Calusa Waterkeeper
In the News
Cheers to our Water Warrior, John Cassani
John Cassani shaped and defined the role of Calusa Waterkeeper, creating an outsized role for a private citizen in a nonprofit agency aimed at protecting and saving the water from the demands of roughly a million people, and sometimes protecting those people from the water.
Calusa Waterkeeper to Retire After Decades Defending Clean SWFL Water
Calusa Waterkeeper John Cassani, a man who has dedicated himself to the preservation of Southwest Florida’s waterways, plans to retire soon. Few people have been more passionate about protecting our waterways, making it his decadeslong mission to defend our right to drinkable, fishable, and swimmable waters.
Cape Coral Residents Bothered by Strange Smell Stemming from Hundreds of Dead Fish in Canals
Hundreds of dead fish have been spotted in Cape Coral canals and residents are not sure why this has been happening. John Cassani, who recently retired as the Calusa Waterkeeper, suggests decomposing organic debris as a possible cause.
Water Quality Experts Talk Swimming & Exposure to Bacteria
Hurricane Ian and a red tide bloom combined to create dangerous conditions in coastal waters in Lee and Collier counties this year, and some water quality experts say they still would avoid swimming at many local beaches.
ECCL has New Date for Public Forum on Water Quality & Environment Issues
The Estero Council of Community Leaders (ECCL) is holding a town-hall style Public Forum on Greater Estero Water Quality and Environment Actions and Solutions at The Water School at FGCU on Wednesday, Jan. 25, starting at 6 p.m.
Once a Concern, the Refurbished Herbert Hoover Dike Fared Well During Hurricanes Ian & Nicole
There was a time when the federal agency that manages Lake Okeechobee levels was concerned that a major hurricane or even a large tropical storm could cause lake waters to rise to the point that the dike surrounding the big lake would fail.
Let’s Defend our Water!
On this Giving Tuesday, and through the remainder of 2022, I invite you to join me in becoming a Monthly Defender, supporting our critical water and air testing program. If water is vital for all forms of life and the centerpiece of existence, let’s defend it!
Giving Thanks to our Generous Donors & Followers
We thank You for being a part of the Calusa Waterkeeper family, following our accomplishments and investing in our work. Your generous giving allows us to continue our prioritized water and air testing, especially now as dangerous Red Tide appears off the coast in many areas of SW Florida.
Our Thanks To You
At this time of year, when we reflect on our many blessings, we can’t help but think of you, our loyal supporters who have given so much to Calusa Waterkeeper.
Red Tide Continues to Make its way through Southwest Florida Waterways
Red tide continues to make its way across southwest Florida waterways. Some areas are not feeling the full effect, though many beaches are seeing some traces of the bloom. “It’s pretty dynamic where it’s at,” said John Cassani with Calusa Waterkeeper.
Red Tide Blooms Appearing Along the Southwest Florida Coast
Red tide is appearing up and down the Southwest Florida coastline, so Lee and Collier counties have both issued health alerts for the blooms. They say to stay away from the water, especially if you have breathing issues, and don’t try to remove the dead fish yourself.
Red Tide Update: State Report Shows Toxic Algae Levels from Sarasota South to Marco Island
Scientists are saying a red tide bloom that’s lingered along the coast for a few weeks is now being fed by nutrients running off the landscape in the wake of Hurricane Ian. Red tide (Karenia brevis) is a naturally occurring organism in the Gulf of Mexico that sometimes blooms to toxic levels.