• Under moderate-flow conditions, ground water makes up the majority of the Chipola River's discharge and the quality of water discharged from the Chipola River springs is predominantly determined by the quality of ground water in the Floridan Aquifer.

• Under high-flow conditions, the Chipola River contains more surface water and the ground water component is diluted.

•The ground water contribution zone in Florida for the Chipola River springs is large and encompasses most of the River's surface water basin in Florida. The Chipola River discharge increases greatly as it passes through the springs area.

• Water quality in the Floridan Aquifer and the springs’ discharge is vulnerable to land use activities in the contribution zone. The springs are particularly vulnerable to those activities proximal to them.

• There are at least 63 springs located in the Jackson County and northern Calhoun County portion of the basin. There may be more springs that could be distinguished under lower stage conditions.