Southwest Florida nonprofits partner to release new study, highlighting impact of water quality on the economy

This landmark study highlights the inextricable value of our water quality to the future of our region. It quantifies how the increased frequency of harmful algal blooms and events that are harmful to water quality jeopardize our fragile coastal ecosystems and the economy by causing huge losses during recovery between events. We are experiencing a regional emergency that demands urgent action on science-based projects and policies that improve water quality.

James Evans, CEO at Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation

As a fishing guide, I know firsthand how poor water quality and algal blooms affect our local economy. When there are dead fish, dolphins and turtles on the beaches, and you can't breathe, trips to our area get cancelled. Charters get cancelled. And it's not just the fishing guides, everyone from the commercial fisherman to local hotel owners, to realtors and restaurant owners are impacted. There is a significant trickle down effect and our entire economy suffers. If we have political will to push for best practices that improve the quality of our waters, like critical Everglades restoration projects, then these losses can be avoided.

Capt. Daniel Andrews, Executive Director at Captains For Clean Water

Our region's economic and ecological well-being hinges on the health of our water. Yet, while there’s almost universal agreement that our water fuels our economy, our water quality continues to decline. The findings of this report are dire, and must serve as a wake-up call – to the public, to elected officials and to community leaders.  Everyone who loves southwest Florida should be more informed, motivated and mobilized – we cannot afford to wait any longer for meaningful action to clean up and protect our precious water resources.

Rob Moher, President & CEO at Conservancy of Southwest Florida