Florida Gov. Rick Scott Declares Emergency in 7 Counties Over Red Tide

A lengthy red tide algae bloom near seven southwestern Florida counties that's killed thousands of marine animals, has led to Gov. Rick Scott to declare a state of emergency for the area.

"As Southwest Florida and the Tampa Bay area continues to feel the devastating impacts of red tide, we will continue taking an aggressive approach by using all available resources to help our local communities. 

"Today, I am issuing an emergency declaration to provide significant funding and resources to the communities experiencing red tide, so we can combat its terrible impacts," Scott said in a news release. "This includes making additional FWC (Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission) biologists and scientists available to assist in clean-up and animal rescue efforts."

The state of emergency covers seven counties near southwestern Florida and includes cities like Tampa, Bradenton, Fort Meyers, and Naples. 

Red tide in Florida kills thousands of marine animals

Scott is also ordering an additional $100,000 be directed for additional scientists to assist with clean-up efforts and another $500,000 has been earmarked to help local communities and businesses who have been struggling with lost income as tourism in the area falls. 

Another $900,000 in grants have been issued to help Lee County with their clean-up efforts. 

The red tide algae bloom is made up of fast-growing colonies of the algae, Karenia brevis, an organism that often turns the water red when present. Red tide blooms usually begin off the Florida in October and end in the winter, but this one has lasted for an incredible nine months and has been devastating to local marine life. 

When the algae dies, it releases toxins that can be deadly to fish and marine mammals in high concentrations. Fish, sea turtles, manatees and a whale shark have all been killed by the deadly bloom, littering several of Florida's beaches with carcasses according to TampaBay.com. 

The algae blooms can also cause respiratory irritation in humans and can even illness if people eat shellfish loaded with the toxins. 

Scientists with NASA say last year's hurricanes may have moved helped to move nutrients normally found inland into coastal waters, which help the algae grow. 

red tide algae bloom kills marine life in Florida

Photos: Getty Images


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