Lee County plans for population growth while protecting environment

From coast to coast, the state is trying to restore the environment and protect its wetlands. And, in Lee County, in addition to those efforts, officials are trying to keep up with the booming population. We looked at Lee County’s eco-conscious approach to continued growth in its portion of Southwest Florida. Along Corkscrew Road in […]

What impact will relaxing of federal water regulations have on SWFL waterways?

Just what impact will the relaxing of some federal water regulations have on the Southwest Florida rivers, streams and wetlands? President Donald Trump announced Thursday the changes originally put into place to stop pollution and development. We’ve seen what can happen to the water here with the toxic blue-green algae outbreaks. Many blame septic tanks […]

University group collaborates with local guides to help educate on coastal systems

Taking the research to where it matters most—our water. One university group is collaborating with local guides to teach people more about our coastal systems. Diving into Florida’s ecosystem, or in this case, paddling. “I get to manage the Great Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail. It’s a 190-mile paddling trail within Lee County,” said Mike Hammond, […]

Sign showing an advisory for blue-green algae. (Credit: WINK News)

Lawmakers analyze Florida septic tanks to prevent nutrient pollution

Taking care of our water means thinking of everything that affects its quality. Right now, state lawmakers are taking a closer look at septic tanks. Despite the unusually cool weather, Pam Johnson and her dog, Red, enjoy Horton Park in Cape Coral. “Thankful to be here instead of Minnesota,” Johnson said. “The water is just […]

FILE: Man scoops blue-green algae out of the water. in May 2019 (Credit: WINK News/FILE)

Study analyzes the impact blue-green algae in SWFL has on your body

Researchers will soon know the impact toxic blue-green algae blooms have on you, coming a year and a half after the algae took over waters in Southwest Florida. A new paper breaks down how researchers will detect toxins in your body using blood, urine and samples from your nose. Regardless of which Florida coast you […]

Frost comes with the cold weather: How it impacts SWFL environment

When cold weather happens, frost happens too — something we don’t see too often in our area. And we see less and less of it every year. However, as temperatures dip Tuesday and Wednesday, we could get some frost, which might rid the area of pesky bug and make our plants healthier. We looked at […]

The management company wants to rid the estates of a bee hive they believe is hidden inside this column. (Credit: Al Young)

North Fort Myers resident concerned over fate of bees in neighborhood

Al Young calls Moody River Estates home. He said he has lived there for about four years. But he is not alone. Young is surrounded by neighbors and his service dog, Ruger. There are also smaller creatures who also moved in: bees. As a retired service member and member of law enforcement, he said his […]

Many mourn after North Fort Myers eaglet E-14 passes away

Flowers for a little bird gone too soon. One heartbreaking picture says it all: Harriet the eagle nuzzling close to her baby’s limp body. E-14 died Wednesday morning. Fans of Southwest Florida’s celebrity eagles flocked to North Fort Myers to offer Harriet best wishes. A tribute is growing just across from Harriet’s nest high up […]

FILE: Water being released from Lake Okeechobee into the Caloosahatchee River on October 29, 2018. (Credit: WINK News/FILE)

SFWMD to increase its monitoring of our water quality in 2020

None of us like the idea of having green gunk in our backyards. Right now, plans are underway for the South Florida Water Management District to increase its monitoring of our water quality. Back in August, WINK News told you about the SFWMD’s plans to expand water quality monitoring. Chauncey Goss, the chairman of the […]

Blue-green algae: What you need to know

If you lived in or visited Southwest Florida in 2018, you may be familiar with the term “blue-green algae.” LINK: Report blue-green algae to the Florida DEP Those who experienced the blue-green algae bloom may recall the sight of green gunk in the water, the smell, or the effect it had on businesses. The bloom […]