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Tag: Anna Maria Island

Red tides, lost summers

Written by SUN contributor on . Posted in Editorial, Opinion.

By Katie Tripp, Ph.D.

Director of Science & Conservation, Save the Manatee Club

Martin County, located along Florida’s southeast coast, adopted the term “Lost Summer” in 2013 to describe the disaster caused by discharges from Lake Okeechobee into coastal communities. Posted signs warned against swimming, fishing or otherwise coming in contact with the water that was covered in guacamole-thick algae. The moniker was unfortunately applicable again in 2016 and now again in 2018.

On Florida’s west coast, red tide has killed nearly 1,100 manatees over the last 23 years, and because blooms now occur so frequently, they are no longer characterized as unusual mortality events for these protected marine mammals. The organism that causes red tide is naturally-occurring. The input of human-generated pollution into our coastal waters, which causes that organism to bloom and wreak havoc, is far from natural. The same is true for the various algae blooms that have occurred in the Indian River Lagoon in recent years, resulting in the deaths of manatees, dolphins, fish, and seabirds and the loss of tens of thousands of acres of vitally-important seagrass.

Florida’s waters are in crisis, and we need leaders who will protect our natural environment. Too many of our decision-makers and residents continue to be in denial about our state’s long-running addiction to growth at any cost and the toll it takes on our environment. Politicians have won election and re-election by campaigning on lower taxes and reduced oversight, but they have neglected the need to protect and invest in our natural environment. Too often, voters make decisions without having properly researched candidates, or they fail to vote at all. Until more citizens engage in their democracy and vote with the future in mind, Floridians can expect continued lost summers and lost opportunities to fix our ailing waterways.

Dr. Tripp has been Save the Manatee Club’s Director of Science and Conservation since May of 2008. She received her Ph.D. in Veterinary Medical Sciences from the University of Florida, where she conducted research on manatee physiology.

‘We’re still open’

Written by Tom Vaught on . Posted in Business.

ANNA MARIA – The beach behind the Sandbar restaurant was busier Sunday evening than it has been since the recent outbreak of red tide, with more than 160 people turning out for a dinner on the sand, courtesy of a group of local restaurants whose message is, “We’re still open.”

The red tide has hit Anna Maria Island businesses hard, from food service to vacation rental accommodations, as vacationers and mainlanders avoided the smell and sight of dead, rotting sea life and irritation from the single-cell organism known as Kerenia brevis.

The weather cooperated Sunday as the diners moved from the reception inside the Sandbar to the tables that sat near the shore. There was a storm in the distance, but the air was fresh, the beach was clean, and the Gulf waters were clear.

At the reception, Anna Maria Oyster Bar owner John Horne praised the attendees.

“This is a great crowd, and our message to diners is, ‘We’re still here, we’re still open.’”

JoAnne Tressley, of Bradenton, wasn’t sure she could attend.

“I have asthma, but we came out early and it didn’t annoy me,” she said.

Realtor Darcie Duncan said the real estate business is really slow.

“I’m the chair of the Manatee County Chamber of Commerce, and I want to run a series of public service announcements to promote business on the Island,” she said.

Ashley Chiles, daughter of Sandbar owner Ed Chiles, praised the local businesses that helped put on the dinner.

“It’s another example of businesses coming together for the good of the community,” she said.

Proceeds from the dinner and an auction will go toward Mote Marine and Solutions to Avoid Red Tide (START).

Red tide FAQs

Written by Sun staff on . Posted in Outdoors, Red tide.

What is red tide?

A red tide is a higher-than-normal concentration of a microscopic alga (plantlike organism). In the Gulf of Mexico, it is Karenia brevis, often abbreviated as K. brevis. At high concentrations, the organisms may discolor the water, sometimes red, light or dark green, brown or the water may appear clear.

What causes red tide?

A red tide bloom develops when biology (the organisms), chemistry (natural or man-made nutrients for growth) and physics (tides, winds, currents) work to produce the algal bloom. No one factor causes the development of a red tide bloom.

Where can I check the status of red tide at my local beach?

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Red Tide Current Status:

https://myfwc.com/REDTIDESTATUS and Mote Marine Laboratory: https://visitbeaches.org/

Are red tides new?

No. Red tides were documented in the Gulf of Mexico as far back as the 1700s and along Florida’s Gulf Coast since the 1840s. While red tides and other algal blooms occur worldwide, K. brevis is found almost exclusively in the Gulf of Mexico but has been found on the east coast of Florida and off the coast of North Carolina.

How long does a red tide last?

Red tide blooms can last days, weeks or months and can also change daily due to wind conditions and ocean currents.

Is it safe to swim in water affected by red tide?

While people swim in red tide, some individuals may experience skin irritation and burning eyes. If your skin is easily irritated, avoid red tide water. If you experience irritation, get out of the ocean and thoroughly wash off with fresh water.

Can red tide affect me when I am not on the beach?

People in coastal areas near the shoreline may experience varying degrees of eye, nose, and throat irritation. When a person leaves an area with red tide, symptoms usually go away. If symptoms persist, please seek medical attention.

Are there people who are more sensitive to the toxins caused by red tide?

People with respiratory problems (like asthma, emphysema or bronchitis) should avoid red tide areas, especially when winds are blowing on shore. If you go to the beach and have one of these conditions, you should be very cautious. If you have symptoms, leave the beach and seek air conditioning (A/C). If symptoms persist, seek medical attention.

What can I do to lessen the effects of red tide?

People usually get relief from respiratory symptoms by being in air-conditioned spaces. This is also true when driving: keep your car windows up and the A/C or heat on. For people without asthma or any other chronic respiratory problems, over-the-counter antihistamines may relieve symptoms. People with chronic lung ailments should be especially vigilant about taking prescribed medications daily. Always seek medical care if your symptoms worsen.

Can red tide affect pets?

Just like people, pets may be affected by red tide. If you live close to the beach, consider bringing outdoor pets inside during a bloom to prevent respiratory irritation. If you are at the beach with your pets, do not allow them to play with dead fish or foam that may accumulate on the beach during or after a red tide. If your pet swims in the red tide, wash it off with fresh water as soon as possible.

Is seafood in the area safe to eat?

Clams and oysters (mollusks) can contain red tide toxins that cause neurotoxic shellfish poisoning. Check local harvesting status before collecting at FreshFromFlorida.com. Finfish caught live and healthy can be eaten if filleted and rinsed thoroughly. The edible meat of crabs, shrimp, and lobsters (shellfish) can be eaten (do not eat the tomalley—the green digestive gland—of shellfish). Do not eat distressed or animals found dead under any circumstances.

Source: Florida Department of Health

Businesses team up for Turtle Watch Wednesday

Written by Joe Hendricks on . Posted in Anna Maria Island, Community News.

HOLMES BEACH – As part of their ongoing efforts to offset the economic challenges created by red tide, A Paradise Realty and Vacation Rentals and Hurricane Hank’s are partnering in their efforts to bring locals and visitors out to Anna Maria Island.

A Paradise Realty and Hurricane Hank’s will host a Turtle Watch Wednesday fundraiser from 4 to 6 p.m. on Wednesday, September 5. The fundraiser will benefit the Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch & Shorebird Monitoring organization.

“Red tide has severely affected our beloved sea life and people who rely on the tourism industry for their livelihood,” says a press release issued jointly by the two Island businesses.

“We’ve had some bookings that have canceled, but we’re keeping positive by doing these kinds of events. If people aren’t coming to the Island it affects the other businesses and their staff members too, but we can pull together and support one another as businesses on the Island. We support and encourage that and we know others are doing the same,” said A Paradise Marketing Director Sharon Hoatland.

The first 75 guests to arrive at the Turtle Watch Wednesday event will be greeted by a member of the A Paradise Realty team who will hand them a ticket for a complimentary drink. Hurricane Hank’s will offer a 50 percent discount on appetizers. For every food item and drink sold, Hurricane Hank’s will donate $1 to the Turtle Watch organization. The fundraiser efforts will include raffles.

Hurricane Hank’s is located at 5346 Gulf Dr. in Holmes Beach. For more information, call A Paradise Realty at 941-729-2381 or Hurricane Hank’s at 941-778-5788. Or visit VistaAParadise.com or HurricaneHanks.com.

Turtle Watch

On Monday, Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch & Shorebird Monitoring Executive Director Suzi Fox discussed the impact red tide is having on the Island’s turtle and bird populations.

“Red tide has certainly compromised the adults and the juvenile sea turtles because we’re getting one a day coming in either sick or dead, so we want to bring attention and awareness to that so people keep their eyes open for it,” Fox said.

Fox asks those who encounter a sick or dead turtle to call her office at 941-778-5638.

Fox said she and the Turtle Watch volunteers are often asked about how the red tide is impacting the baby sea turtles as leave the shore and head out to sea.

“We still have over 200 nests on the beach right now. They’re born with food in their belly and they’re not looking to eat. They’re looking to swim like crazy,” Fox said of the hatchlings initial efforts to swim to safer waters.

“So far, we’re not seeing any dead hatchlings, so it’s more important than ever for people to keep their lights off for the rest of the season so we can get these babies offshore quickly,” she said.

When asked about the shorebirds, Fox said, “We did a shorebird count Friday. The birds seem to be hanging out up at Bean Point by the thousands. It’s phenomenal to watch, but we’ve seen some that didn’t look like they feel good up there. They looked a little sluggish, so we’re working with Wildlife Inc. to get them transported up there.”

Headed by Gail and Ed Straight, Wildlife Inc. is headquartered in Bradenton Beach.

When expressing her appreciation for the upcoming “Turtle Watch Wednesday” fundraiser, Fox said, “The volunteers are so tired right now, so anytime anyone can cheer them on, especially with any kind of gathering, I think it’s going to give them the boost they need to finish out our season. A special shout out and thanks to A Paradise and Hank’s for thinking about the wildlife on the Island.”

Anna Maria City Pier

Second pier construction RFP being issued

Written by Joe Hendricks on . Posted in Anna Maria, Community News.

ANNA MARIA – Mayor Dan Murphy expects a new request for proposals (RFP) for the construction of a new city pier to be issued by the end of this week.

During the Aug. 23 City Commission meeting, Murphy said he expected to have those RFPs returned to the city by late September.

The mayor, the contracted pier engineer and some city staff members will review and rank the pier construction proposals received, and Murphy will then present the highest ranked firm for commission consideration. When contacted later, Murphy his goal was to present his recommendation to the commission in early October.

The commission can then direct Murphy to begin negotiations with the highest-ranked firm or it can reject all proposals received – as it did in late July regarding the two proposals received in response to the original construction RFP.

Largo-based Speeler & Associates, the firm that demolished the pier, submitted a bid for $3.72 million and Tampa-based i+iconSOUTHEAST bid $4.13 million to build the new pier platform. The original RFP did not seek bids for the construction of the restaurant and bait shop spaces at the T-end of the pier. Those items were to be addressed later in a separate bid.

The mayor and commission unanimously agreed those bids were higher than anticipated or desired and the decision was made to issue a new RFP based on modified construction specifications. Murphy said he had hoped the bids would be closer to $2.5 million for the construction of the pier platform.

Murphy is optimistic the revised RFP will generate interest from marine construction firms.

“We’ll get plenty of attention. This project is something that any company can put in their portfolio. It’s high-profile because of the age of the pier, the history of the pier and the importance of the pier to our community, our county and to the state for that matter. It’s a feather in anybody’s cap,” Murphy said.

FEMA permit

Murphy also told the commission the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has informed the city that it cannot start construction of the new pier until FEMA has reviewed and authorized all the pier plans.

Murphy said the city is not going to obtain any of the project funding requested from FEMA until FEMA approves the project. The building and decking at the T-end of the pier were damaged last September during Hurricane Irma.

“At this point, it’s around $1.8 million that we’ve requested,” Murphy said of the city’s funding request.

Murphy said he and city staff have sought assistance from the offices of U.S. Senators Bill Nelson and Marco Rubio, and he had a meeting scheduled with Congressman Vern Buchanan this week.

“It’s our understanding that when it comes to FEMA claims in the state of Florida we’re number one; we’re at the top of the list. Rubio’s staff guy called me and assured me that they were on top of it. They were putting on as much pressure as they can. The city clerk has spent a couple hours every day on the phone and using emails putting pressure on these people,” Murphy said.

“I feel comfortable this FEMA thing will come to resolution just about in time with the reception of the bids and we can then get started,” Murphy said.

He also said he hopes he and the commission don’t have to make a decision about proceeding with the pier project without FEMA funding.

“We can get more money from other sources, but I would prefer we do this the right way and we keep going on a straight and narrow. We’re entitled to the FEMA dollars, so we’re going to go after those first,” Murphy said.

Related coverage

Pier construction permits issued

Pier construction bids rejected

Pier demolition ahead of schedule

Red tide ‘flu’ nothing to sneeze at

Written by Cindy Lane on . Posted in Featured, Outdoors, Red tide.

Sore throats, coughing, sneezing, shortness of breath, headache, eye irritation, rashes – people on Anna Maria Island with some of these symptoms are complaining they have the “red tide flu.”

There’s no such thing, according to Brad Dalton, deputy press secretary for the Florida Department of Health.

“To our knowledge there are no medical conditions referred to as the ‘red tide flu,’ ” he said.

But a growing body of scientific research proves that red tide has human health effects, and not just on people with respiratory problems.

Studies show that red tide affects healthy lifeguards, increases emergency room admissions, can have lasting effects on some people for days after they leave the beach, and affects people up to four miles inland. One study also indicates a possible antidote for red tide.

The culprit: Red tide toxin

The algae known as Karenia brevis, which began blooming in overabundance in the Gulf of Mexico and inland waters in Collier County last October, kills fish, marine mammals, sea turtles and shorebirds and makes shellfish unfit for consumption. It drifted north to Anna Maria Island on Aug. 3, and people have been suffering symptoms here ever since.

The symptoms are triggered by a neurotoxin, called brevetoxin, that is stirred up by wave action and winds. When it becomes airborne, particularly blowing towards land, it can cause watery eyes, tickly throats and coughing, especially in people with respiratory issues such as asthma, emphysema or COPD, said Tom Larkin, environmental health director for the Manatee County Health Department.

“The aerosolized product can cause asthma attacks to flare,” he said. “If you go to the beach and experience those symptoms, leave and go to another beach, because it can be at one beach and not another. If you live here, stay inside air conditioning and limit your outside exposure,” he said, adding that an “N-95” mask, available at hardware stores, can help filter out red tide.

Studies confirm that using a surgical mask decreases inhalation of brevetoxin by up to 45 percent.

But inhaling the brevetoxin is not the only way you can be exposed to red tide, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).

Symptoms can follow ingesting red tide water by swallowing or even by breathing in tiny water particles in the air, eating contaminated shellfish or through skin contact while swimming or wading.

“Marine Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) can cause a variety of illnesses in people,” both immediate and recurring, according to the CDC.

Red tide antidote

A promising recent development is a study on sheep that has identified brevenal, an antidote to brevetoxin, in Karenia brevis itself. Experiments showed that brevenal helps clear the lungs of mucus produced by inhaling red tide. Researchers noted in “Pathophysiologic Airway Responses to Inhaled Red Tide Brevetoxin in Allergic Sheep” that it is the first documented case of a toxin-producing organism also producing its own antidote.

Red tide affects people inland

A study, “Inland Transport of Aerosolized Florida Red Tide Toxins,” shows that red tide can travel four miles inland from a red tide-affected beach. In addition, “People may still be exposed environmentally to the aerosolized brevetoxins even after they leave the beach,” according to the study. “Indeed, if people remain on a barrier island where no point is greater than 1.6 km (about 1 mile) from a coast, they will most likely be continuing their exposure in any outdoor setting and from all directions if the inland waters also contain K. brevis blooms.”

Inland waters including the Manatee River, Palma Sola Bay and Sarasota Bay all have shown evidence of red tide this month.

“Currently, the public health message in communities with onshore Karenia blooms has only recommended leaving the beach area to avoid aerosol exposure; this message needs to be re-evaluated based on these new findings to take into account the possibility of inland environmental exposure to brevetoxins, particularly for persons with underlying lung diseases such as asthma,” the study concluded.

Red tide worse for people with asthma

People with asthma experience “objectively measurable adverse changes in lung function from exposure to aerosolized Florida red tide toxins,” particularly among those requiring regular therapy with asthma medications, according to the study, “Aerosolized Red-Tide Toxins (Brevetoxins) and Asthma.”

The study “Florida Red Tide Toxins (Brevetoxins) and Longitudinal Respiratory Effects in Asthmatics” found that only one hour of exposure to Florida red tide aerosols can cause increased symptoms and decreased respiratory function lasting for at least several days after exposure.

“We recommend persons with underlying respiratory disease (and their healthcare providers, emergency medical facilities and public health officials) be aware of the onshore activity of Florida red tide blooms, and avoid visiting coastal areas with strong onshore winds during onshore blooms. This appears to be particularly important for poorly controlled asthmatics, and those with relatively little regular brevetoxin exposure (for example, those who live inland or visitors).”

ER visits up during red tide

Emergency room admissions for respiratory problems increases with red tide, according to a study called “Environmental Exposures to Florida Ted Tides,” which noted “a significant increase in the rates of respiratory disease admissions to an ER for coastal residents during a year when there was a red tide bloom over several months compared to respiratory disease admissions during no red tide.”

Red tide affects healthy people

Studies show that red tide also affects people without underlying respiratory problems.

In one study, “Occupational Exposure to Aerosolized Brevetoxins during Florida Red Tide Events: Effects on a Healthy Worker Population,” 28 healthy Florida lifeguards exposed to red tide toxins at work reported airway irritation including eye irritation, nasal congestion, cough and headaches.

Island lifeguards are coping with red tide with masks and air-conditioned lifeguard stands, Manatee County Marine Rescue Chief Joe Westerman said. The beach flag system does not specifically address red tide, but if it is bad enough that swimming is not advisable, beaches will be closed with a double red flag, as they have been a few days this month, he said.

Nets to neighbors

‘Nets to Neighbors’ next phase of red tide cleanup

Written by Joe Hendricks on . Posted in Anna Maria Island, Community News.

BRADENTON – After one week, Manatee County has ended its contracted canal and waterway cleanup efforts with APTIM and is transitioning to a voluntary “Nets to Neighbors” cleanup and maintenance campaign.

The cleanup services provided by APTIM were costing the county approximately $25,000 per day.

This announcement was made a county press conference on Monday afternoon.

“As of today, the contractor operations ended and the purpose of today’s meeting it to announce the county’s plans moving forward to a neighborhood and volunteer-based solution,” Commissioner Steve Jonsson said, noting that nearly 241 tons of red tide debris had been removed from county parks, beaches and canals.

“We’re transitioning to a program where we will provide nets and buckets to the neighborhood sites that have dumpsters. You and your neighbors can assist by picking up residual fish,” County Administrator Ed Hunzeker said.

Hunzeker said 50 dumpsters have been or will be placed countywide as part of the red tide cleanup and maintenance efforts. Parks and Grounds Operations Manager Carmine DeMilio said most of the red tide debris dumpsters would be emptied daily and some would be emptied upon request.

Hunzeker was asked what happens if the recently-cleaned canals become filled with dead fish again.

“If that happens we’ll be prepared to deal with it. We’ve been prepared to deal with everything that’s come our way so far,” he replied.

When asked if a cleanup contract could be initiated again, Hunzeker said, “Perhaps.”

On Tuesday, Aug. 21, the County Commission adopted a budget amendment that allocated $750,000 in county funds for red tide cleanup. The commission also authorized staff to apply for a $750,000 grant from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.

On Monday, Hunzeker said the grant application was made and the county has received a funding commitment but no grant money was received yet.

A press release issued after the press conference stated nets and buckets were taken to the Coral Shores, Wild Oak Bay and Trailer Estates neighborhoods and more would be available at the G.T. Bray Recreation Center on Wednesday.

Post-conference revelations

Not everyone is satisfied with APTIM’s efforts.

On Monday afternoon, Coral Shores resident Lindy Gallagher said, “They came through my canal one time and we never saw them again.”

When asked if she was satisfied, Gallagher said, “Oh, hell no.”

It appears that APTIM was fired.

When contacted, Jonsson said he spoke with other Coral Shores residents who were pleased with the efforts and he was not given the impression that APTIM was fired.

But a subsequent inquiry to the county produced email exchanges that occurred Saturday and began with County Commission Executive Assistant Sheri Smith emailing DeMilio about the contractor’s Friday evening update report.

“The response crew was instructed that recovery activities were going to end at the close of the day and at 4 p.m. the crews started to demobilize,” that report said.

“Did the contractor quit? What am I supposed to tell these people when they call and ask when their canal is going to be cleaned?” Smith asked DeMilio.

“They were let go and we are looking at different strategies, Damon Moore can explain further,” DeMilio responded, noting the county strategy would be readdressed Monday morning.

Moore, the county’s Environmental Program Manager, sent Smith an email that said, “By midday Friday they had worked through the existing large contiguous masses mostly within the areas of Coral Shores, Bowlees Creek and Trailer Estates. With the lack of accessible floating masses and fish rotting to the extent that they could not effectively be removed via the nets, I made the decision that this waterside approach was no longer an effective or wise use of funds at over $25k per day.”

When contacted Monday afternoon, County Information Outreach Manager Nick Azzara said, “From the start of the contractor effort we tried to manage expectations and let residents know that not every fish would be captured. If residents weren’t satisfied with the contractor cleanup, and if they’re not interested in the nets campaign, they’re welcome to call one of the local fishermen searching for work,” he said.

The county website contains a list of local fishermen and others who can be contracted for cleanup services.

Castles in the Sand

We’re Americans; we borrow

Written by Louise Bolger on . Posted in Business, Castles in the Sand.

Americans are very comfortable with debt, whether its household debt or government debt. And apparently, rising interest rates aren’t making any difference in our enthusiasm for borrowing.

The Federal Reserve Bank of New York has reported in its quarterly statement that household debts rose by $82 billion in the second quarter of the year. Much of this is because of higher interest rates for mortgages, credit cards, and auto loan balances. Household debt is now nearly 20 percent higher than five years ago and higher than before the financial crisis. Nevertheless, the feds report delinquency rates have been stable for most categories of debt and actually falling for student loans presumably because of the improved labor market.

In an effort to return interest rates to the levels before the financial crisis, the feds have been gradually raising rates since 2015. The average rate on a 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage was 4.6 percent a few weeks ago, up from a low of 3.4 percent in 2013. We can expect this to continue possibly influencing marginal buyers from qualifying.

Buyers with lower credit scores may be seeing those scores increase if they had collection accounts removed from their credit reports. The three credit reporting firms have agreed to remove items like collections for gym memberships, library fines and traffic tickets from reports as well as medical debt collections that were ultimately paid by insurance companies.

So how is any of this increased borrowing affecting our real estate markets? These are the statistics for Manatee County for July from the Realtor Association of Sarasota & Manatee.

There were 19.2 percent more single-family homes closed this July compared to last July. The median sale price was $309,500, which is 3.2 percenter higher than last year. The average sale price was $383,398, 2.4 percent higher. Median time to sell was 90 days compared to 92 from last year and the month’s supply dropped to 3.9 percent below the 4 months we’ve been carrying.

Condo sales for July were also up compared to last July at 10.1 percent. The median sale price was $199,250, up 20.8 percent, and the average sale price was $231,836, up 10.3 percent. Median time to sell was 87 days compared to 105 days last year, and the month’s supply of properties was also 3.9 percent.

Our market keeps improving in both number of sales and sales price and is apparently not slowing down because of the increased cost of borrowing. We’re also doing better than the state in all areas but one. Based on the July sales statistics published by the Florida Realtors website under market data, the single-family median sales price was $255,000, up 6.3 percent and the average was $335,055, up 5.7 percent. The number of sales for single-family was also up 3.8 percent.

The state of Florida condo sale median price was $180,000 in July, up 5.3 percent, and the average was $247,413, up 1 percent. The number of closed sales were up 8.5 percent.

The month’s supply of single-family properties for the state was 3.9 percent the same as Manatee County’s. However, the month’s supply of condos was 5.3 percent well over Manatee’s.

If you’re going to have debt, mortgage debt is the easiest to justify. You have to live someplace, so a home of your own where you can build equity is always better than paying rent. Based on our sales statistics buying a property in Manatee County looks like a good investment, and we do love debt. It’s the American way.

More Castles in the Sand

Who’s entitled to title insurance?

Are you underinsured?

Management of condominium associations

The fastest way to kill a sale

Red tide sign

Red tide update

Written by Joe Hendricks on . Posted in Featured, Outdoors, Red tide.

MANATEE COUNTY – Red tide continues to impact Anna Maria Island beaches and Manatee County waterways.

In water samples tested by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission as of Friday, Aug. 24, red tide counts were:

  • High at Rod and Reel Pier
  • High at Palma Sola Bay bridge
  • High at Longboat Pass Boat ramp

Respiratory irritation was reported in Manatee County from Aug. 16-23 at Coquina Beach and Manatee Beach. During that week, Manatee County waters showed minimal change in red tide cell concentrations from the previous week.

Red tide FAQs

What is red tide?

A red tide is a higher-than-normal concentration of a microscopic alga (plantlike organism). In the Gulf of Mexico, it is Karenia brevis, often abbreviated as K. brevis. At high concentrations, the organisms may discolor the water, sometimes red, light or dark green, brown or the water may appear clear.

What causes red tide?

A red tide bloom develops when biology (the organisms), chemistry (natural or man-made nutrients for growth) and physics (tides, winds, currents) work to produce the algal bloom. No one factor causes the development of a red tide bloom.

Where can I check the status of red tide at my local beach?

Mote Marine Laboratory

Are red tides new?

No. Red tides were documented in the Gulf of Mexico as far back as the 1700s and along Florida’s Gulf Coast since the 1840s. While red tides and other algal blooms occur worldwide, K. brevis is found almost exclusively in the Gulf of Mexico but has been found on the east coast of Florida and off the coast of North Carolina.

How long does a red tide last?

Red tide blooms can last days, weeks or months, and can also change daily due to wind conditions and ocean currents.

Is it safe to swim in water affected by red tide?

While people swim in red tide, some individuals may experience skin irritation and burning eyes. If your skin is easily irritated, avoid red tide water. If you experience irritation, get out of the ocean and thoroughly wash off with fresh water.

Can red tide affect me when I am not on the beach?

People in coastal areas near the shoreline may experience varying degrees of eye, nose, and throat irritation. When a person leaves an area with red tide, symptoms usually go away. If symptoms persist, please seek medical attention.

Are there people who are more sensitive to the toxins caused by red tide?

People with respiratory problems (like asthma, emphysema or bronchitis) should avoid red tide areas, especially when winds are blowing on shore. If you go to the beach and have one of these conditions, you should be very cautious. If you have symptoms, leave the beach and seek air conditioning (A/C). If symptoms persist, please seek medical attention.

What can I do to lessen the effects of red tide?

People usually get relief from respiratory symptoms by being in air-conditioned spaces. This is also true when driving: keep your car windows up and the A/C or heat on. For people without asthma or any other chronic respiratory problems, over-the-counter antihistamines may relieve symptoms. People with chronic lung ailments should be especially vigilant about taking prescribed medications daily. Always seek medical care if your symptoms worsen.

Can red tide affect pets?

Just like people, pets may be affected by red tide. If you live close to the beach, consider bringing outdoor pets inside during a bloom to prevent respiratory irritation. If you are at the beach with your pets, do not allow them to play with dead fish or foam that may accumulate on the beach during or after a red tide. If your pet swims in the red tide, wash them off with fresh water as soon as possible.

Is seafood in the area safe to eat?

Clams and oysters (mollusks) can contain red tide toxins that cause Neurotoxic Shellfish Poisoning. Check local harvesting status before collecting at FreshFromFlorida.com. Finfish caught live and healthy can be eaten if filleted and rinsed thoroughly. Edible meat of crabs, shrimp and lobsters (shellfish) can be eaten (do not eat the tomalley—the green digestive gland—of shellfish). Do not eat distressed or animals found dead under any circumstances.

Source: Florida Department of Health

Aerial surveys from Pinellas to Charlotte counties, including Manatee, also indicated the presence of offshore blooms of the marine cyanobacterium, Trichodesmium, which is not dangerous to humans or animals.

According to Manatee County’s Friday, Aug. 24 red tide update, the county continues to rake the beaches along the Gulf coast of Anna Maria Island, including Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach, Bayfront Park in Anna Maria and Manatee Beach in Holmes Beach, to clean the beaches of fish and other sea life affected by the recent arrival of red tide. 

  • Beaches are open.
  • Coquina Bayside, Coquina Beach and Cortez Beach north to Bean Point are moderate/heavy with fish.
  • Bayfront Park has moderate fish.
  • Coquina North and South Boat Ramps have moderate/heavy fish.
  • Crews are currently running beach rakes up from Coquina Pass and down from Bean Point.
  • Air quality is moderate with occasional coughing and irritation. Water color is tan/brown in some areas and brownish/reddish in others.
  • The county has contracted with a vendor to clean local waterways, beginning with the most affected areas this week.
  • Red Tide signs are posted at affected beaches and will remain until the red tide bloom is over.

“Red tide blooms can last days, weeks, or months and can change daily due to wind conditions and water currents,” according to the county.

When contacted Friday afternoon, county surf rake operator Mark Taylor said, “The water is still reddish, brown and ugly looking. We’re still getting about the same level of (dead) fish each day as well. The occasional tarpon keeps coming up each day also.

“We are expecting a wind change over the weekend, coming more out of the east. Hopefully, it will push some of this back offshore,” Taylor said.

Sarasota County

According to the Sarasota County website, “All beaches are open, but there is a ‘No Swim’ advisory for four area beaches.”

Sarasota County Health Department officials have issued a red tide advisory for several Sarasota County beaches.

“Several beaches have been affected by red tide and high levels of enteric bacteria. ‘NO SWIM’ Advisory for Longboat Key, Lido Casino, Brohard, and Venice Fishing Pier,” the health department website says.

Want to help?

Manatee County is hiring temporary workers to help clean beaches during the red tide bloom for $12.50 an hour. Call Faraja at Ad-VANCE Talent Solutions for more information at 941-739-8883.

For daily red tide conditions updated at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. visit visitbeaches.org.

Manatee County is also operating a Red Tide Hotline at 941-749-3547 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days week.

Canal cleanup services

Manatee County has contracted a vendor to clean local waterways, including those on and around Anna Maria Island.

“Due to the small maneuvering space in the canals, the cleaning must be done with nets and boats by hand. Homeowners and associations may want to continue to work with local fisherman for a more thorough cleaning of any remaining fish,” the county website says. Included at the county website is a list of local fishermen and others who’ve offered to assist with cleaning. Manatee County has not vetted these services. This list is not an endorsement of these businesses.

Contact the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) to report fish or marine life impacted by red tide.

 

– Cindy Lane contributed to this report

 

For more information, visit The Sun’s Red Tide Resources page.

Minnie's cafe staff

Minnie’s crew sings about red tide blues

Written by Tom Vaught on . Posted in Business.

HOLMES BEACH ­– The outbreak of red tide has cut into the profits of almost every business on Anna Maria Island and some business owners are fighting back, offering discounts for their services. Some of the larger Island restaurants banded together to offer a “Save our Shores” buffet Sunday now one of the smaller eateries is fighting back with music. The goal is to not only let people know that Minnie’s Beach Cafe is open for business but to also let them know there’s more to the Island than just the beaches.

The staff got together to dance to the Blondie song “The Tide is High,” sung by cook Mary Doub. Most of the waitresses danced to the music. The group dubbed themselves The Minnie’s Reefers and the video has been viewed by many people, including Maggie Plath, who came in Friday with her husband, Jim, to compliment them and collect a 10 percent discount for mentioning it.

Kathy Smart said they rewrote the lyrics several times.

“We went through it three times before we were satisfied,” she said.

“I thought it was very good,” said Maggie Plath. “After seeing it yesterday, I told my husband we would have to go here for breakfast.”

Smart said they hope people are entertained and come in for a meal.

Minnie's cafe guests
Guests Maggie and Jim Plath peruse the menu options at Minnie’s Beach Cafe. – Tom Vaught | Sun

“It was a lot of fun to make,” she said, “and it was a morale booster.”

Minnie’s Beach Cafe is open daily for breakfast and lunch. It’s located at 5360 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach in the S&S Plaza. The restaurant’s hours are 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday and 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. The staff’s music video, introducing the stylings of The Minnie’s Reefers, can be viewed on the Minnie’s Facebook page. Check out the video and mention it to your server when dining in at Minnie’s for a 10 percent discount on your next visit.

Red Tide Bradenton Beach Anchorage

TDC votes to recommend more money for red tide cleanup

Written by Tom Vaught on . Posted in Community News, Manatee County.

ANNA MARIA – Manatee County has been busy cleaning up the dead fish left by the current outbreak of red tide and the committee that is charged with bringing in tourism wants to make sure the county doesn’t run out of resources.

Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources Director Charlie Hunsicker gave a presentation Monday at the Manatee County Tourist Development Council (TDC) on how the county is handling the situation.

“Each day we clean the public parts of the beaches,” he said. “When the red tide came, we extended it to all the beaches.”

“When the dead fish came, it was a public health hazard and we went to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection for advice and we took the dead fish to the county landfill,” he said. “We got the fish out of the water.”

Hunsicker said you won’t find that in any of the other counties that have been hit by red tide, including Sarasota.

“We follow a policy of recover, restore and rejuvenate,” he said.

Newly appointed TDC member Eric Cairns, who owns Cedar Cove, a beachfront resort, praised the county for its rapid response to the problem.

“I see it every day,” he said of the cleanup effort.

Elliott Falcione, Executive Director of the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, suggested the TDC vote to set aside up to $500,000 to continue the cleanup efforts and got a positive vote. He said he would write up a proposal to take to the Manatee County Board of Commissioners for approval at a September or October meeting.

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Castles in the Sand

Who’s entitled to title insurance?

Written by Louise Bolger on . Posted in Business, Castles in the Sand.

As discussed last week, everyone needs homeowner’s insurance and an adequate amount. And of course, if you own a vehicle you need insurance on that as well. But what about this title insurance thing on your real estate? Do I need it, must I have it and what exactly does it insure?

When you purchase a property as a part of the closing procedure there will be a title search to verify you have clear title to the property. The title search reviews all the instruments, conveyances, public records and court proceedings to discover any material facts related to the title of a property. The search ensures that the “chain of title” is intact and that all liens, including mortgage liens, are satisfied at closing.

So, if everyone is doing their job why do we need title insurance? Nothing is perfect and there are many ways in which a clear title may not be so clear. Relatives of the previous owner, utility companies, government liens and contractors who may not have known about the sale of the property and did not have an opportunity to file a lien before the sale could all be given consideration after the sale. Even a simple misspelling could reveal a claim against the property.

Because of the unlikely but feasible event of one of these claims popping up after the sale, title insurance was invented in the mid-1800’s. It has since become the dominant method of protection for buyers and lenders and will pay for losses sustained by the new owner or their lender and will kick in to defend any ownership claims against the property.

If your home purchase involves a mortgage, virtually every lender will require you to purchase a title insurance policy just like requiring you to purchase a homeowner’s policy, so their interest is protected. This policy will protect the lender’s financial interest in your property as well as lender legal fees should that be required.

Some lenders also will require you to purchase an “owner’s policy” which you should do even if it’s not required. An owner’s policy is designed to protect the equity in your home as well as legal fees and other losses should the worst happen. For example, let’s assume the courts decide that a long-lost relative is, in fact, the house’s true owner. The lender’s policy will reimburse the lender for what you owe on the mortgage, but you’ll be out the amount of your down payment and other principal payments, not to mention that you will likely have to move out unless you purchased an owner’s policy. In addition, extended coverage policies are available for an additional cost if you and your legal advisor feel this is something you should purchase.

And like all things real estate there are exclusions and exceptions to the rules. A title insurance policy does not cover police power of the government such as zoning, building restrictions, setback requirements, and the rights of eminent domain (the power to take private property for public use by the state). Typically, it does not cover liens or encumbrances attaching to the property after the policy date.

Your attorney or closing agent working on behalf of an attorney will make the title search and title insurance less confusing at the closing table. It’s always important to be prepared beforehand so you know the right questions to ask and to make sure you’re purchasing the best possible insurance to protect your rights and money.

Bottom line, we’re all entitled to title insurance and we should all have it.

More Castles in the Sand

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red tide Recovery Meeting

Restaurateurs combat red tide

Written by Joe Hendricks on . Posted in Featured, Outdoors, Red tide.

CORTEZ – Local restaurateurs, food and beverage industry professionals and others gathered at the Swordfish Grill last week to discuss the economic impacts of red tide.

The hour-long informal discussion on Tuesday, Aug. 14, included Swordfish Grill general manager Bob Slicker, manager Adam Sears and owner John Banyas, Anna Maria Oyster Bar president John Horne, Chiles Group CEO Robert Baugh, Bunny and Pirates’ owners Elizabeth Shore and Jeffrey O’Connell, Waterfront Restaurant owner Jason Suzor, Cortez Kitchen owner Joe Oelker, Darwin Brewing Company owner/general manager Matt Cornelius, US Foods territory managers Robert DeMino and Nicholas Horne, Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources Director Charlie Hunsicker, Congressman Vern Buchanan field representative MarDee Buchman and Sen. Bill Galvano aides Macey Moon and Kathy Galea.

The discussion occurred one day after Gov. Rick Scott issued an executive order that provides $500,000 in Visit Florida emergency grant funds to be divided among seven counties to help promote tourism in southwest Florida.

A main topic of conversation concerned using social media to inform the public that the local businesses remain open. There was also talk of discouraging employees from posting pictures of dead fish and beachgoers wearing breathing masks because those images encourage patrons to visit mainland establishments instead.

Baugh said the decline in business is making it hard for some Chiles Group employees’ ability to pay their bills and Slicker said he’s been forced to reduce the number of employees scheduled per shift.

Banyas, who also owns Killer Bait and Cortez Bait & Seafood, said he’s seeing the upcoming mullet season floating by dead in the water. He also questioned whether the state would issue special permits that would allow local fishermen to harvest fish before the red tide kills them.

DeMino questioned why the state doesn’t treat Florida’s fishing industry with the same sense of urgency it places on the agricultural industry. He also questioned what role Mosaic, as the area’s largest phosphate producer, plays in the red tide crisis.

Slicker said the state’s elected officials need to be constantly reminded about red tide’s economic impacts and be pushed to find long-term solutions.

red tide recovery clean beach
A clean, uncrowded stretch of sand awaits visitors who come to the beaches of Anna Maria. – Chantelle Lewin | Sun

Gatherings of support

Tuesday’s discussion prompted organized gatherings at the BeachHouse restaurant on Wednesday, the Swordfish Grill on Thursday, Bunny and Pirate on Friday, the Anna Maria Oyster Bar in Bradenton Beach on Sunday and Gecko’s Dry Dock in Longboat Key on Monday. A similar gathering was planned for The Waterfront Restaurant in Anna Maria on Tuesday, Aug. 21, from 4-8 p.m.

The purpose of the gatherings is to use social media to show folks that businesses remain open while the red tide appears to have subsided some since its arrival in early August.

The BeachHouse gathering included Visit Florida President Ken Lawson, Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau Executive Director Elliot Falcione, county commissioners Carol Whitmore and Steve Jonsson and Solutions To Avoid Red Tide (START) Chairman Sandy Gilbert.

“I’m here to make sure we are marketing the area post-red tide and come up with a plan to use the $500,000 the governor allocated for post-red-tide marketing in the right way,” Lawson told The Sun. “We’re going to divvy up the money to the counties in the executive order. We have to communicate what’s open, what’s available and what we should do once we get rid of this red tide.”

Lawson and several others spoke while gathered on the BeachHouse patio.

“The most important area we need to focus on together is the public relations side of it,” Falcione said, stressing the need for accurate messaging by company spokespersons.

“This is an economic issue that’s impacting us, it’s not just some rotting fish in the bay,” Baugh said.

Horne suggested organizing a long table dining event on the beach and Slicker suggested it benefit START.

Jason Sato and Katie O’Connor, from Sato Real Estate, discussed the impact red tide is having on vacation rentals.

“Since Aug. 6, we’ve refunded almost $30,000 in reservation fees,” O’Connor said.

Gilbert said Sarasota Bay is much cleaner than it was 20 years ago, but that doesn’t make it immune to red tide.

He mentioned salinity, water temperatures and other water qualities that impact red tide.

“The only thing that varies is the nutrients. The scientists agree that the thing that really makes red tide come alive is the nutrients. What they don’t agree on is where they come from. We live between the two biggest dumps of nutrients in the world: The Mississippi River and the Caloosahatchee (River). Where do you think the water ends up? It ends up out there,” he said. pointing to the Gulf as he spoke.

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Manatee County EMS ambulance

Changes possible for Manatee County EMS

Written by SUN contributor on . Posted in Community News, Manatee County.

MANATEE COUNTY – Rumors of a pilot program launching in October to reduce the number of ambulances available to Manatee County residents during overnight hours is a long way from correct, according to Public Safety Director Robert Smith.

Smith said the issue has arisen out of budget discussions, however, the reason that ambulances may be reduced isn’t due to budgetary concerns but worries over the health of emergency medical services personnel.

Currently, EMS workers rotate through a schedule of 24 hours on and 48 hours off the clock. The reasonable expectation, Smith said, is that workers will have some downtime to sleep or rest during the 24-hour work period. With increases in call volume, he said workers at some high volume stations are working for 24 hours straight and with mandatory overtime requirements, some workers are going 48 hours without sleep and yet are still expected to provide medical care to Manatee County residents and visitors. All of the wear and tear on employees is leading to the public safety department seeking creative ways to reduce the stress on workers without adversely affecting the quality of care to residents and visitors.

One of the options under consideration is to reduce the number of ambulance units on the road during some overnight hours. During the day, Manatee County has a maximum of 19 ambulances on the road at any given time. At night, that number drops to a maximum of 18. Smith said while some ambulances run 10 to 15 calls or more at night, other units only run two or three. He said department leaders are looking at the number of calls each unit runs at night to determine if call volumes are low enough to take two to four ambulances offline for a few hours and shift the remaining units around the county to cover those areas. Smith said the project is just in the beginning stages and there’s a lot more data to look at before any decision is made, however, he said he’d be surprised if four ambulances could be taken offline at once.

In the event that an ambulance is removed from the area serviced by West Manatee Fire Rescue, Commissioner Randy Cooper said residents and visitors would be well covered by non-transport advanced life support services from EMS-trained firefighters. Chief Tom Sousa said that because of the county discussions, the district’s Cortez Road Station 2 will most likely be the second of the district’s stations to come online with non-transport ALS (advanced life support) service, hopefully as soon as October. The service is now offered at WMFR’s Holmes Beach station.

Another option Smith said the county is looking at is to remove EMS workers from 24-hour shifts, placing them on 12-hour shifts instead. In the proposed fiscal year 2018-19 county budget, that conversion is estimated at $636,234 and is listed as unfunded.

Before any decisions are made, Smith said, “We still have a lot of homework to do and a lot of data to crunch.” He said the process is just beginning, though when it’s nearer completion and a recommendation emerges, a presentation will be made to county commissioners for consideration.

Beach raker Tide Raker Read

Beach raker to the rescue

Written by Joe Hendricks on . Posted in Beach, Outdoors.

ANNA MARIA ISLAND – Manatee County equipment operator Mark Taylor has played a crucial role in the red tide cleanup efforts taking place on the Island’s Gulfside beaches.

Using a tractor to pull a piece of equipment known as a Barber beach rake, Taylor’s recently been working seven days a week, up to 12 hours a day, removing dead fish and other marine life from the beaches.

Taylor has worked for the county for 18 years. His beach raking duties are usually limited to the public beaches, but those county-funded efforts were recently expanded to include the entire Gulfside shoreline after dead fish killed by red tide began washing ashore in early August.

“I’m typically the only beach rake operating. I have got a backup rig and we’ve got an operator in Coquina Beach and Cortez Beach (in Bradenton Beach) that’s been working down there,” Taylor said after his workday ended on Friday.

Pulled behind a tractor, the beach raker gathers up dead fish and seagrass and drops it into a hopper that’s later emptied into a dumpster or the front-end loader recently put into service.

“Basically, I’ve been taking care of Holmes Beach and Anna Maria. It’s a lot of beach to cover and sometimes you have to make multiple passes because the fish are too thick to make a single line. If they’re spread out you’ve got to make two or three or four passes to get them all. When you’ve got this many fish it’s more like damage control. Instead of trying to get the last one up and make it perfect, you’re trying to get 85-90 percent of them off the beach because it’s coming back with the next tide,” Taylor explained.

He said the heaviest concentration of dead fish has typically been between Longboat Pass in Bradenton Beach and the Martinique condominiums in Holmes Beach.

Taylor works in an enclosed cab, and he’s been wearing a facemask and a scarf over his face, but he still feels the burn of the red tide-tainted air.

“It burns my eyes through the day. When you’re out there 12 hours a day breathing that stuff it’s hard on you,” he said.

Taylor was asked if he’s seen red tide this bad before.

“I have. I’ve been here all my life,” the 68-year-old Cortez native and former commercial fisherman said.

Beach Raker Taylor
County employee Mark Taylor has been working seven days a week cleaning up the Island beaches impacted by red tide. – Mark Taylor | Submitted

As for what he’s seeing on the beaches, Taylor said, “We’ve gotten a turtle or two, some tarpon, a tremendous amount of snook, a few grouper and a few jewfish. Most of the volume is grunts, pinfish, catfish, horseshoe crabs and eels – the most eels I’ve ever seen.”

Taylor said he saw less dead fish on Saturday, but the air felt more toxic. He said he saw beached redfish for the first time and also a good-sized dead turtle.

Taylor said the dead fish were light on Sunday as he worked his way from Manatee Public Beach to Bean Point and back.

“Everything looks much better today,” he said that day.

Taylor said conditions were a little better overall Monday morning, but heavier in some places.

“Seems to be worse on the south end of the Island, back to the pass. Lots of horseshoe crabs today,” he said via text, noting that he hadn’t yet headed north.

Taylor said the beach cleanup continues to be a group effort.

“I’m just one of many out here. There are a lot of people in various departments working on this,” he said.

Efforts praised

County Commissioner and Holmes Beach resident Carol Whitmore shared her praise for Taylor and others.

“Mark has led the efforts to clean our beach parks. We can’t thank Mark and the county staff enough for working very long hours to keep up with the red tide fish kill. Carmine DeMilio (Parks Operation Manager) has stepped up and let Mark do what he does best,” Whitmore said.

Anna Maria Public Works Manager Dean Jones also praised Taylor.

“Mark has been working 12-13-hour days on the beaches. His family is one of the original families that settled Cortez. His roots run deep in this community, and he is one of the many stewards of the local environment. He is one of the nicest and kindest guys you will ever meet, and I am proud to know him,” Jones said.