Experts say public awareness is critical at water quality summit

Experts gathered at a Florida water quality summit to speak about harmful blue-green algal blooms in our waterways regarding health hazards and other dangers the green muck poses in our area.

Scientists who spoke at the Calusa Waterkeeper town hall said public awareness is the most critical aspect for Southwest Florida’s water quality issues Monday.

“We’ve seen algae already this year,” boat captain John Cook said. “We’ve seen algae at the Franklin Lock, at the marina.”

Documentary “Toxic Puzzle” was shown at the summit. It takes a closer look at the science behind possible health risks of toxic algae.

Water experts on the summit’s panel said they hope these events inspire more advocates to help demand the government takes further action against algae

“We’re at this point where were really learning a lot in a short amount of time and there’s still a lot of science to be done.”

Summit addresses the dangers of harmful algal blooms