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Springs may be small in size, but they are among the most extraordinary and irreplaceable freshwater ecosystems on Earth. Often hidden and overlooked, these habitats support a remarkable diversity of life – endemics, shaped by many thousands of years of isolation. Beyond their biodiversity value, springs are vital for people. They help maintain water quality, sustain river flows, support livelihoods, and hold deep cultural significance for communities around the world.
Yet despite their importance, springs are disappearing at an alarming rate. Groundwater over-extraction, pollution, habitat degradation, invasive species, and climate change are placing immense pressure on these fragile systems. Because they are often remote, small, or poorly studied, springs have long been neglected in global conservation efforts.
That is beginning to change.
In October 2025, at the IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025, the global conservation community took a significant step forward. Motion 016, Springs under Threat – Mobilising Urgent Action for Neglected Freshwater Systems, was formally adopted, calling for coordinated global action to protect springs and subterranean ecosystems. Developed by the IUCN Species Survival Commission Freshwater Conservation Committee, the motion has helped bring long-overdue attention to springs and created new momentum for action.
Since its adoption, SHOAL and partners, including the IUCN Species Survival Commission Freshwater Conservation Committee, Re:wild, the Springs Stewardship Institute, and the University of Missouri–St. Louis in collaboration with the Saint Louis Zoo, have been working to translate this global commitment into tangible action on the ground.
A key early step has been raising awareness and building a shared understanding of the importance of springs. This month, SHOAL launches a new webinar series focused on springs conservation. The Season on Springs brings together scientists, practitioners, and policy experts from around the world to share knowledge, experiences, and practical solutions. These conversations are helping to connect a growing global community working to protect these ecosystems.
At the same time, we are laying the groundwork for longer-term collaboration. Efforts are underway to establish an IUCN Springs Task Force and to catalyse a Global Springs Alliance – two complementary initiatives designed to strengthen coordination, improve knowledge exchange, mobilise resources and elevate springs within global biodiversity and water policy frameworks. Together, these platforms aim to ensure that springs are no longer overlooked but recognised as critical components of healthy freshwater biodiversity.
This is just the beginning. There is still much to learn about springs, and even more to do to protect them. But with the momentum generated by Motion 016 and the growing network of partners committed to this work, there is a real opportunity to drive meaningful change.
Springs may be small, but their importance is immense. Protecting them means safeguarding clean water, resilient ecosystems, and unique biodiversity for future generations.
If you are interested in getting involved in springs conservation or learning more, please feel free to reach out at cou@rewild.org.
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