and is in use, though the middle and high school are still joined. Government services The town elects a mayor and four town council members who meet once each month. Water is provided through the city, but all residents utilize a septic tank system for sewerage. Law enforcement is provided by the Columbia County Sheriff's Office who utilize a sub-station within the city limits. Fire protection is provided by the Columbia County Fire Department. Garbage collection is subcontracted to a private company. The Fort White Branch of the Columbia County Public Library system, which was previously located next to town hall, is across from Fort White High School. The county health clinic has a satellite office in Fort White which is open one day each week, but the nearest hospital facility is in Lake City. The Fort White Sports Complex was constructed in 2005 on abutting the high school. Facilities include six baseball fields, two basketball courts and two tennis courts. A community center was built on the site in 2008. A senior citizen meal program operates at the center on weekdays. The Ichetucknee River The locals have always known of and enjoyed the crystal clear Ichetucknee River and springs, located northwest of the town. However, before 1970, the existence and location of this natural wonder were not widely known. The road to the spring was not paved, nor was it marked, because the spring was on private property. In 1970, the state of Florida purchased the Ichetucknee spring and river property from the Loncala Phosphate Corporation. Columbia County built a paved road, number 238, providing easier access to the springs. In 1972, the head spring of the river was declared a National Natural Landmark by the U.S. Department of the Interior. The main tributary from Ichetucknee Springs became one of the most popular tubing destinations in the world, attracting up to 5,000 visitors each day during the summer. Others came to the river to swim, picnic, snorkel, scuba dive, and explore the nearby forests. References Towns in Columbia County, Florida White White Pre-statehood history of Florida Towns in Florida 1836 establishments in Florida Territory Populated places established in 1836