In Cape Coral, Sights Set On Cyanobacteria | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Lifestyle

In Cape Coral, Sights Set On Cyanobacteria

Blue-green algae creeps down the coast, concerning Florida residents.

10
In Cape Coral, Sights Set On Cyanobacteria
John Moran/EarthJustice

Living in South Florida, being out on the water is a way of life-- it's the most popular reason most people migrate to the crazy state. It's a water sports mecca. From canoeing to sailing to snorkeling, Florida is best known for its multitude of "fun in the sun" opportunities, but that may soon change.

When someone mentions algae, you tend to think of your cousins old fish tank or something you vaguely remember learning about in seventh grade biology class. The word "toxic" doesn't generally come to mind. Though, in Florida, the thought of algae has become synonymous with terrifying health risks and environmental disaster.

Cyanobacteria, or blue-green algae, are a type of algae typically found naturally within small lakes and estuaries. That's all fine and dandy. The problem arises when changes occur in the environment. Manipulation of factors such as light, temperature and existing nutrients can result in an algal blooms.

Algal blooms have recently brought their proverbial hens home to roost. This green sludge has been steadily working through our waterways for quite some time, killing wildlife in Lake Apopka, Lake Okeechobee and the Saint Johns River. Now, it seems that even our little Cape Coral community is having its own run-in.

In late July, the Cape Coral Yacht Club was closed briefly following a cyanobacteria scare. Although the beach has been reopened for swimming, some are still apprehensive. With health risks ranging from an irritating rash to neurological problems, and even death, it's not hard to imagine why residents might take extra precautions.

One would hope that a substance with those kinds of ramifications would be easy to spot. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. Generally, cyanobacteria is identified by its grotesque odor and vivid paint-like coloring.

However, these are not always present. To ensure proper water quality, it is important to test for toxins whenever possible. If you find yourself in the unsavory situation of dealing with this toxic substance first-hand, there are a few things you should do.

First and foremost, avoid all contact with the water. Exposure can occur through direct contact, accidental ingestion or even inhaling water spray. Additionally, It is advised to keep all pets and small children away from the area as they are usually the most at risk in these situations.

To report an algal bloom, call the the Florida Department of Health in Lee County at their toll-free number, 1-855-305-3903, or visit www.reportalgalblooms.com and follow the instructions.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
one tree hill
Wikipedia Commons

If you need a new series to watch, I recommend One Tree Hill. I watched this series three times now and it only keeps getting better. If you need any more reasons beside the fact that all of the seasons are on Netflix for your binge-watching pleasure, here are seven more reasons to watch it.

Keep Reading...Show less
University of Mount Olive
University of Mount Olive

College is the most exciting time of a person's life. It really is. Exciting is not always a positive feeling though. Excited is a feeling that can be associated with nervousness, anxiety and more. Here are some real tips for college freshman that go beyond the typical, "Go to class," lecture.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

The 5 Pros and Cons Of Long Distance Friendships

Being friends with someone thousands of miles away has its drawbacks and perks.

957
friends on the beach

True friendship is incredibly rare, and to find a friend that will be there for you through all of life's curveballs is something quite unique. To add distance into the equation, maintaining a real, true friendship can be a struggle. There are good and bad parts that come with long distance friendship.

Keep Reading...Show less
high school girls
Tori Horne

Friendship. It's defined as the state of being attached to another person by feelings of affection or personal regard, but what really is friendship? Is it that occasional hallway talk with that one person who always manages to cheer you up? Is it that relationship you have with someone where they can be gone for a long period of time, but when they come back, it's like they never left? Is it spending every waking hour with someone, and knowing every detail about their life? Is it the relationship that's filled with fighting, but filled with even more resolution? I've learned that it's all of these things, and every friendship is different. It's a beautifully dysfunctional mess that should always be cherished and never be taken for granted.

Keep Reading...Show less
cousins
Bailey Totten

I've known you your entire life. More than likely I held you in the first three days of it and at least one of us cried. Cousins are truly one of the best things in the world and while sometimes I complain about how many people crowd Grandma's living room on Christmas Eve, I wouldn't trade you all anything.

You are my best friends, the only people who can understand what it's like on Thanksgiving, and you are the spunkiest people I have ever met. But you as so so young, most of you are just now starting your adventures in the public education system. I mean, I'm so very young too. I'm not married, I don't have children, heck, I just started my adult life, but I do want to give you what little advice I have. My dears, these are the things I want you to know.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments