A Win Against Toxic Discharges

Special News: We’ve Earned a Ruling Against the Army Corps in Federal Court

Fighting for Drinkable, Fishable, Swimmable Water

Since 1995

Calusa Waterkeeper is a non-profit organization dedicated to the protection of the Caloosahatchee River & Estuary in Southwest Florida. This includes Lake Okeechobee & Estero Bay, plus the near-shore waterways of Lee County. We strive to achieve this mission through education and promotion of responsible use and enjoyment by all people.

“

Thank you for all that you’re doing to improve our water quality and to educate us on changes we ourselves can make to help.

“

Vicky C.
Cape Coral

“

I have come to value the work of the Calusa Waterkeeper and its important voice in our community advocating for cleaner water. Keep up with the good work!

“

Stephen B.
Clewiston

“

We appreciate all that you do for our community and water quality. Great Job! Thank you, The Jensens.

“

Jensen’s Marina
Captiva

“

Thank you Calusa Waterkeeper and John Cassani for all you do to educate the public about the water quality crisis we are facing in SWFL.

“

Denny S.
Fort Myers

“

Thanks to CWK for relentlessly using science and public outreach to fight for clean water in SW Florida! We all benefit.

“

Gerri R.
Fort Myers

“

I have learned so much as a volunteer Ranger with Calusa Waterkeeper. Excited to continue!

“

Mark D.
North Fort Myers

“

Happy to renew our membership and keep you on the front lines. Thank you for all you do.

“

Scott & Christine M.
Cape Coral

Explore the Issues

Waterways around the world are under attack by pollution and mismanagement. Southwest Florida is no different.

Calusa Waterkeeper is focused on several local action items as well as regional and national issues affecting our water policy and quality of lives.

We think you’ll agree, these are causes worth fighting for.

Learn the Issues

Recent News

Hazardous Water Leaking from Retention Pond in Manatee County Might Impact Southwest Florida

Apr 4, 2021

Hazardous water began leaking from a retention pond at a former phosphate processing plant in Manatee County. Since then, homes have been evacuated and a stretch of U.S.-41 was shut down in Manatee and Hillsborough Counties. The next question is, could this toxic water be headed to Southwest Florida?

St. James City Boat Club Helping Keep Local Waters Clean

Mar 31, 2021

First Officer Peter Karas of the St. James City Boat Club said about 35 people and roughly 15 boats participated in a clean-up effort around Pine Island. Overall, he said the Boat Club did very well at what they’d intended, including making a substantial donation to Calusa Waterkeeper.

Words from the Waterkeeper, Episode 26

Mar 26, 2021

Our Calusa Waterkeeper discusses Lake Okeechobee water levels, ongoing red tide blooms and cyanobacteria in the Caloosahatchee. Plus, he updates us on the manatee mortality rate, and the newly-released Southwest Florida Water Quality Report.