Originally published on WINK News by Bridgette Bruchalski on August 25, 2025
The Coast Guard is investigating the sheen, which stretches across this section of the river. Experts warn that even a small leak can have lasting effects.
“It stays on the surface until the petroleum might break down enough that its compounds might sink to the bottom,” said Don Duke, a professor at Florida Gulf Coast University. “Over the long term, some toxic effects on bottom-dwelling organisms in the river. The mussels, clams, and worms that live down there.”
Joe Cavanaugh of Calusa Waterkeepers highlighted the unfortunate timing with the sawfish pupping season underway.
“The sawfish pupping season is right now, and it’s basically the peak of the pupping season,” said Cavanaugh. “The pups are in very shallow water, so they would be expected to be impacted by a spill like this.”
Cavanaugh emphasized the ongoing issue with derelict boats and marinas, combined with recent hurricanes, as a looming disaster.
“We’re always several hurricanes behind in vessel removal,” said Cavanaugh. “If we add more vessels from this, whatever storm we might get this season, it just keeps accumulating.”
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