Calusa Waterkeeper

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Words from the Waterkeeper, Episode 18

Words from the Waterkeeper, Episode 18

John Cassani addresses the ongoing cyanobacteria in Lake Okeechobee and separate build-ups of nutrients causing Microcystis and Phormidium blooms in Cape Coral freshwater canals. Stay tuned, as we need your help asking Governor DeSantis and FDEP for implementing standards on cyanotoxins.

Fort Myers Construction Sites Under Investigation

Fort Myers Construction Sites Under Investigation

Two construction sites in downtown Fort Myers are facing scrutiny from the state Department of Environmental Protection and local leaders, after photos and complaints about runoff into the Caloosahatchee. John Cassani is a member of Calusa Waterkeeper, one of the groups, who sounded the alarm.

Health Department Alerts Residents About Cyanobacteria in Cape Coral Canals

Health Department Alerts Residents About Cyanobacteria in Cape Coral Canals

Green Cape Coral canals have become as predictable as the summer rains, and this year is no exception. But while stagnant city waterways may be nothing new, the health department speaking up about it is. In the past week the Florida Department of Health in Lee County has sent out three email blasts warning of algae.

Fort Myers Construction Sites Investigated for Caloosahatchee Runoff

Fort Myers Construction Sites Investigated for Caloosahatchee Runoff

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection is investigating new reports of stormwater runoff from the City Walk and Silver Hills projects into the Caloosahatchee River. The DEP came to the site earlier this week and told the groups to make repairs where necessary, and work to prevent further discharges.

Toxic Algae Found in Three Cape Coral Canals

Toxic Algae Found in Three Cape Coral Canals

Community water activists in Cape Coral are concerned about the growing number of algae blooms in the area. Blue-green algae has been found in Makai Canal, Boris Canal, and Highlander Canal. The Lee County Department of Health sent out a warning stating the algae could potentially be toxic.

Fecal Contamination Level is High in Billy’s Creek

Fecal Contamination Level is High in Billy’s Creek

The latest tests from Calusa Waterkeepers shows that contamination levels caused by fecal bacteria in Billy Creek remain high. In June, WINK News joined Calusa Waterkeepers during their testing when they were attempting to trace the source of the fecal bacteria in Billy Creek.

Poison Blooms

Poison Blooms

Florida’s waters are at a tipping point as phosphorus and nitrogen pollution and climate change combine to create a perfect storm for the increasingly frequent outbreaks of toxic blue-green algae and red tides. St. Johns Riverkeeper Lisa Rinaman and Calusa Waterkeeper John Cassani are leading the fight against this growing scourge.

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