Florida's abundant freshwater springs have been a valuable resource for agriculture, providing irrigation and water for livestock. According to the Florida Dept. of Agriculture and Consumer Services, there are more than 47,000 farms and ranches in the state, utilizing 9.7 million acres of land Florida's 1,000+ freshwater springs are scaled and categorized by the average amount of water they discharge, making it easy for farmers to determine which springs are most suitable for irrigation 

However, the pollution of these springs is causing impairment and decline. Groundwater pumping by cities and businesses, excessive recreation, and pollution from nitrates are some of the main causes of this decline. Springs feeding the Santa Fe River in Florida are particularly affected, with reduced flow and toxic levels of nitrate concentration in the water. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) sets a limit for nitrates, but 10 Investigates found that the limits were exceeded at Weeki Wachee Spring and Rum Island Spring.. 

The lack of enforcement of strong laws such as the Springs and Aquifer Protection Act by DEP is attributed as one of the reasons for the pollution. Environmental groups such as the Sierra Club and the Florida Springs Council are challenging DEP on this law. To protect Florida's freshwater resources and ensure their continued use in agriculture, it is essential that stronger laws are enforced, and pollution is reduced.