Staff Reports
Gov. Rick Scott on Friday said he directed state agencies “to mobilize all available resources to address red tide impacts in Southwest Florida’s coastal communities.”
The announcement mentioned the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP).
Red tide is a “naturally occurring algae that has been documented along Florida’s Gulf Coast since the 1840s and occurs nearly every year.”
“FWC and DEP will enhance cleanup efforts, public awareness initiatives and water testing to ensure that Floridians understand the best ways to minimize the impact of red tide,” a press release added.
“FWC will deploy additional scientists to assist local efforts to save animals affected by the naturally occurring red tide. The agencies will also meet with local officials and update the public on what steps are being taken to mitigate red tide.
“During my time in office, we have invested millions of dollars to research and mitigate red tide along Florida’s Gulf Coast,” Scott said in a statement.
“With this year’s red tide being more substantial than previous years, we must do everything we can to help minimize its harm to our water and wildlife. We will continue to support Florida’s biologists to study the best ways to combat red tide, and our state wildlife and environmental professionals will aid Florida communities that are being impacted.”
For more information about the status of naturally occurring red tide, go here. To report a fish kill, contact the FWC Fish Kill Hotline at (800) 636-0511.
