With only 150 submerged acres contained within the aquatic preserve boundaries, it is imperative to maintain the balance between needs of recreational users and the protection of the natural resource. Rainbow Springs Aquatic Preserve encourages the sustainable use of natural resources while minimizing the user impacts. If you are visiting the aquatic preserve through the state park, be sure to review park regulations. However, there is an idle speed boating restriction and a prohibition on disposable containers. Tubing, boating, fishing, snorkeling, kayaking, canoeing and swimming are common activities. It is readily accessible through Rainbow Springs State Park, which surrounds the headwaters of the aquatic preserve, as well as a public boat ramp at KP Hole County Park. Rainbow Springs Aquatic Preserve is a very popular recreational destination due to its crystal-clear spring waters and beautiful scenery. Unlike most other major spring runs in Florida, the spring discharge comes from several vents that are scattered over the first 1.5 miles of the run. Because of this and the high water quality, it is a very popular recreational destination. Its waters have an average temperature of 72 degrees Fahrenheit year-round. Ribbon or tape-like plants are the most common. It is characterized by a high level of submersed aquatic plants. ![]() The run is 5.7 miles long and joins the Withlacoochee River, a black water river, near the town of Dunnellon. It averages a discharge of more than 400 million gallons of water per day. The Rainbow Springs run is one of the largest spring runs in the world. Rainbow Springs State Park surrounds the headsprings and follows much of the east bank of the river. The aquatic preserve includes the length of the Rainbow River and was designated in 1986 for the purpose of maintaining the springhead and river run in essentially natural condition. Rainbow Springs Aquatic Preserve is located in southwest Marion County. While much historic water quality data exists, recent and current research and monitoring for the Rainbow River is being coordinated by SWFWMD and DEP for pollutant load reduction goals (PLRG) and total maximum daily load (TMDL) programs. The aquatic preserve has experienced changes in water quality that have negatively impacted the natural habitats and wildlife as well as decreased the aesthetic benefit for public use. Without adequate safeguards, historical land use or changes in current land uses often lead to degradation of water quality through increased nutrient loads. Water quality is one of the primary issues of importance for Rainbow Springs Aquatic Preserve. To date, the preserve has archived more than eight years of water chemistry data for the river. In partnership with SWFWMD's Surface Water Improvement and Management Program, the aquatic preserve continues to collect water chemistry and clarity data on a bimonthly basis. The aquatic preserve also conducts programs in aquatic ecology for area schools, with attendance from more than 20 teachers and 500 students each year. Since 2002, more than 15,000 people have attended the festival to view over 30 booths and presentations on issues that affect our springs. Staff participate in the Florida SpringsFest to help plan the festival and as an exhibitor. Resource management continues to be one of the most important strategies in maintaining the overall health and success of Rainbow Springs Aquatic Preserve. From an ecological perspective, the aquatic preserve has an abundance of flora communities that provide excellent habitat for Florida's native fauna. Rainbow Springs Aquatic Preserve is an important natural resource for both wildlife and the people of Florida. Wildlife Protection and Habitat Restoration ![]() Preserve staff also have replanted native aquatic vegetation. The aquatic preserve partners with the Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) and Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission to chemically treat and/or manually remove Eurasian water milfoil, hydrilla and water lettuce to control their expansion on the Rainbow River.
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