DeSantis announces $100 million for 45 water quality, springs and water supply projects

CRYSTAL RIVER, Fla. (WWSB) - Florida will spend $100 million on 45 projects aimed at improving water quality, protecting springs and expanding water supplies, Gov. Ron DeSantis announced Wednesday.“Today in Crystal River, I was proud to announce $100 million for springs restoration and alternative water supply projects throughout Florida,” DeSantis said in a statement.Half of the money, or $50 million, will support 23 projects intended to improve Florida’s springs, according to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.The work includes upgrading wastewater systems, helping homeowners replace or improve septic systems, and expanding sewer service. State officials said those projects are expected to cut nitrogen pollution by more than 55,000 pounds a year.Nitrogen is a nutrient that can harm water quality when too much of it enters waterways.Awards include $3 million for Citrus County to convert some properties from septic systems to sewer service and improve remaining systems.