wildlife Management Area
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While Guana River WMA is in the news now due to an attempted land swap. This week Ryan, Sarah, and Nancy discuss what makes Guana great as far as wildlife, history, and recreation opportunities.
Guana River WMA
https://myfwc.com/recreation/lead/guana-river/
GTM: One of Florida's three Estuarine Reserch Reserves
https://gtmnerr.org/
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Stories of Springs Trip Mishaps... What Could & Did Go Wrong.
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*Correction in the podcast. The wreck of the Confederate Steamship Madison in Troy Spring is from the Civil War not WW2*
This week Ryan and Danielle discuss some of the minor mishaps that have occurred while they have explored the springs and how to avoid repeating them. From unexpected thunderstorms to paddleboard falls we cover some of the more significant things that have gone wrong.
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Having Fun Responsibly in Everglades National Park with guest Rachael!
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This week Rachael aka Lady Florida (https://www.instagram.com/_lady_florida?igsh=Nml5czJrZDVpNzZk) discusses enjoying and responsible behavior in Everglades National Park.
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Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcaps
Questions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.com
Ryan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/
Chris and Chelsey can b...
The Pioneer Trail One of Florida's Iconic Trails
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This week the Madcaps discuss Chris and Chelsey's two day hike on the Pioneer Trail in Jennings State Forest. The flagship trail in Florida State Forests and one of the best in the state. Located in Northeast Florida not far from Jacksonville, it is a bucket list hike.
Info on the trail can be found here:
https://www.fdacs.gov/Forest-Wildfire/Our-Forests/State-Forests/Jennings-State-Forest/Pioneer-Trail
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Hitting the Springs in 2025 with Danielle of the Florida Springs Passport
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While Chris and Chelsey are out and about in Florida, Danielle of the Florida Springs Passport joined the podcast. This week we discussed the things to know when visiting the springs this summer and some of our favorite ones to enjoy.
To learn more about the springs or to purchase a Florida Springs Passport go to: https://floridaspringspassport.com/
Each purchase benefits a couple of organizations that advocate for the springs here in Florida.
Ichetuknee Springs State Park Map
https://ichetuckneesprings.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/2022-Ichetucknee-Springs-Park-Map.pd...
Even More Happy Places
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This week the Madcaps share even more of their favorite Florida happy places in the environment. Torreya State Park, Lime Sink Run, and more are discussed.
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Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcaps
Questions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.com
Ryan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/
Chris and C...
Florida's State and National Forests
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This week the Madcaps discuss the various state and national forests in Florida and some of the rules and policies that govern them.
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Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcaps
Questions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.com
Ryan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/
Chris and Chelsey can be f...
State Park Love Fest: Supporting the Protection of Florida State Parks
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This weekend (April 5th-6th) is the Florida State Park love fest occurring in multiple state parks around the state. Activities include various activities from sign waving, hiking, potluck picnics, and more, depending on the event location. To find out what is going on in a park near you, go to:
https://savefloridaparks.com/.
Many remember the surprise attempts to develop our Florida State Parks last August. Some lawmakers have put forth bills that prevent that from happening again, yet there are loopholes that...
The Madcaps Happy Places in Florida
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After traveling hundreds of thousands of miles and visiting Florida's natural areas, the Madcaps discuss which parts of Florida bring them joy. This episode covers:
Topsail Hill
Rock Springs Run
Magniloa Lake
The Everglades
Emerald Coast
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Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcaps
Questions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.com
Hiking adventures in St Johns Water Management District Properties Part 2
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This week the Madcaps Discuss their hiking adventures in St Johns Water Management District Properties and we mention those that we have yet to explore. To see the full list check out this link:
https://www.sjrwmd.com/lands/recreation/list/
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Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcaps
Questions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.com
Rainbow River and the Ichetucknee! The Madcaps Talk Paddling!
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This week the Madcaps discuss paddling on the Rainbow River and Ichetuknee River! Both offer some great views of clear spring runs. Unfortunately, there is a bill that is going through the legislature that is going to remove rules that prohibit single-use plastics and containers on these rivers. Follow the Florida Excursionist and The Florida Springs Council on social media to see how you can make a difference!
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Responsible Behavior While Encountering Manatees with TJ and Jessica
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This week Ryan, Jessica (IG walkandpaddle), and TJ a manatee biologist from the Save the Manatee Club discuss responsible behaviors when encountering manatees in the various waterways of Florida.
As the Manatee Biologist for Save the Manatee Club, Tiare 'TJ' Fridrich works to protect manatees and their aquatic habitats by collaborating with stakeholders statewide, advocating for stronger protections at all government levels, leveraging the best available science to guide conservation efforts and improve management strategies, and by addressing gaps in data collection efforts and public education. TJ leads the Guardian Guides...
Madcaps Paddle Adventures in Florida Part 2!
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This week the Madcaps discuss some of their paddling adventures on Florida waterways. There are some recommended and not-so-recommended paddle spots between us.
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Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcaps
Questions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.com
Ryan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/
Chris and Chelsey can be f...
Water Management District Trails Florida's Local Treasures
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This week the Madcaps discuss the trails within some of the properties of the St Johns Water Management District. These are rarely used by comparison to some of the major trails in Florida and offer glimpses into lesser known natural areas.
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Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcaps
Questions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.com
Ryan can be f...
Discussing Florida State Parks with Max Chesnes and Federico Acevedo Live at the FSC Springs Summit
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This week Ryan and Cathy of the Florida Spectacular Podcast (check them out!) interview Federico Acevedo and Max Chesnes both who played a role of providing information to the public during the Florida State Park Development fiasco and discuss the events during this podcast.
Some info about our guests:
Federico Acevedo is a passionate wildlife photographer and birder, using the power of visual storytelling to connect Florida’s community with our region’s unique fauna and flora. He enjoys adventuring in the outdoors, and visiting our state and national park...
Discussing Manatees with Manatee Biologist TJ Live at the FSC Springs Summit
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This week is the first half of the live recording of a collaboration podcast between Ryan of The Florida Madcaps and Cathy Salustri of The Florida Spectacular Podcast. Recorded in front of an audience. TJ of the Save The Manatee Club discussed all things manatees.
Some info our our guest TJ:
As the Manatee Biologist for Save the Manatee Club, Tiare 'TJ' Fridrich works to protect manatees and their aquatic habitats by collaborating with stakeholders statewide, advocating for stronger protections at all government levels, leveraging the bes...
The Madcaps Favorite Paddle Destinations in Florida
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This week the Madcaps take turns discussing their favorite paddle destinations in Florida. There are too many for this episode so expect more!
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Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcaps
Questions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.com
Ryan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/
Chris and Chelsey can be f...
Historical Destinations Near Florida's First Coast
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This week Bree from @hiberniahistory (filling in for the ever adventuring Sunshine State Seekers) and Ryan discuss their favorite destinations along Florida's First Coast from the little-known area of Hibernia to the plantation ruins around Ormond Beach.
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Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcaps
Questions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.com
Ryan can be found on Instagram at...
Micro Hikes: Make a Hike of Any Distance an Adventure!
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This week the Madcaps discuss micro hiking. Which is often what naturalists do by paying attention to the details to the wildlife, vegetation, tracks, and signs of wildlife on the trail. It can take a short hike and turn it into an adventure. There are various apps and resources to help!
https://www.inaturalist.org/ (plant and animal identification app/website)
https://merlin.allaboutbirds.org/ (bird ID, uses your smartphone microphone to listen and identify birds)
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Even More Madcaps Everglades Adventures
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Our guest this week can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/hiberniahistory/
The Nike Missle Site Festival details can be found at:
https://www.nps.gov/ever/planyourvisit/nike-site-festival.htm
This week the Madcaps discuss the rest of their Everglades experiences such as hiking the pine rocklands, the Nike Missle Site, and Shark Valley.
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Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://w...
The Madcaps Camp at Everglades National Park
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On this week's episode the Madcaps camp at Everglades National Park and discuss their experiences hiking and enjoying the fascinating Everglades Ecosystem.
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Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcaps
Questions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.com
Ryan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/
Chris and Chelsey can be found at...
More Florida Wildlife Encounters
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This week the Madcaps continue the discussion of their encounters with wildlife while enjoying the outdoors in Florida.
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Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcaps
Questions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.com
Ryan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/
Chris and Chelsey can be found at https://www.instagram...
Tales of the Madcaps Encounters with Florida Wildlife.
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This week the Madcaps discuss the wildlife encounters that they have had while exploring Florida from freeloading raccoons to swinging monkeys.
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Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcaps
Questions and comments can be emailed at thefloridamadcaps@gmail.com
Ryan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_fl_excursionist/
Chris and Chelsey can be found at...
The best and worst of 2024 when it comes to Florida's environment as well as a 2025 "Wish List"
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This week Ryan & Ryan share their personal lists of what was good & bad in 2024 as well as a "wish list" of what they would hope to see happen in 2025.
If you would like to also make a difference in the New Year attend the DEP Harm Rule hearings at 9:00 AM on January 6th, 2025 in Tallahassee or submit a comment. Details can be found at: https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/springsharmrule
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Florida Officials Complaining about Conservation Lands, Green Washing, and Watering Down Water Legislation
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Become a Florida Springs Council Informed Member - https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/informed-membership
Learn about Springs Water Quality Plans - https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/springsbmaps
Learn about Springs Harm Rule Lawsuit - https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/springsharmrule
Senate Bill 552 - https://flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2016/552
Florida Springs by Dr. Chris Meindl - https://upf.com/book.asp?id=9780813079158
Find your Legislative Delegation Meetings - https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/legislativesession
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