UPDATE 5/6:
The Florida Department of Health in Lee County (DOH) has lifted a Health Alert at the Caloosahatchee-Franklin Locks based on water sampling results from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). DEP conducted sampling in the area and did not detect microcystin toxins.
The Florida Department of Health in Lee County (DOH) is issuing a health alert for the Caloosahatchee-Franklin Locks based on reports of algae toxins found by the locks. When blue-green algae is visible, DOH recommends individuals avoid contact with the water.
Blue-green algae can cause gastrointestinal effects if swallowed. Children and pets are especially vulnerable, so keeping them away from the water during a bloom is especially important.
Additional information on blue-green algae is available here. If you wish to report a new algae bloom please visit DEP’s Algal Bloom Monitoring & Response webpage.
DEP, the five water management districts, DOH, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services all work together to respond to algal blooms. DEP has been closely monitoring and testing algal blooms and will continue to respond to any new reports.
DEP will continue to post updates for Caloosahatchee-Franklin Locks on their website.
