Springs Stewardship

Improving springs stewardship requires careful assessment, planning, implementation, and monitoring, all of which are best when based on scientific information. Our approach acknowledges that many springs are under active human management, which is necessary for human well-being and is often fully intentional. While we recognize and respect the ecosystem services provided by springs, we believe they can be managed more sustainably to support both ecological function human use.

In general, if the aquifer that feeds the spring is not degraded, ecological function and ecosystem services are not mutually exclusive. We have seen many successful examples of stewardship balancing ecological and human needs, however, we have also encountered springs that have been destroyed by poor management practices and neglect. Sustainable management of springs should be the primary goal of stewardship.

The good news is that springs can often be rehabilitated or restored to an ecologically sustainable condition. The process is relatively easy and can be accomplished through minor changes in management.

Management Process

SSI's Springs Inventory Protocol and Springs Ecological Assessment Protocol were designed to facilitate improved management practices. With these tools and conscientious planning, springs ecosystems can be monitored, restored, and sustainably managed.