June 24, 2019 Updates
Algae update for Lower Manatee River, Perico Bayou and Perico Preserve
There is still no indication of red tide in local waters. However, blue-green algae and brown algae has become pervasive in the Lower Manatee River, Perico Bayou and Perico Preserve, resulting in a modest fish kill, primarily mullet, as a result of heavy algae bloom concentrations. We are working with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection to determine the cause, and FDEP has indicated they will be collecting more samples this week in this vicinity. Additional updates will be made available as more information is received from FDEP.
Florida DEP has been regularly monitoring local water conditions by taking samples and having them analyzed, then posting results to DEP’s Algal Bloom website. The site is a valuable resource to check recent water quality conditions around the area, and it offers information on various algal blooms in Florida. To help expedite that process, Manatee County Environmental Protection staff has agreed to assist Florida DEP by collecting and providing local water samples to DEP’s district office in Tampa.
Manatee County Environmental Protection (EP) has confirmed the presence of some cyano-type algae in isolated areas of the Manatee River. The EP team notes that this kind of algal bloom is typical during the late spring in early summer, when temperatures warm and steady rain follows a prolonged dry period. Over time, the algae breaks down and disappears.
Some — not all — algae can produce toxins that can contribute to environmental problems and affect public health. Residents and visitors may report a suspected bloom at www.reportalgalbloom.com, as well as through a new toll-free number at 1 (855) 305-3903.
Red tide update (local)
Throughout the year Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources does a morning “sweep” of our public beaches, clearing small clumps of grass and seaweed that wash ashore each night. Our Property Management teams will continue their daily effort to keep our public beaches, parks and preserves clean and clear from trash and debris.
In the unfortunate event that a bloom is more widespread and impacts residential areas, County leaders will discuss resuming the Nets to Neighbors program that provides cleanup resources and additional waste hauling to neighborhoods that are directly impacted. The county also stands ready to expand that effort when and if the Board provides that direction.
Note: Red tide is a naturally occurring microscopic alga that's been documented along Florida’s Gulf Coast since the 1840s. It occurs nearly every year. Blooms, or higher-than-normal concentrations
For daily beach conditions, go to visitbeaches.org and select a beach on the map. View local beach cameras.