Blue-Green Algae Alert for Caloosahatchee River

Avoid contact with water showing visible blooms.

The Florida Department of Health in Lee County (DOHLee) has issued a caution regarding the presence of blue-green algae at Caloosahatchee River—Alacante Canal North. Water samples taken on June 19, prompted this warning. The public is advised to be cautious in and around this area, as blue-green algae have the potential to produce toxins. Water sample testing is currently ongoing, and it’s crucial to remain vigilant, as environmental conditions can change, even if the presence of toxins has not yet been confirmed.

DOH-Lee advises residents and visitors to take the following precautions:

1. Avoid drinking, swimming, or coming into contact with water with visible algae blooms.

2. Wash skin and clothing after any contact with algae or discolored water.

3. Keep pets and livestock away from water with algae blooms and provide alternative water sources for them.

4. Do not cook or clean dishes with water contaminated by algae blooms.

5. It’s safe to eat fillets from healthy fish caught in freshwater lakes experiencing blooms but ensure thorough cooking and proper cleaning.

6. Avoid eating shellfish from waters with algae blooms.

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection and its partners collect algae samples from reported bloom locations. The samples are then analyzed at their laboratory, and the toxin results can be viewed on Protecting Florida Together or on DEP’s Algal Bloom Dashboard.

Blue-green algae are a type of bacteria common in Florida’s freshwater environments. When these algae experience rapid growth, they form blooms, which can lead to discoloration of water, unpleasant odors, and the production of floating mats. These blooms can take the form of scum, foam, or paint on the water’s surface and are influenced by environmental factors such as sunny days, warm water temperatures, still water conditions, and excess nutrients. Algae blooms can be present year-round. ¦

The post Blue-Green Algae Alert for Caloosahatchee River first appeared on Fort Myers Florida Weekly .