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Rainbow Springs State Park offers both this weekend, as well as other treats.
By JORGE SANCHEZ
© St. Petersburg Times, published March 2, 2001
DUNNELLON -- Watercolor works from three area clubs will be among the attractions this weekend during "Spring in the Springs" at Rainbow Springs State Park.
At 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturday, an aquatic presentation titled "What's Up Down Under" is scheduled.
Kyle Champion, a hydrologist from Swiftmud, will talk about the Floridan Aquifer, an underground supply of freshwater. He will show a video about subterranean journeys to explore and map the aquifer. Other presenters will talk about studying insects such as mayflies, which are indicator species used for evaluating the health of freshwater rivers.
From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, the Citrus Watercolor Club, the Beverly Hills Watercolor Club and the Ocala Art Club will exhibit members' work in the outdoor pavilions as well as the visitors center.
The park, known for its natural beauty, is in peak form. Hundreds of azaleas are in full bloom, as are numerous dogwoods, redbuds and other flowering plants.
Rainbow Springs State Park also has an excellent swimming area at the springs at the headwaters of the crystal clear Rainbow River. The swim area features a floating dock and full access to most of the headwaters. Rafts and inner tubes are not allowed; the tubelike "spaghetti floats" are. Snorkeling is a favorite activity at the headwaters swim area. Divers must have a dive flag; the park office has dive flags for rent.
There are also numerous nature trails and a waterfall. The park also has a picnic area with grills, pavilions and a snack bar. Admission is $1.
Florida folk music will be performed by Jon Semmes, Ingrid Ellis, Sue Ann Reichelt and Herb Reichelt from noon to 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
To get there, take U.S. 41 N through Dunnellon, and the state park is about 2 miles north of town. From Citrus County, call (352) 489-8503.