A Journey to Explore Knowledge and Obtain Experiences on Springs Protection and Restoration in Florida in 2017
My objective was to gain knowledge and experience from the administrators, researchers, and community leaders in spring protection and restoration in Florida. By staying at Stetson University in Florida from July to September 2017, I visited springs and lagoons, discussed spring protection with community leaders, observed research sites and activities, and read governmental reports related to water quality, flow regulations, and basic management action plan of springs. Hosting University and Institute Established in 1883, Stetson University is the oldest and most prestigious private university in the state of Florida. The main campus of Stetson is located in Deland, Florida, recently cited by CNN and Parade Magazine as one of ‘’best small towns’’ in America. According to the 2017 U.S. News & World Report, Stetson is ranked in the top 5 regional universities in the South. Currently, based on the 2017 Stetson University Area Guide, there are 77 areas of study, 428 total faculty members, 3,084 undergraduate students, and 1,246 graduate students. The purpose of the Institute of Water and Environmental Resilience (IWER) focuses on water and environmental research to create policy options for the conservation of natural resources in Central Florida. Its mission is to promote interdisciplinary learning and research,
