Don’t Feed the Algae

Health Impacts
Toxins produced by algae blooms can cause rashes, stomach cramps, nausea, diarrhea, and respiratory irritation. High exposure to toxins can affect the liver and nervous system. If skin contact occurs, wash off immediately and thoroughly with clean water and soap. Long-term exposure can potentially result in nerve or liver damage.
If citizens spot what looks like bright green paint-like, scum on the surface of the water, they should steer clear. Do not recreate, boat, swim, or fish near an algae bloom.
Not all algae blooms are toxic, but active blooms should be avoided.
St. Johns River Algae Blooms: reported to us by river citizens like you
We have a team of trained volunteers that work with us to test for toxins commonly produced by blue-green algae. Click button below to learn more and become a trained Algae Citizen Science Volunteer.
So, where are all the excess nutrients coming from?
Some of the major sources of nutrient pollution (phosphorous and nitrogen) in the St. Johns River:
- The application of sewage sludge (also known as biosolids) on agricultural lands surrounding our River’s Headwaters at Blue Cypress Lake
- Fertilizer run-off from agricultural, urban, and residential lands
- Septic tanks
- Industrial wastewater discharge and sewage spills
- Aquatic spraying
- Reclaimed water
- Atmospheric deposition
Where can I find the locations of recent algae blooms?
Before you get out on the water, visit the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s website to see an interactive map of algae bloom samples and results in our waterways.
TAKE ACTION
REPORT ALGAE BLOOMS
There is no standard duration for a bloom and no way to determine visually whether a bloom is toxic.
- Report blooms to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection at floridadep.gov/AlgalBloom or call toll free at 1-855-305-3903.
- Email shannon@stjohnsriverkeeper.org with photos, time, date and location.
- To report fish that are either dead or sick, contact the Fish Kill Hotline 1-800-636-0511.
CONTACT YOUR STATE LEGISLATORS
The legislative session is more than half-way done and ends in March 2020, we must continue to advocate today! Let them know that you are disappointed that the Florida Legislature failed to pass legislation to prevent sewage sludge and other nutrient sources from polluting our waterways. Tell them to get the job done next session by stopping pollution at its source. Find your Legislators flsenate.gov/senators/find
CONTACT YOUR LOCAL LEADERS
Tell your Mayor, City Council, or County Commissioners that we need to enact stronger fertilizer ordinances and enforce the ones we have! Let’s lead by example in our parks and homes to stop pollutants from reaching our creeks, lakes, canals, and waterways.
BE RIVER FRIENDLY
Eliminate or reduce your use of fertilizer and reduce your impact on the health of our river. Learn how to live a more River Friendly lifestyle.
EDUCATE yourself and others by attending one of St. Johns Riverkeeper’s educational programs and events.
SPREAD the word! Share what you know with your friends and family and encourage them to be more River Friendly. Follow us on Facebook.