Santa Fe River

North Florida's springs have suffered the consequences of residential and agricultural development for decades, environmental experts say. Recent conditions have prompted spring scientists and preservation groups to raise concerns over the state's water supply and quality.

Students, scientists and area residents helped survey turtle diversity at Hornsby Spring on Sunday as part of the Santa Fe River Turtle Project. Eleven freshwater turtle species mingle in its depths, a level of diversity seen in only a handful of rivers worldwide.

The 28 updated nutrient Basin Management Action Plans target the Santa Fe and Suwannee Rivers, among other waterways.

Jo Carver's involvement in restoring the Santa Fe River started after his cancer diagnosis four years ago. He says kayaking provided tranquility and helped him to recover.

Rising rivers could shut down part of Interstate 75 in north Florida, the Florida Highway Patrol says.The Santa Fe River, which travels under the…