Calusa Waterkeeper
In the News
Florida Lawmakers Advance Fight Against Blue-Green Algae
The one-two punch of HAB’s in 2018 startled environmentalists and underscored the urgency now propelling efforts in Florida’s Capitol to act against algal blooms in lakes and coastal waters. Now, a package of proposals is wending its way through legislative committees that attempt to better control pollutant-laden runoff that nourish the blue-green algae.
Billy’s Creek Enterococci Sampling Results, January 2020
Poor results at every station on Billy’s Creek this month. Extremely high contamination at the Ortiz and Ortiz Circle stations as is almost always the case. Thanks to retired engineers and CWK Rangers Chris and Ed Shinouskis for their help collecting and analyzing samples.
Lawmakers to Consider Algae Task Force Recommendations this Session
Lawmakers are pushing several bills this session that have regulatory implications as the state tries to rid its waters of blue-green algae and similar pollution. The recommendations came from the Blue-Green Algae Task Force, a group of five scientists who meet regularly to discuss water issues like pollution, toxic algae blooms and septic tanks.
Our Most Valuable Waters are Under Siege
FDEP declared Estero Bay impaired for nutrient pollution in 2019. The shock effect of hearing that water quality is in crisis does not seem to have the same impact after recent massive algal blooms and red tide until you realize that many of the Florida waters impaired are iconic waters of national significance that, ironically, are subject to the most regulatory protection.
Blue-Green Algae Returns to Fort Myers Shores
John Cassani said to see algae in the middle of the dry season is unusual. ”When it’s calm and the wind starts blowing, those tend to stick together,” Cassani said. “Then they produce polysaccharide that enables them to kind of glue together and forms those mats.” Cassani is talking about big green chunks seen in canals in 2018.
Health Department will Post Warning Signs for Blue-Green Algae Spotted in Calossahatchee
Just in time for the height of tourist season, patchy slicks of blue-green algae are showing up in the Caloosahatchee, including at one of the river’s popular access points, the Davis Boat Ramp. Although users launching boats and watercraft at the ramp saw no warning signs about the potential dangers of contact cyanobacteria.
Vice President Mike Pence Visits Sanibel Island during Ice Cream Flavor Debut
As news of Vice President Mike Pence’s visit to Southwest Florida solidifies, Sanibel’s Best Homemade Ice Cream is set to debut an all-new flavor colored in “Bright Azure”, developed my Captain’s for Clean Water co-founder, Chris Wittman to support their organization’s efforts in 2020.
Citizen Engagement Is Key to Protecting Our Environment In 2020
For all of us in Southwest Florida, the past few years have certainly amplified the importance of citizens gathering together to shape our future in a better way, especially in regard to our water crisis and the challenges of growth in our region.
Billy’s Creek Enterococci Sampling Results, December 2019
Calusa Waterkeeper sampling results for enterococci bacteria at Billy’s Creek in Ft. Myers on 12-15-19. Serious contamination persists. The dredging this year did not mitigate the bacterial contamination.
Environmentalists take First Round in Scrap Over Cape Coral Boat Lock
A state administrative law judge has recommended that the FDEP reverse its decision and deny Cape Coral a permit needed to remove the Chiquita Lock. The lock is a barrier between the city’s canal system and the Caloosahatchee River and its fragile water resources.
State Judge Recommends Chiquita Lock Remain in Cape Coral
The decision on the Chiquita Lock has been the topic of controversy for months. Boaters have complained about the wait times at the lock. Getting in and out of this spot can get busy, especially during season. But a state judge’s 50-page recommendation says the wait is worth it.
Caloosahatchee River and Estuaries Facing New Type of Algae Bloom
Scientists are studying a newer type of algae bloom that’s been popping up in the river for the first time in years: it’s called Akashiwo Sanguinea. After Calusa Waterkeeper volunteers tested water samples, they said dumping and sewage aren’t causing the discoloration.