Southwest Florida’s rivers, lakes, and coastal waters are under threat from pollution and mismanagement. To protect and restore the Caloosahatchee River, from Lake Okeechobee to the coastal waters. Our Mission As we look back on another year of progress and challenges, we are reminded that our work to protect the waters of Southwest Florida has never been more critical. The water crisis that our region faces is both urgent and complex, and demands an unwavering commitment from all of us. With more than 1,000 square miles of water in our four-county jurisdiction, we are dedicated to ensuring the health of our waters—the lifeblood of our ecosystems, economy, and way of life. From the Everglades to the Gulf, our waters are facing unprecedented threats, including pollution, over-development, and climate change. These threats not only jeopardize the natural beauty and biodiversity that define our piece of paradise but also threaten our local economy, property values, and quality of life. In response to this crisis, we are committed to a comprehensive action plan. Our work in 2025 and beyond will focus on five key pillars: advocacy, education, protection, restoration, and legislation. We will continue to push for stronger water protection policies and regulations; monitor, protect and restore vital ecosystems; educate students and communities; and hold decision-makers accountable to ensure that water quality remains a top priority. We know that real change requires both grassroots efforts and strategic policy action, and we are prepared to take the steps necessary to defend our waters. As we move forward, the support of our community, elected officials, business leaders, members, donors, and volunteers are critical. Together, we can make a lasting impact and ensure that the waters of Southwest Florida remain a vibrant, sustainable resource for generations to come. With your continued support, we will protect what we love and restore what we’ve lost. Thank you for standing with us in this crucial fight for clean water. Sincerely, Captain Codty Pierce, Calusa Waterkeeper Connie Ramos-Williams, Executive Director The Problem Southwest Florida is facing serious water quality issues that negatively impact our ecosystems, wildlife, human health, and economic prosperity. Our water is being polluted with nutrients, wastewater, pathogens, forever chemicals, and other hazards. The rapidly increasing population and development also threaten our water quality and water supplies. If we do not advocate for solutions and better practices today, the task will only grow more difficult for future generations. Red Tide (Karenia brevis) Fecal Bacteria Contamination Blue-green Algae (Cyanobacteria) Lake O Releases & Stormwater Calusa Waterkeeper 2
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