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Tag: Anna Maria Island water quality

New Year’s resolution: Vote water

New Years Resolution: Vote Water

Written by Rusty Chinnis on . Posted in Environment, Fishing, Outdoors, Reel Time.

I’ve reported frequently about concerns for our coastal waters in Manatee County and beyond. Loss of seagrass, lyngbya blooms, sewage releases, more frequent and stronger hurricanes and hundred-year rain events, months apart.

These insults to Florida’s environment point to the lack of political will to effect the changes that are necessary to preserve our environment and the economy it supports. Until recently, former Manatee County commissioners even voted to let developers build closer to our wetlands.

Now facing an uncertain political future when climate issues are likely to fall farther down on the national agenda, the recent election of pro-environment Republican Manatee County commissioners is a bright spot that highlights an important point. The health of the environment shouldn’t be a partisan issue. Economic realities aside, we all need clean air and water to survive and prosper.

That’s why you’ll find a Vote Water bumper sticker on the front of my car. I vet candidates not by party but by the actions (votes) they’ve taken on issues that affect the quality of the air that I breathe, the water I drink and the fish I pursue. Unfortunately, unscrupulous politicians separate us from the things we all depend on using wedge issues that may matter but pale in comparison.

If you’re looking for a way to source information on candidates and how they’ve voted, and join concerned anglers and voters, check out the “Vote Water” Initiative. The efforts dovetail perfectly with issues that groups like Suncoast Waterkeeper, Captains For Clean Waters and others are seeking to address.

This advocacy is a continuation of Florida Sportsman magazine’s long involvement in protecting Florida’s angler’s interests. Founder Karl Wickstrom and the magazine have been in the forefront in lobbying for common sense rules and regulations.

In Wickstrom’s words, “If you had to pick one reason for the lack of success in protecting our state’s water from continual degradation, it would have to be lack of political will from our elected officials to get something done.”

“What we have in the state of Florida (and the nation as a whole) is a political problem, not a party issue, but when it comes to fixing the state’s water, the political problem requires a political solution. Democracy isn’t a spectator sport. If you truly want to have clean air, clean water and public officials that represent the public interest instead of the special interest, the people that vote need to be informed.”

That’s the same argument I’ve used on these pages pointing out the shared responsibility we as voters have to effect much-needed change.

The VoteWater team highlights politician’s votes but also the amount of money they accepted from special interests. “The Dirty Money part of the Voter Guide is definitely something we want to spend more time on in 2025 and beyond,” VoteWater board member Wil Revehl said. “As the adage says, you have to follow the money. It’s clearly the case in politics.

“In order for people to be represented, to have a true democracy, we need to help make taking money from a special interest, such as the phosphate industry, toxic,” emphasized Revehl.

Once again, those who love Florida’s natural treasures and anglers can thank Florida Sportsman for taking a major role in effecting the change that our elected officials have avoided. I encourage you to learn about and to support the effort by joining the coalition, volunteering, spreading the word, donating to the cause and voting for politicians that have a track record of voting for clean water and healthy fisheries. Don’t be fooled into believing what candidates promise, check their voting record.

What better resolution to adopt this New Year? Vote Water. The future of fishing, Florida’s natural wonders and the economy hang in the balance.

Fall and winter wading

Written by Rusty Chinnis on . Posted in Fishing, Outdoors, Reel Time.

Many anglers think that wade fishing is a warm water activity, but fall and winter wading can produce some fantastic results and gives you many advantages over anglers fishing from a boat. Getting in the water puts you in the fish’s realm, giving you the advantage of a silent approach. This can be particularly important when area waters cool and clear up, making fish especially wary. Wading allows you to keep a low profile and make a stealthier approach.

On clear “blue bird” days when fish are particularly spooky or hard to see, try standing still and waiting for them! When fish see you just before you see them it’s a good time to try this approach. Anchor well away from the area you intend to fish, get out of the boat and stake out a pothole or sandy area where you have the best visibility. By staying a long cast away, you can often see fish when they enter a hole or pass across a white sand bottom. Position yourself off to the side in the grass where you’re less visible, keep a low profile and be still. Just waiting them out gives you a big advantage when targeting reds, trout, snook and other game fish as they wander the flat. When you make a presentation, don’t make any quick moves, and make your casts low and slow. It takes patience but can be very productive.

Fall and winter wading
Anne and Mike McCarthy, of Pennsylvania, with one of the reds they caught in a fantastic two days of fishing with Capt. Tom Stephens in Sarasota Bay last week. – Rusty Chinnis | Sun

When wading, you won’t need heavy tackle unless you’re fishing docks or other structure. Spin and bait casting leaders should have a 30-pound bite tippet. In clear water, you might want to downsize leaders. This will often fool wary trout, but you’ll risk being cut off should you encounter a big snook.

Since the last two hurricanes, local guides are reporting some of the best action they’ve seen in years. Recently Capt. Tom Stephens reported that anglers who fished with him last week in Sarasota Bay had phenomenal success.

“We caught 32 reds, 30 snook, tons of trout all on fly in two days,” he said.

Capt. Justin Moore reports he’s seeing more reds than in many years.

The key to productive and comfortable winter wading as waters cool is to stay warm and dry. A good pair of waders, wading boots, sweatpants (on coldest days) and warm socks will do the trick. Add a pair of polarized glasses, a hat with a dark under-brim, a wade vest or pack, and you’re in business.

When wading in winter or summer, it’s important to make sure you’re not exposing any open cuts or wounds to saltwater. A bacteria called vibrio which is present naturally in area saltwater can cause serious complications and even be fatal. While it’s not often that this happens, it could be exacerbated by water quality issues. According to information from the Florida Department of Health, vibrio vulnificus normally lives in warm seawater and is part of a group of vibrios that are called “halophilic” because they require salt. Vibrio infections are rare, but just recently an angler wading Long Bar in Sarasota Bay contracted the disease, which required an amputation. According to the department web site, “Water and wounds do not mix. Do not enter the water if you have fresh cuts or scrapes.”

Give winter wade fishing a try. It gets you out of the boat and provides some exercise and excellent angling opportunities.

Suncoast Waterkeeper’s Brunch for the Bay

Written by Rusty Chinnis on . Posted in Outdoors, Reel Time.

Brunch for The Bay will feature speakers that will address current threats to our island environment.

Suncoast Waterkeeper is holding its annual brunch for the bay fundraiser at a different venue this year. Get ready for an inspiring and impactful event featuring a powerhouse lineup of expert speakers at the Sarasota Yacht Club! Here’s what you can look forward to on Sunday, Nov. 3 at 11 a.m.

Justin Bloom, Esq. – Founder of Suncoast Waterkeeper and leader of the Sick of Sewage campaign, Justin will reveal how grassroots action has begun to turn the tide on pollution (including their suit against the City of Bradenton) and share critical lessons learned from the 2024 hurricane season.

Dr. Gary Mitchum – Associate Dean of USF’s College of Marine Science, Dr. Mitchum will shine a spotlight on extreme weather events and sea level rise, offering insights on what the Suncoast can expect now and in the future.

Dr. Colin Polsky – Founding Director at FAU’s School of Environmental, Coastal and Ocean Sustainability, will explain how the Florida Wildlife Corridor is a vital model for intentionally designing regional spaces for climate resilience.

Alexis Meschelle – Executive Director of Organized Fishermen of Florida, Alexis will talk about her work to ensure commercial fishermen and women are represented at all levels of government. She will discuss the impact of extreme weather events on Florida fishermen, their livelihood and the fisheries we depend on.

Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with leading voices on climate action, water protection, and environmental resilience. This fundraising brunch will also include delectable food, drinks, and the chance to connect with fellow advocates committed to protecting and preserving the waters of our beloved Suncoast!

Suncoast Waterkeeper’s mission is to ensure the Suncoast has swimmable, drinkable and fishable water for all. Their mission, which has never been more important, is to defend our coastline through advocacy, monitoring, community engagement and legal action.

This is an excellent opportunity to learn about Suncoast Waterkeeper’s work, get involved and help ensure that current and future generations can enjoy a healthy environment. Let’s join forces and fight for our beautiful coastline! If we don’t do it, who will?

Learn about the event and purchase tickets at www.suncoastwaterkeeper.org/brunchforthebay2024.

Water matters

Water matters

Written by Rusty Chinnis on . Posted in Outdoors, Reel Time, Water Quality.

Two years ago, I had the honor of meeting Dr. John Bowden, who was collecting samples in the area for a study of PFAS (forever chemicals) in local waters. Bowden is an associate professor at the University of Florida who works on measuring emerging pollutants in a wide variety of matrices. He was a guest speaker at a Suncoast Waterkeeper fundraising banquet and I volunteered to help him leading up to the event.

Recently, the report, PFAS in Florida Surface Waters, was peer-reviewed and published in Environmental Science and Technology: Water. Bowden also published a paper looking at PFAS in Florida springs.

While Bowden was in the area, he was commissioned to conduct a study of drinking water on Anna Maria Island by Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth and the Holmes Beach Clean Water Committee.

According to Titsworth, “Growing up and living on the water my entire life, I have witnessed a decline in water quality. It is more important than ever for everyone to decrease their impacts on the water.”

To learn more and be part of the solution, go to islanders4cleanwater.com.

Now there’s an opportunity to help Bowden with a new study that should be of importance to all Island residents. Currently, he has a Ph.D. graduate student working on a project to measure emerging pollutants in fish muscle. To date, they have an extensive set of fish samples but are looking to expand the study. They are hoping to connect with anglers and fishing guides to see if they can obtain a small piece of fish muscle harvested when fish are cleaned for their study. They only need about 1-2 grams from each fish.

If you can help, all data will be shared with participants, and you will be anonymous in any publication. If interested, please share an address and they will send tubes that the small muscle plugs can be put into to send back to them. They have a FedEx account for the shipment of the samples.

Their goal is to generate data that will allow them to help determine the safest fish to consume and better fish consumption advisories.

While they are open to receiving samples from all types of fish, these are the fish species they are most keen on getting samples from (species in bold represent ones they have no samples for yet): Mahi, sailfish, snapper, grouper, tuna, amberjack, wahoo, monkfish, tilefish, swordfish, hogfish, flounder, striped mullet, American red snapper, triggerfish, sheepshead, tripletail, barrelfish, kingfish, cobia, grunts and drum, as well as any others that are available. They are interested in some freshwater fish as well, including catfish, bass, etc.

This is a great opportunity for local guides and anglers to help identify the safest species for consumption. For more information and to participate, contact Dr. John Bowden at john.bowden@ufl.edu.

Former Piney Point owner fined for 2021 dumping

Former Piney Point owner fined for 2021 dumping

Written by Leslie Lake on . Posted in Featured, Outdoors, Water Quality.

ST. PETERSBURG – A federal judge has found HRK Holdings LLC liable for the intentional dumping of wastewater from Piney Point into Tampa Bay in 2021.

The discharge from the former phosphate processing facility was linked to a widespread red tide and fish kill. More than 215 million gallons of wastewater were discharged into the bay to avert the potential collapse of a phosphogypsum stack that supported a pond where the waste was stored.

The Sept. 18 ruling in a lawsuit filed by five conservation groups imposed a fine of $846,900.

“As a result of the lawsuit, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection separately agreed to fund independent monitoring of the Piney Point disaster’s ongoing harm to Tampa Bay’s water quality,” according to a press release from one of the plaintiffs, the Center for Biological Diversity.

“The court’s ruling exposes the reckless gamble Florida regulators took by letting this toxic waste facility operate without a permit for more than 20 years,” said Ragan Whitlock, a Florida-based attorney at the Center for Biological Diversity. “This outcome can’t undo the terrible harm done to wildlife and Tampa Bay’s water quality, but it should help state regulators see that trusting corporate polluters to oversee their own toxic waste is asking the fox to guard the henhouse.”

Following the 2021 spill, HRK Holdings declared bankruptcy. U.S. District Judge William Jung issued a default judgment finding that HRK had violated the Clean Water Act by discharging pollutants into Tampa Bay without a lawfully issued permit.

“State and local officials knew for years that HRK lacked the financial and operational resources to safely close Piney Point, yet watched this disaster unfold without intervention,” said Daniel C. Snyder, lead counsel for the plaintiffs and director of Public Justice’s Environmental Enforcement Project.

Following the dumping, Tampa Bay experienced a red tide event that killed more than 600 tons of marine life in Pinellas and Hillsborough counties, according to the press release.

“During the 2021 wastewater release, Tampa Bay received more nitrogen – nearly 200 tons – than it usually receives from all other sources in an entire year. The red tides that have plagued Florida are fueled by nitrogen,” the press release stated.

“It’s the communities that rely on these coastal waters who are left holding the bag, forced to deal with the lasting damage caused by HRK’s negligence,” said Abbey Tyrna, executive director of Suncoast Waterkeeper, one of the plaintiffs. “Suncoast Waterkeeper and our partners have stepped up to enforce the laws that the state should have been upholding all along. There is still so much work to be done to clean up after this disaster, and the responsibility to protect our waters needs to be shared between the state and the community.”

“It should be noted too that presently there are no federal, state or local regulations that adequately protect the public from hazards associated with phosphogypsum, and no regulations to require the industry to make final disposition of phosphate wastes in an environmentally acceptable manner,” said Glenn Compton, chairman of ManaSota-88, one of the plaintiffs.

Other plaintiffs are Tampa Bay Waterkeeper and Our Children’s Earth Foundation, represented by Public Justice’s Environmental Enforcement Project, the Center for Biological Diversity, and the law offices of Charles M. Tebbutt.

Voters speak out for water

Voters speak out for water

Written by Rusty Chinnis on . Posted in Outdoors, Reel Time, Water Quality.

I knew that the citizens of Manatee County cared about water quality and preserving the coastal ecosystem. That was apparent when they voted to tax themselves for the Vote Water and Land Referendum in 2020. The measure passed by over 70% despite the fact that one political party opposed the initiative. As the Bradenton Herald reported at the time, “The measure will have a positive impact on generations of Manatee County families, allowing them to enjoy some of Florida’s most precious landscapes and resources.”

That was cause for celebration, but in the ensuing four years, a political shift caused me to question what I knew to be true. When voters in 2020 elected a slate of commissioners completely aligned with the development community, Manatee County’s path seemed dire in the eyes of this angler.

As I’ve mentioned in prior columns, at a time when we all need to be concerned about water quality and protecting the environment that provides us solace and is the basis of the local community, the government was taking us backward. This was a time when the county commission disregarded the will of the people and their own planning commission and labeled those who cared enough to show up and fight these draconian measures as Communists or radical climate organizers.

During the most recent election cycle, when those politicians backed by massive war chests from special interests looked to solidify their hold on the Manatee County Commission, I admit I was concerned. I worried that those who weren’t paying attention might vote for politicians with the largest and most political posters. That didn’t happen as every current commissioner save one lost to challengers who made water quality and environment a part of their platform. The lone commissioner who kept his seat was challenged by a current commissioner whose popularity was so low he changed districts to try and defeat the only voice of reason on the current board.

Now that we will have a majority on the commission who understands the value of water and natural resources come Jan. 1, maybe there’s an opening. Perhaps there’s the possibility of getting the development community on board to help address this elephant in the room.

Sewage discharge continues

Sewage discharge continues

Written by Joe Hendricks on . Posted in Featured, Outdoors, Water Quality.

BRADENTON – The Suncoast Waterkeeper organization continues to monitor ongoing sewage discharges and spills that have taken place in Bradenton since Tropical Storm Debby passed through the area in early August.

During and after the storm, the city of Bradenton’s water reclamation facility (WRF) discharged an estimated 25 million gallons of raw and partially treated sewage into the Manatee River. During that same period, the city of Sarasota discharged nearly 18 million gallons of raw and partially treated sewage into Sarasota Bay.

On Aug. 27, the city of Bradenton reported the ongoing discharge of partially treated wastewater into the Manatee River at the water reclamation facility outfall.

On Aug. 30, Suncoast Waterkeeper posted on Facebook a Manatee River advisory that says, “The city of Bradenton Water Reclamation Facility has reported an ongoing bypass of sewage into the Manatee River. At this time, the city has not disclosed the total estimated amount of discharge.

Sewage discharge continues
Suncoast Waterkeeper issued this no swim advisory on Aug. 29. – Suncoast Waterkeeper | Submitted

“Suncoast Waterkeeper is issuing a No Swim advisory until further notice. The discharge of sewage can cause health risks due to high bacteria counts and potential pathogens. We will be adding DeSoto Memorial Park, located on the Manatee River, to its weekly water quality testing sites. Please stay out of the waters and stay tuned for updates as we continue to monitor this situation,” the advisory says.

The advisory includes a link to the city of Bradenton’s reportable events webpage that as of Aug. 31 included a dozen sewage-related incidents between Aug. 4-27. See the reports at https://cityofbradenton.com/reportableevents.

On Aug. 29, Suncoast Waterkeeper posted on Facebook its latest water quality test report that identified 11 “Don’t Swim” zones in Manatee and Sarasota counties, including the Bridge Street Pier in Bradenton Beach, the Longboat Key boat ramp and Robinson Preserve in west Bradenton.

According to that Facebook post, “On August 28th, the enterococci (fecal bacteria) survey was conducted during an outgoing tide. The sample at Palma Sola was taken shortly before the horses rode by. The city of Bradenton continues to discharge sewage into the Manatee River, which was occurring while the samples were collected. There was a considerable level of decomposing seagrass at the Longboat Key Boat Ramp.”

Sewage discharge continues
This graphic indicates 11 “don’t swim” areas in Manatee and Sarasota. – Suncoast Waterkeeper | Submitted

That post also included a link to information posted at the Suncoast Waterkeeper website regarding a 2022 lawsuit in which the organization prevailed over the city of Bradenton in a water quality case.

Regarding problems addressed by the 2022 lawsuit, the website says, “For the past five years, the city of Bradenton had illegally bypassed at least 160 million gallons of wastewater away from full treatment before discharging it into the Manatee River. Also, during that timeframe, the city discharged millions more gallons of reclaimed and raw sewage from its aging sewage system, which is plagued by structural deficiencies. The historic lack of investment in our infrastructure harms the health of our communities and waterways.”

Regarding the “win” that resulted from the lawsuit, the Suncoast Waterkeeper website says, “The city of Bradenton has committed to performing $220,000 in oyster restoration in the Manatee River as part of its Supplemental Environmental Project, along with making much-needed upgrades to its wastewater and sewage treatment system. The settlement includes firm deadlines for improvements to the sewage treatment plant, addressing issues in the collection system, an update to capacity management programs and a website providing public information on water quality.”

REPORTABLE EVENTS

In addition to the initial 25 million gallon wastewater discharge, the city of Bradenton’s reportable events include four more sewage-related events dated Aug. 5 and attributed to Hurricane Debby’s impact and heavy rains.

• A hydraulic overload of Lift Station #6 which exceeded the lift station capacity. The manhole at 414 29th St. N.W. overflowed.

• A hydraulic overload of Lift Station #11 that exceeded the lift station capacity. The manhole at 620 11th Ave. E. overflowed.

• A hydraulic overload of Lift Station #21 exceeded the lift station capacity and the manholes at 2709 22nd Ave. W. overflowed.

• A hydraulic overload of Lift Station #18 overrunning the lift station capacity. The manhole at 23rd Street/Eighth Avenue East overflowed until the pumps were able to manage the flows.

The Aug. 14 reportable event references a force main break at Second Avenue and 24th Street East during which more than 1,000 gallons of wastewater and raw sewage spilled onto the roadway, sidewalk and storm drain in that residential area.

The Aug. 23 reportable event pertains to an estimated discharge of more than 1,000 gallons at Lift Station #14, at 1901 17th Ave. W. The report attributes the discharge to a malfunction and power failure.

“The Vac (vacuum) truck was used to wash down and sanitize the area. None of the discharge was recovered into the Vac truck,” according to the Aug. 23 report that also mentions sewage “released into Wares Creek.”

The Aug. 26 reported incident notes that the city of Bradenton’s water reclamation facility violated the state’s allowed discharge limits between Aug. 4-12.

Sewage discharge continues
The city of Bradenton water reclamation facility could not handle the rains associated with Tropical Storm Debby. – Joe Hendricks | Sun

“During the hurricane, the aerators were shut off to try to not overflow the clarifiers. The WRF is still in recovery,” that report says. “This hurricane was a 100-year storm event. An estimated 2.5 billion gallons of rain fell across the city sewer system. An estimated 1.2 billion gallons entered the WRF. The facility is rated to process 9 million gallons/day.”

Regarding preventative action being taken, the report says, “New clarifier currently being built to help process additional volume; however, this would not have helped in this extreme event.”

FDOH TESTING

According to the Florida Department of Health, water quality samples collected on Aug. 26 were listed as “good” at Bayfront Park in Anna Maria, Manatee Beach in Holmes Beach, Coquina Beach and Cortez Beach in Bradenton Beach, the Broadway Beach Access in Longboat Key and the Palma Sola South causeway in west Bradenton.

New weather reality threatens local waters

Written by Rusty Chinnis on . Posted in Outdoors.

Reel Time was conceived as a fishing column, a way to spread information on a passion that you and I as anglers and environmentalists share. I include environmentalists because with time, you begin to understand that protecting the resource is protecting the quality of the fishing we love. We all take up rod and reel in the hopes of catching fish, but for most anglers, just being “out there” is a big part of the experience. That experience has evolved for me, as reflected in this column’s emphasis on advocacy.

Now another threat has arrived in the form of huge sewage and wastewater releases occasioned by storms that bring rainfall amounts that easily overwhelm the failing infrastructure. While these have been referred to as 100-year storm events, the reality is they are increasing all over the world as temperatures rise. Case in point, the two “unprecedented” rain events that occurred in the last month. Then-Tropical Storm Debby alone resulted in 25 million gallons of wastewater and sewage being released into the Manatee River.

New weather reality threatens local waters
Raw sewage bubbles from a manhole on its way to the Manatee River during the passing of then-Tropical Storm Debby. – Submitted | Alex Conyers

Suncoast Waterkeeper Executive Director Abbey Tyrna was right on target when she made the following statement, “Florida’s wastewater technology is alarmingly unprepared for the increasingly frequent extreme weather events. The recent tropical storm with torrential rainfall is not an isolated incident; we’ve seen the devastating aftermath of Hurricanes Ian and Idalia, which led to massive amounts of sewage entering our surface waters. The pressing question is: how are state and local governments preparing wastewater infrastructure for the next extreme weather event? The state should collaborate with local governments to elevate infrastructure, create additional storage, ensure adequate backup power at lift stations, innovate filtration technology and reduce inflow and infiltration. Regrettably, these necessary actions are not being taken. Instead, the state is drafting rules that will place this outdated industry in charge of our drinking water supply. For more details, refer to the FDEP rulemaking site here and our comment letter here.

“Florida’s history of prohibiting references to climate change has set us back decades. We remain unprepared and will continue to be until we have leaders who prioritize resiliency on the Suncoast and throughout Florida. How many more storms must we endure before meaningful action is taken? We need leaders who have the vision to comprehend what needs to be done to protect our waters and can marshal the forces to make the changes.”

Tyrna is right on target and this need for leaders with vision circles right back to you and me, the voters. Unless and until we vet our candidates, and demand action and accountability, we’ll see the continued loss of the resources that enrich our lives and are the foundation of our economy. Vote water.

Piney Point 2024

Piney Point withstands Debby

Written by Leslie Lake on . Posted in Featured, Outdoors, Water Quality.

PALMETTO – Severe weather associated with then-Tropical Storm Debby passed over the Piney Point site on Aug. 4-5, producing high winds and more than 9 inches of rain, according to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP), which says the rainfall was well within the plant’s storage capacity of 90 inches.

The Piney Point property is the site of a former phosphate processing plant closed for several years. Wastewater holding ponds were built on the crest of phosphogypsum stacks at the site, less than two miles from Tampa Bay and near two state aquatic preserves.

In April 2021, a breach in the outer wall of one of the retention ponds resulted in approximately 215 million gallons of water containing high levels of nitrogen and phosphate being intentionally discharged into nearby waters to avoid flooding nearby homes and businesses. The discharge worsened a bloom of the toxic algae red tide that lasted six months, causing fish kills and respiratory irritation.

Afterwards, a 3,300-foot-deep well was built near Piney Point at 3105 Buckeye Road to permanently store the wastewater being drained from the stacks, a process still in progress.

In an Aug. 9 FDEP status update, it was reported that:

• The site has received 9.55 inches of rain so far this month, including approximately 9.5 inches from Hurricane Debby. Piney Point has received approximately 44.49 inches of rain since Jan. 1.

• The storage capacity for additional rainfall at the site is over 90 inches. This capacity is expected to change with rainfall amounts and adjusted water management activities at the site.

• Approximately 160.2 million gallons are currently held within the NGS-South compartment. Pond level readings are expected to fluctuate due to a host of factors, including wind/associated waves in the pond, rainfall and water management activities.

“FDEP has been in contact with the court-appointed receiver and confirmed there is no identified damage to the compartment systems and there are no other water management concerns,” according to the Aug. 9 update. “FDEP is working closely with the court-appointed receiver to continue site evaluations and manage water levels. A full site inspection is underway to assess any post-storm impacts.”

In July, FDEP reported that final closure procedures for Piney Point are moving forward.

“Forgen LLC, the project contractor, has completed the liner installation on top of the OGS-South compartment and is now working with court-appointed receiver Herb Donica to complete the final details for closure, including placing soil cover and grass over the area so that it will no longer accumulate rainwater,” according to the July update.

Residents can find the latest information on the status of the site, response activities and water quality at ProtectingFloridaTogether.gov/PineyPointUpdate.

Restoration efforts go big

Restoration efforts go big

Written by Rusty Chinnis on . Posted in Outdoors, Reel Time.

On July 14, I had the pleasure of working with Damon Moore from Oyster River Ecology (ORE) and a film crew from the Ringling College digital filmmaking program to document and install 1,050 vertical oyster garden anchors (VOGAs) on ORE’s restoration aquaculture lease site known as the Eileen Reef in the upper Manatee River. This 10-acre site is the beginning of an effort to bring bivalve restoration to a scale that can noticeably clean local waters. The following is the schedule that Moore set up for the day’s effort.

• 7 a.m. – ORE boat only; tow VOGAs on work floats over to Eileen Reef from Colony Cove staging area (staged the day before).

• 8:30 a.m. – Make final go or no go call on the weather. (The weather was perfect!)

• 9:30 a.m. – Everyone:

– Arrive at Fort Hamer Boat Ramp;

– Confirm participants have signed waivers;

– Safety meeting/questions/etc.

• 10 a.m. – All boats depart Fort Hamer Boat Ramp for Eileen Reef

• 10:30 a.m.

– Arrive at Eileen Reef and anchor boats at the staked-out area.

– Provide task instructions

• 11 a.m. – Work as a team to install 1,050 VOGAs within the marked area.

• 12:30 p.m. – Complete installation and enjoy snacks/drinks/lunch. Please bring your own.

• 1 p.m. – Depart Eileen Reef for Fort Hamer Boat Ramp. ORE boat to return work floats and empty bins to Colony Cove staging area then return to Fort Hamer Boat Ramp.

• 1:30 p.m. – Arrive at Fort Hamer Boat Ramp and group dismiss.

• 3-4 p.m. – Damon to retrieve the cargo trailer and floats from the Colony Cove staging area.

Vessels used in the project included ORE’s 18.4 coastal skiff, which was used to tow the work floats with VOGAs to the site, the Suncoast Waterkeeper (SCWK) patrol boat with board members Rob Brown and Orion Morton, which carried the camera crew, their equipment and several volunteers, and Mike Elswick, who brought a boat with SCUBAnauts volunteers.

The planting was a huge success, and everyone was impressed with the speed with which volunteers worked.

Piney Point stormwater to be discharged into Tampa Bay

Settlement reached in Piney Point litigation

Written by Leslie Lake on . Posted in Featured, Outdoors, Water Quality.

PALMETTO – Prompted by a 2021 lawsuit by multiple conservation groups, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) has agreed to allow more oversight of discharges from the Piney Point phosphate facility.

The settlement agreement also establishes enforceable limits on pollution discharged into Tampa Bay and provides for taxpayer funding to monitor Piney Point’s impacts on Tampa Bay’s water quality.

“The Piney Point phosphogypsum stack is a mountainous heap of toxic waste topped by an impoundment of hundreds of millions of gallons of process wastewater, stormwater and tons of dredged spoil from Port Manatee,” according to a press release from the plaintiffs, The Center for Biological Diversity, Tampa Bay Waterkeeper, Suncoast Waterkeeper, ManaSota-88 and Our Children’s Earth Foundation.

Three years ago, after discovering a leak in the facility’s reservoir liner, regulators ordered the discharge of 215 million gallons of wastewater from the gypsum stack into Tampa Bay to avert a collapse and flooding.

“During the 2021 wastewater release, Tampa Bay received more nitrogen – nearly 200 tons – than it usually receives from all other sources in an entire year. The red tides that have plagued Florida are fueled by nitrogen,” according to the press release. “Following the release, Tampa Bay experienced a deadly red tide that killed more than 600 tons of marine life in Pinellas and Hillsborough counties.”

After the spill, the owner of the site, HRK Holdings LLC, filed bankruptcy and proceedings began to permanently remove the wastewater from the facility and close it. Treated wastewater from the site is currently being pumped into a deep well in eastern Manatee County.

The conservation groups requested that U.S. District Court Judge William Jung hold HRK responsible for violating the Clean Water Act by discharging pollutants into Tampa Bay without a lawfully issued permit.

“The settlement establishes a new standard of transparency for the water quality exiting the plant, a crucial step in safeguarding the well-being of our community,” Suncoast Waterkeeper Executive Director Dr. Abbey Tyrna said. “Additionally, it imposes critical restrictions on key pollutants, ensuring a more sustainable and healthier future for our bay.”

“The Piney Point disaster shook the Tampa Bay community to its core. It wasn’t too long ago that shorelines once teeming with life were littered with all kinds of dead fish for months. If you had previously found it swimming in Tampa Bay, it was likely dead after Piney Point,” said Justin Tramble, executive director of Tampa Bay Waterkeeper. “This brings some closure to the past and shifts the focus to making sure mechanisms are in place to prevent even more tragedy in the future.”

The wastewater discharged in 2021 into Tampa Bay continues to spread throughout the estuary and into Sarasota Bay, according to the press release.

“The gyp stacks at Piney Point represent the true legacy the phosphate industry will leave behind in Florida – perpetual spending of taxpayer monies and risks to the public’s health and the environment,” said Glenn Compton, chairman of ManaSota-88 Inc. “There is no economically feasible or environmentally sound way to close an abandoned phosphogypsum stack.”

“A strong, enforceable Clean Water Act permit for Tampa Bay’s most problematic polluter is long overdue,” said Ragan Whitlock, a Florida-based attorney at the Center for Biological Diversity. “It shouldn’t have taken a disastrous pollution event and legal action to prompt our state regulators to do their job, but we’re hopeful this permit is a step toward eliminating the looming threat this site has posed for decades.”

Resilience Incubator launches

Written by Rusty Chinnis on . Posted in Outdoors, Reel Time.

On June 27, I had the pleasure of attending the ribbon-cutting ceremony in Sarasota for the new offices of Suncoast Waterkeeper and 10 other leading non-profit organizations that are joining forces as a resilience incubator to ramp up their efforts to bring services to Sarasota and Manatee County. Representatives from the various organizations were joined by numerous elected officials to officially launch the partnership and offer tours of the brand-new collaboration and facility.

“This partnership marks a turning point for the Sarasota region. By working together as the Resilience Incubator, we can address our community’s most urgent needs more effectively than ever before,” Executive Director of Rebuilding Together Tampa Bay Joe Garcia said. “This is more than just a collaboration, it’s a commitment to a brighter, healthier and more resilient future for everyone in Sarasota.”

“We are thrilled to be part of this innovative effort. Together, as the Resilience Incubator, we can have a greater impact on ensuring clean and safe water for all, while enhancing our ability to protect this vital resource for future generations,” added Abbey Tyrna, executive director of Suncoast Waterkeeper.

Amber Whittle, executive director of Southface Sarasota, added, “We are excited that our dream to partner with these change-making organizations to create a more resilient community has become a reality. By coming together, we generate more awareness of climate resilience for our community and can make a real impact for the people of Sarasota and surrounding communities.”

“By combining our strengths under the Resilience Incubator, we can collaborate and utilize resources in the most effective way possible benefiting the well-being of our community members,” said Matt Sauer, of the Charles and Margery Barancik Foundation.

Scott Bush, CEO of Suncoast Blood Centers and landlord for the building, remarked, “I am excited to see this space utilized in this unique and unprecedented way.”

Resilience Incubator launches
Dr. Abbey Tyrna, executive director of Suncoast Waterkeeper, addresses attendees at the ribbon-cutting ceremony. – Rusty Chinnis | Sun

The collaboration represents an enormous effort to address Sarasota’s most pressing needs with efficiency and impact. By uniting their resources and expertise, these organizations can better tackle critical issues head-on and create lasting positive change in the community. The new unified approach will focus on:

• Protecting Our Waters: Strengthening our efforts to protect and preserve our local waters for the benefit of all while safeguarding these vital resources for future generations.

• Sustainability: Promoting eco-friendly practices and initiatives to create a more environmentally responsible community.

• Hurricane Preparedness and Resilience: Enhancing our readiness and response to natural disasters, ensuring the safety and well-being of our community members.

• Education and Youth Development: Providing robust educational programs and opportunities for youth to thrive and succeed.

• Affordable Housing: Addressing housing challenges by creating accessible and affordable living options.

• Mental Health Services: Expanding access to crucial mental health resources and support, promoting overall well-being.

The following organizations will be housed in the Resilience Incubator located at 1760 Mound St. in Sarasota: Community Harvest SRQ, Elizabeth Moore/Suncoast Stargazers, Florida Veterans for Common Sense Fund Inc., Minorities in Shark Sciences, Rebuilding Together Tampa Bay, The Recycling Partnership, Sarasota Bay Watch, Southface, Southeast Sustainability Directors Network, Suncoast Waterkeeper and Sunshine Community Compost.

Having been involved in advocacy since the 1980s, I’ve been aware of the many local nonprofits and their good works and wondered how their impact could be enhanced if there was an opportunity to join forces to effect the changes necessary to assure a sustainable environment and community for future generations. This is exactly what the Resilience Incubator has been designed to do. Join in at www.suncoastwaterkeeper.org.

Vote water

Vote water

Written by Rusty Chinnis on . Posted in Outdoors, Reel Time.

Readers of this column are well aware of the critical state of our coastal waters in Manatee County and beyond. The Dapis (lyngbya) blooms that have persisted from 2020 to this year have brought the issue front and center as the harmful algae bloom choked waters and fouled the air and seagrass beds from the Manatee River to Palma Sola Bay and beyond.

I’ve mentioned in recent columns that these insults to Florida’s environment point to the lack of political will to effect the changes that are necessary to preserve our environment and the economy it supports. The recent move by the Manatee County Commission (Commissioner George Kruse being the lone dissenter) to allow developers to build closer to wetlands at a time when we should be doing just the opposite defies reason. At a state Waterkeeper weekly Zoom meeting a couple of years ago, Florida Sportsman Editor Blair Wickstrom addressed their most recent efforts to elicit support for their Vote Water Initiative. The efforts dovetail perfectly with what groups like Waterkeeper are seeking to address. This advocacy is a continuation of the magazine’s long involvement in protecting Florida anglers’ interests. Florida Sportsman Founder Karl Wickstrom and the magazine have been on the front lines continually lobbying for common sense rules and regulations.

Their plan resonated with me immediately, so I reached out to Wickstrom to hear more about Vote Water’s goals. He responded quickly with a passionate and well-reasoned argument. “If you had to pick one reason for the lack of success in protecting our state’s water from continual degradation, it would have to be lack of political will from our elected officials to get something done,” said Wickstrom, vice president of Vote Water.

“What we have in the state of Florida (and Manatee County) is a political problem, not a party issue, but when it comes to fixing the state’s water, the political problem requires a political solution,” Vote Water President Ray Judah emphasized. “Democracy isn’t a spectator sport. If you truly want to have clean air, clean water and public officials that represent the public interest instead of the special interest, the people that vote need to be informed.”

That’s the same argument I’ve used on these pages, pointing out the shared responsibility we as voters have to effect much-needed change.

The Vote Water initiative highlights not only politicians’ votes but also the amount of money they accepted from special interests. That “dirty money” is a part of the Voter Guide that the organization wants to spend more time on going forward. As the adage says, you have to follow the money. It’s clearly the case in politics.

“In order for people to be represented, to have a true democracy, we need to help make taking money from a special interest, such as the phosphate industry, toxic,” emphasizes the organization.

Don’t be fooled into believing what candidates promise, especially as the election approaches. If you care about our coastal resources don’t vote Democrat or Republican. Check the candidates’ voting records on the water we drink and that the fish we pursue swim in. If we don’t, we may well be voting against our self-interest. The future of fishing in Florida and the economy hangs in the balance. VOTE WATER!

Salon fundraiser meets with success

 Reel Time: Salon fundraiser meets with success

Written by Rusty Chinnis on . Posted in Outdoors, Reel Time.

Salon (noun) – a conversational gathering of notables held at the home of a prominent person.

On Saturday afternoon, Suncoast Waterkeeper held its Suncoast Salon fundraiser at the Sarasota home of Anna Maria residents Bill and Debbie Partridge. The event was a sellout and attracted some of the area’s most ardent protectors of the Sarasota Bay watershed, including the event sponsors, Beachside Management, The Mikki and Walter Frank Family Charitable Fund, Manatee Community Foundation, Whistanfox LLC and the Gulf Coast Community Foundation. The event was held on the lawn behind the oldest home on Sarasota Bay and was greeted with fabulous weather, a full moon and a beautiful sunset. Tents were placed on the lawn and themed with the organization’s work to protect the Sarasota Bay watershed. The event was catered by Harry’s Continental Kitchen and a wonderful evening of music was provided by The Hedges. The Salon aimed to spark intrigue, excitement and increase commitment to the area’s natural resources. This invite-only event created a unique opportunity for clean water supporters to engage on important local issues and speak to local leaders.

The mission at Suncoast Waterkeeper (SCWK) is to protect and restore the waters on the Florida Suncoast for the benefit of all through community and stakeholder engagement, environmental monitoring, advocacy and responsible legal action. Our goal is clean water for all.

SCWK has curtailed sewage spills, stopped industrial pollution, informed the public about the safety of recreational waters and tackled one of the largest local environmental disasters of our time – Piney Point. Since 2019, the organization’s members have settled eight Clean Water Act citizen suits; five acted against municipalities illegally spilling over 1 trillion gallons of sewage and three aimed to stop industrial facilities from illegally discharging heavy metal-laden stormwater. Combined, the suits contributed more than $500,000 for environmental projects and hundreds of millions of dollars to improve infrastructure.

The salon proved a wonderful opportunity for like-minded protectors of Sarasota and Manatee waters to get together for an evening of discussion, food, music and camaraderie on Sarasota Bay. It also raised funds for the organization to continue its efforts to protect the area’s eco-system and economy. To help with the mission, join the organization, volunteer and donate at www.suncoastwaterkeeper.org.

Suncoast Waterkeeper’s vision expands

Reel Time: Suncoast Waterkeeper’s vision expands

Written by Rusty Chinnis on . Posted in Outdoors, Reel Time.

Suncoast Waterkeeper (SCWK) has seen phenomenal growth over the last several years. In that time, they have hired an accomplished wetlands scientist as executive director, hired a marketing and communication specialist, acquired a Waterkeeper boat, and launched their Mangrove Rangers and Eyes on The Suncoast initiatives, which encourage and provide resources for citizens to report illegal mangrove trimming, pollution, fish kills and algae blooms. The organization is being funded by various local charities and foundations.

Dr. Abbey Tyrna, an experienced educator and scientist, joined Suncoast Waterkeeper in 2022. She grew up in Cape Coral and focused her education on learning about wetlands and protecting Florida waters. Tyrna has a doctorate in geography from Pennsylvania State University, where her research focused on measuring the effects of development on wetlands. Before joining SCWK, she worked with the Sarasota County government and the University of Florida to help bring scientific knowledge and expertise to the public as the water resources agent for UF/IFAS Extension and Sustainability. Before receiving her doctorate in 2015, Tyrna earned a master’s in environmental science from LSU in 2008, concentrating on wetland science and management, and a bachelor’s in environmental studies from Florida State University in 2001. SCWK has tackled many significant pollution problems, which have curtailed over 1 trillion gallons of polluted water from entering our bays and driven hundreds of millions of dollars in infrastructure investments. Not resting on her laurels, Tyrna, working with Communications Specialist Samantha Wassmer, is seeking to expand investments in SCWK operations to take on the water quality threats prevalent across our bays and waterways.

To do this, SCWK will launch a new campaign, Love Your Bays Consciously, to recruit, manage and train volunteers in Manatee and Sarasota counties with the goal of proactively and reactively tackling the ever-growing threats to clean water. Through the campaign, SCWK will seek partnerships with bayfront communities, marinas, boat storage facilities, Realtors and local businesses. There are three actions necessary for joining Love Your Bays Consciously – protect aquatic habitats, reduce pollution and help your community.

From this effort, they expect:

• Increased adoption of clean water behaviors – success would entail a noticeable increase in the number of waterfront homes, boaters and marinas actively posting information about clean water behaviors and implementing these best practices. This could be documented through surveys, interviews or direct observation of adopted behaviors;

• Growth in engagement – the success of the Love Your Bay Consciously campaign would be evident through an increase in the number of volunteers actively engaging with residents and visitors to promote clean water behaviors. This could be measured by tracking volunteer participation rates, the number of individuals reached through outreach efforts and feedback collected from those engaged;

• Effective pollution monitoring and reporting – the project’s success would also be reflected in the effectiveness of the special team of ambassadors trained to spot, monitor and report pollution incidents. This could be documented through the number of pollution events reported, the timeliness of reporting and the responsiveness of relevant agencies to address reported incidents; and

• Progress towards environmental goals – ultimately, the success of the project would contribute to progress towards the overarching goal of achieving fishable, swimmable and drinkable waters for all. This could be assessed by monitoring water quality indicators over time, tracking improvements in the health of aquatic ecosystems and gathering feedback from community members on their perceptions of water quality.

To be a part of these exciting programs, consider donating during this year’s 2024 Giving Challenge taking place April 9-10. Matched donations will allow SCWK to expand its outreach efforts and increase the number of community members adopting best practices. This increased funding will also enable the organization to tackle complex challenges with greater resources and effectiveness, ultimately leading to a healthier and more sustainable environment for generations to come. Consider joining Suncoast Waterkeeper at www.suncoastwaterkeeper.org/membership.