Roundtable Discussion: Toward a Global Alliance for Spring Conservation.

Authors: Joseph Holway, Chouly Ou, Larry Stevens, Michael Tobler

Year: 2025

Abstract

Springs are biodiversity hotspots that harbor unique assemblages of endemic species, sustain river baseflows, and support surrounding terrestrial ecosystems. They also hold economic, cultural, and spiritual significance for people worldwide. Despite their importance, spring ecosystems face mounting threats from groundwater extraction, land development, invasive species, pollution, and climate change. While numerous local and regional initiatives address spring conservation, a coordinated global effort remains absent. Momentum is growing to change this. Recently, a coalition of conservation NGOs and zoos advanced a motion at the IUCN World Conservation Congress calling for urgent action to safeguard neglected spring ecosystems. Building on this momentum, there is increasing interest in developing a global alliance dedicated to spring conservation—an alliance that could foster collaboration, close knowledge gaps, standardize research approaches, influence policy, and amplify awareness. This roundtable will invite Desert Fishes Council participants to share their experiences, insights, and ideas toward shaping such an initiative. Discussion will focus on identifying critical conservation challenges, exploring strategies for capacity building, and outlining priorities for a coordinated global effort to ensure the persistence of springs and their unique biota.