With more than 600 natural springs, many of which are in danger, the state of Florida has approved a new specialty license plate to raise money for related research and education.

Governor Charlie Crist and the Florida Cabinet approved the new "Protect Florida Springs" license tags. The plates will be Florida's 109th specialty plate.

As sprawl and development reduce the amount of natural areas for springs' recharge, state officials hope to promote awareness and collect funds to address the problem. Fertilizer use, chemicals picked up by storm water and increasing water consumption threaten the quality and existence of the state's natural springs.

Source: ABC Action News--St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Sarasota