United States
£ GBP
A rare collection of photographs that are the heart of The Springs of Florida was obtained over a period of many years. They are the result of hundreds of hours underwater, during both day and night, and in all seasons of the year. The many realms of fresh water that most often surround us are dark rivers, clouded ponds and the opaque depths of inland lakes. We cannot see into them or fathom the incessant activities of life that occur throughout their depths. The many springs that jewel the landscape of Florida are ornate exceptions to an environment often veiled in obscurity. They are translucent openings to a dominion very rare: a crystalline and vibrant world of flowing fresh water that rises from the earth and reaches to the sea.
Now in its fourth edition, The Springs of Florida brings updated research and discussion to readers interested not only in the ecosystem and environment, but also in preserving the springs and the creatures that reside there. Doug Stamm, a prominent voice in the Florida springs community and professional diver/underwater photographer, aims to increase awareness about springs conservation as well as bring new updates to light in his text. With a combination of legacy and new photos throughout the book, readers will see first-hand how beautiful the springs are and learn why conservation efforts are needed now more than ever.
Doug Stamm, aquatic biologist/diver, and national award-winning author and underwater photographer has ventured camera in hand to the depths of lakes and oceans around the world, joined Jacques Cousteau's dive team beneath winter ice in the Mississippi River, and travelled to remote rain forests of the Amazon’s headwaters in search of new aquatic species. His photographs have illustrated many natural history articles and books. As a diver/biologist at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Stamm wrote and photographed his first book, Underwater: The Northern Lakes, the first book of its kind featuring underwater freshwater photography. The Springs of Florida is the result of Stamm's most ambitious effort, an ongoing 30-year project to photograph and reveal the underwater world of America's most fascinating freshwater environment – the springs of Florida. He lives with his wife Lucy in Naples, Florida, and together they are regular visitors to the springs.
Reviews of previous editions:
"The perfect gift for those of us who want to learn about and admire peculiar creatures like the Hogchoker sole and the Tadpole madtom in brilliant color photographs in the privacy of our home rather than by swimming about in dark watery caves highly hostile to human visitation. It would be a good present for real cave divers, too, or even top swimmers who want to know where the good springs are and what's in them."
– Tallahassee Democrat
"A delight to those who have seen these marvels for themselves, and to those who never will."
– Florida Wildlife
"A perceptive and beautifully illustrated treatment of Florida's most spectacular natural asset."
– Dr. Archie Carr, University of Florida
