Aerial images give researchers closer look at SWFL water quality

Just as our water ebbs and flows, our water quality does too. Aerial photographers were able to capture how much our water can change in a matter of days and weeks. We looked at how that’s turning the tide on tracking the health and look of our water. “A picture’s worth a thousand words,” said […]

WATER QUALITY

Helping improve water quality for Florida and across the country

A water warrior in Charlotte County is helping improve water quality for the state and across the country. Florida’s waterways haven’t simply been the backdrop of Betty Staugler’s work; they’re home for her. “When we have blooms that are these large blooms, they’re very newsworthy, they’re very devastating to the economy, that has forced us […]

Fighting red tide with nature

Red tide is a part of living on the Gulf coast. While it’s clearing up in Southwest Florida, research is underway to lessen its impact in the future. After looking at the history and the issue, Florida TaxWatch found the state should consider reintroducing southern hard clams to Southwest Florida estuaries. “This is just one […]

Scientists are trying to find a way to battle palm tree-killing diseases

Deadly diseases are killing palm trees but scientists are finding a way to fix the issue. Cameron Cole, plant health manager at the Naples Botanical Garden, is one of the people who help keep the plants healthy. “My main concern is usually scouting for diseases and pests throughout the garden and keeping track of new […]

processing toxins

Experiment wants to fight red tide without chemicals

A lab is conducting studies to make fighting red tide without chemicals a reality in Southwest Florida. At Mote Marine Lab in Sarasota County, the goal is to have an entire arsenal of methods to combat harmful algal blooms, including red tide. This is just one tool to make that happen. The trailer parked at […]

Algae thickens in Cape Coral canals, neighbors frustrated

Big mats of green gunky algae sit atop the water in some SE Cape Coral canals, and it’s really starting to bother neighbors who live nearby. In some areas, it’s so thick it looks like you could walk on it. Referring to one area near the Rubicon Canal, which runs north from Bimini Basin, Cathy […]

There are ways to help protect manatees in SWFL

International Manatee Day is a time to focus on important members of our ecosystem in Southwest Florida and how to protect them. Manatee deaths have already passed a record in 2021, and the year isn’t over yet. There are steps that can be taken in the water and on land to help protect manatees. By […]