"Wakulla Springs, A Watery Treasure"

Illustration of a short nosed bear and saber tooth tiger at the "Shell Station" on the Wakulla River.

OVERVIEW

The film Wakulla Springs, A Watery Treasure, is a 30-minute documentary that uses narration, interviews and a mix of new

and archival materials to give viewers a sense of the areas remarkable history — and its equally interesting present.

Painting by Linda Hall

Critical review:

“It’s one of the most hauntingly beautiful natural places in America. This film does great

justice to Wakulla Springs and its story,” said George Butler, director of “Pumping Iron,”

“The Endurance” and “Roving Mars.”

SPRING AND RIVER BOAT TOURS

For 90 years, boat tours of the spring and river were led by charismatic guides, many of whom grew up in Wakulla County, Fla.

Today, the traditional, yet always unique delivery styles of the guides continue to educate and entertain more than one-million

visitors a year. Each driver has their own style of describing the spring and its many creatures.

ENVIRONMENTAL CHALLENGES

Despite being protected in the Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park, the springs' water and wildlife are being impacted by environmental

threats that originate from beyond its boundaries. These include invasive plant species, increased

nitrate levels and “dark water” that prevents the famous glass bottom boat tours from running for much of the year.

Photo: Bob Thompson

FEATURING INTERVIEWS WITH: Ret. Park Director Sandy Cook, Florida Park Rangers

Don Gavin, Luke Smith, and Bob Thompson, Springs Ambassador Cal Jamison, Woodville Karst

Plain Project Director Casey McKinlay, Hydrogeologist Todd Kincaid and 1940s park employee

Enwood Ashmore. Directed by Bayard Stern. Narrated by Amy Hinson.

Underwater video and special thanks to Casey McKinlay, Todd Kincaid and Jarrod Jablonski of the:

Information: vidbay@gmail.com