The Northwest Florida Water Management District has awarded a half-million dollar grant to upgrade a recreation facility.

Located off State Highway 81 in northern Walton County, Morrison Springs is used extensively by divers and swimmers.

Three years-ago, the State Department of Environmental protection bought the property to keep it from being privately developed.

Officials say the new grant dollars will go toward a boardwalk and an improved boat ramp.

In addition, money will be earmarked to control erosion problems plaguing the springs.