Tag Archives: Sarasota County

Florida Red Tide as a State of Emergency

Shocking news that the State of Florida has issued a state of emergency for the annual red tide event happening in the southwestern portion of west Florida. What makes this event so unusual? It sounds inaccurate to suggest that this has been going on for 10 months. It’s doubtful that we had a K. brevis prevalence worth noting before the water temperatures got above 85 degrees. According to one news outlet funding will go to Pinellas in addition to affected counties. Pinellas hasn’t had red tide at all this summer, and we were surfing just three days ago without any red tide. With funding in place what type of uses will it go towards? It’s likely that it will be spent on discretionary expenditures, cleanup, things of that nature, when in reality we should be putting the money into prevention. Check out the red tide state of emergency declaration.

Dry Season Water Shortage Order 2017

April and May have historically been the driest months of the year. Because we’ve had such low rainfall, and because we are in such a severe drought, a phase one water shortage order goes into effect for Charlotte, Citrus, DeSoto, Hardee, Hernando, Highlands, Hillsborough, Lake, Levy, Manatee, Marion, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Sarasota and Sumter counties on May 8th. The order is scheduled to last until July 31st. This is a very limited order; however, water restrictions could become more stringent as water becomes more scarce. The order requires that local utilities companies review their conservation measures, and it asks that residents reduce usage and conserve water. Stopping leaky faucets, and limiting lawn watering are ways you can reduce your water usage. Rest assured because there isn’t any reason for concern. An adequate water supply is still available for your water needs.