Gov. Jeb Bush and the Florida Cabinet have approved the purchase of 302 acres within the Ichetucknee Trace, which feeds into the world renowed Ichetucknee Springs. Initial plans include restoring the damage and erosion caused by years of limerock mining. In addition to protecting the crystal clear springs, the purchase removes the threat of ground water contamination by further mining. The remaining active mine was set to cease activities in September. The end result of the restoration will be a public park and fishing area.