Calusa Waterkeeper
In the News
EPA sued by Florida groups over water quality rules in Caloosahatchee
Environmental groups are suing the Environmental Protection Agency, claiming that Florida’s water quality standards are dangerously outdated and that these regulations leave communities exposed to toxic pollutants.
Florida is now up to 20 cases of vibrio vulnificus. See how that compares to recent years
A potentially deadly strain of bacteria is increasingly being reported along the coasts of the Southeastern United States, but the number of infections in Florida seems to be about average for this time of year.
Caloosahatchee River oil sheen raises health concerns
Residents of North Fort Myers are voicing their concerns about a rainbow-colored oily sheen on the Caloosahatchee River, believed to be linked to abandoned boats.
Mysterious film on Caloosahatchee raises concerns in North Fort Myers
An oily sheen appeared on the Caloosahatchee River over the weekend, causing concern among residents in North Fort Myers. Many are worried about a strong diesel smell near the Edison Bridge.
Sheen on Caloosahatchee River raises concerns over marine life
A colorful sheen spotted on the Caloosahatchee River has raised concerns about marine life and water safety in the area. FOX 4’s Bella Line spoke with the Calusa Waterkeeper and a business on the river.
Local brewery creates conservation ale for clean water
Water quality remains a top concern for Calusa Waterkeeper, and this weekend they’re aiming to raise awareness. The environmental organization is teaming up with Swamp Cat Brewery to raise money to help protect local waterways, and they’ve even created their own brew to do it
Lawsuit Filed to Protect Florida Anglers
The Environmental Defense Alliance and Waterkeepers Florida have filed a lawsuit against Lee M. Zeldin, Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), for failing to adopt water quality protections concerning toxic and cancer-causing chemicals in Florida’s waters.
Sea grass monitoring reveals both challenges and hope for Southwest Florida’s vital underwater ecosystems
Throughout the month of July, Calusa Waterkeeper, Heal Our Harbor and the FGCU Water School worked in collaboration to visit 23 sites across Pine Island Sound, Charlotte Harbor and Estero Bay.
Open Enrollment for Ranger Academy Training – Fall 2025
Citizens are invited to become certified Rangers and stewards of our waterways. The academy offers a comprehensive educational program aimed at fostering environmental stewardship and advocacy for clean water.
Tests flag Fort Myers drinking water in November. City tells residents in July
When drinking water tests showed positive for coliform back in November the city missed it, then asked the state to dismiss the results. The state said ‘no way’ and eight months later residents heard.
Rewriting the rules: Of the 269 new state laws, here are the ones you’ll likely notice
Senate Bill 492 represents a major change in the longstanding practice of wetland mitigation, when developers agree to “mitigate” destruction of wetlands by creating or restoring others in the same area.
Finally ready: A giant reservoir opens just over the Lee County line. Will it be enough?
The reservoir aims to store excess water from Lake Okeechobee, and the watershed, reducing harmful discharges into the Caloosahatchee and its estuary. Concerns remain about potential pollution and algae blooms within the reservoir. Experts suggest the reservoir’s capacity is insufficient and advocate for more nature-based solutions.