Water Quality

The FWC's daily sample map Friday showed that within the most recent eight days of sampling, red tide blooms were detected near Punta Gorda Beach, Stump Pass, Little Gasparilla Island, Boca Grande, and Blind Pass.

The Gulf of Mexico Coastal Ocean Observing System's respiratory forecast showed Friday that Nokomis Beach has moderate respiratory irritation risk, and low risk in North Jetty and Venice Beach.

Before Hurricane Ian struck, scientists were monitoring water from the mouth of Tampa Bay near Manatee River, all the way up to Cockroach Bay, on the southeastern shore of Hillsborough County for possible effects of a Piney Point stormwater release.

By analyzing 9 years of data, Florida researchers recently proved that toxic algae blooms are exacerbated by nutrient-rich freshwater releases. The results confirm what scientists, activists, fisherman and others have observed anecdotally for years.

When residents purchase "waterfront properties," many don't realize the function of their nearby stormwater ponds and actually cause them harm by removing plants and mowing the grass too close to the edge.

Generations of advocates and scientists have worked to protect Lake Alice, but no single administrative unit of the flagship university is tasked with caring for its signature water body.

In a region known for its natural water, some families that rely on private wells are living out of bottles and jugs, filtered pitchers and faucets.

Officials say the water has accumulated during the rainy season and is not contaminated, but environmental groups are not convinced the discharge won't impact the health of the bay.

Nitrogen is the main pollutant of concern in Sarasota Bay. High concentrations of nitrogen spur algae growth which leads to declines in water quality.

Mechanical harvesters will be used to collect invasive floating plants and the plants will then be processed and pumped to nearby hayfields to enhance soil.

The study by the Environmental Integrity Project analyzed biennial pollution reports sent by states to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

As red tide continues to plague Florida’s west coast, it also seems to continue expanding north.