Fighting for Drinkable, Fishable, Swimmable Water
Volunteer Hours and Counting
Since 1995
Explore the Issues
Waterways around the world are under attack by pollution and mismanagement. Southwest Florida is no different.
Calusa Waterkeeper is focused on several local action items as well as state and national policies affecting our waters and quality of life.
We think you’ll agree, these are causes worth fighting for.
Learn the Issues
Recent News
Calusa Waterkeeper sounds the alarm for harmful bacteria in Manuel’s Branch
Fox 4 Meteorologist Andrew Shipley joined Calusa Waterkeeper who has been testing our waterways for Fecal Indicator Bacteria (FIB) for years. One of the places that Calusa Waterkeeper says they are seeing the highest amounts of FIB, is at Manuel’s Branch in Fort Myers.
Gov. DeSantis: Caloosahatchee River reservoir will be ready to divert Lake O water by summer
The Caloosahatchee River reservoir has long been touted as one way to improve the health of the ailing river, which acts as a flood plain at times for Lake Okeechobee. Calusa Waterkeeper Emeritus John Cassani said he was skeptical that the reservoir would be used at its full capacity this summer.
SWFL Water quality expert urges more action from FDEP’s Basin Management Action Plans
Water quality has long been a significant environmental concern in Southwest Florida. Basin Management Action Plans (BMAPs) aim to improve water quality in specific areas, but their effectiveness is still debated.
Paradise Lost? Fate of the Greater Western Everglades hangs in the balance
Our respective organizations stand united in stating our highest level of concern regarding the Kingston development proposed in the Greater Western Everglades.
Save Our Water: Protect our Health, Economy & Future luncheon set for March 27
On Thursday, March 27, 2025, Calusa Waterkeeper is hosting Save Our Water: Protect our Health, Economy & Future luncheon from 11 am to 2 pm at Broadway Palm Dinner Theater. Speakers and panelists will raise awareness about the critical state of our local waters and provide a platform that will arm the community with actionable steps to make a difference.
Mismanagement destroying Florida’s coastal waters
Florida’s coastal waters composed of marshes and tidal estuaries, fed by iconic rivers, represent the very essence of natural Florida. In 2024 the state reported a total water area of 3,668,875 acres statewide for estuary segments identified as impaired for various pollutants.
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