Marion County’s water bodies are home to very cool animals like playful otters, gentle manatees, & ferocious alligators.
 
But did you know about the millions of tiny creatures that also call water home? One group of these little critters is called macroinvertebrates. 
 
These creepy crawlies are amazing indicators of water pollution. When only super-strong, super-tolerant macros (like damselflies, dragonflies, & scuds) are found during water testing, scientists become seriously concerned.
 
Pollution is unhealthy to most living things. Clean, healthy water will be home to all sorts of macros & that’s the type of environment scientists want to see. A diverse body of water is a healthy body of water!

Marion County is home to three first-magnitude springs:

• Silver Springs
• Rainbow Springs
• Silver Glen

Begin your exploration at FloridaSprings.org.

Consider your local parks like Carney Island or KP Hole. Explore all Marion County has to offer through parks & recreation. Learn more at marionfl.org/Parks.