1. Agricultural and Horticultural Enterprises

3. Natural Resources and Environmental Quality

Recent below-average rainfall, as reported by drought.gov, underscores the importance of smart water-saving practices. While we&#8217;re not in drought conditions yet, responsible management of freshwater resources is crucial. Florida-Friendly Landscaping offers guidance on creating beautiful landscapes that conserve water. Key practices include selecting plants suited to their environment and grouping them by water needs. Implementing [&#8230;]

Recent below-average rainfall, as reported by <a href="https://www.drought.gov/">drought.gov</a>, underscores the importance of smart water-saving practices. While we&#8217;re not in drought conditions yet, responsible management of freshwater resources is crucial. Florida-Friendly Landscaping offers guidance on creating beautiful landscapes that conserve water. Key practices include selecting plants suited to their environment and grouping them by water needs. Implementing efficient irrigation systems and using mulch to retain soil moisture are additional methods for ensuring targeted and efficient water use in our landscapes and gardens.
<h4>How Much and When</h4>
<figure id="attachment_3897" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-3897" style="width: 272px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img decoding="async" fetchpriority="high" class=" wp-image-3897" src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/putnamco/files/2024/06/AdobeStock_740094261-1-300x204.jpeg" alt="gardener manually watering plants in garden using hose" width="272" height="185" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-3897" class="wp-caption-text">A single deep watering per week is more beneficial than several light waterings.</figcaption></figure>
Determining the appropriate frequency and amount of water for your landscape depends on various factors such as soil absorption rate, elevation, plant types, and current weather conditions. During prolonged dry periods like the present, it&#8217;s generally sufficient to water most landscape plants deeply once or twice a week, with each watering session typically delivering about three-quarters of an inch of water.
The optimal times for watering plants are early morning, before 10 a.m., and early evening, after 4 p.m. but before sunset. Avoid watering between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., the hottest part of the day, especially in summer, when water is prone to evaporate quickly and can potentially harm plants by causing leaf burn. Morning watering allows plants to absorb water throughout the day and gives them time to dry before nightfall, which is ideal. Evening watering is acceptable but ensure plants have enough time to dry before dark to minimize the risk of fungal issues.
This approach helps ensure that plants receive adequate water while minimizing water loss through evaporation and potential harm to plant health.  Remember to check your local water management district for watering restrictions and days you should water (<a href="https://www.sjrwmd.com/wateringrestrictions/">St. Johns River Water Management District</a>).
<h4>Smart Irrigation</h4>
<figure id="attachment_3903" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-3903" style="width: 300px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-3903 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="Pictures of a drip line and a microjet" width="300" height="200" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/putnamco/files/2024/06/Micro-irrigation-300x200.png"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-3903" class="wp-caption-text">Microirrigation allow you pick the best emitters for your area from drip emitters (left) to microjets (right). UF/IFAS Photo by Tyler Jones</figcaption></figure>
Where possible, use drip or micro irrigation as well as smart timers. Drip and micro irrigation provide more targeted watering and reduce water waste. Drip irrigation is considered the most efficient method because the emitters typically have a flow rate of less than 1 gallon of water per hour. However, it needs to be close to the plant, which can be challenging in dense plantings. This is where micro irrigation excels, using different types of emitters, such as drip emitters, bubblers, and microsprays. Both systems are low-flow, focused watering methods that are easily installed. Regular inspection is required to ensure emitters aren&#8217;t clogged and there are no breaks in the line.
There are many different water timers on the market that hook up to your spigot and can be programmed. While some inexpensive models are available, it&#8217;s best to invest in a higher-quality timer to maximize water savings. Make sure to disconnect these during the winter to prevent freeze damage.
Some features to look for include:
<ul>
<li>Easy programming</li>
<li>Ability to program multiple days and times (remember to water a maximum of two days a week)</li>
<li>Rain delay capability</li>
</ul>
<h4>Mulch</h4>
Mulching is another practice that can reduce water usage, specifically using organic mulch. Properly applied mulch, along with a well-designed irrigation system, can reduce the need for fertilizers and pesticides. Mulch helps retain soil moisture, control weed growth, and discourage insect pests and plant pathogens. Key points when using mulch include selecting the right type, applying the right amount, and avoiding inorganic mulch as much as possible.
<figure id="attachment_3913" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-3913" style="width: 300px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><img decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-3913 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="Gardener mulching with pine bark juniper plants in the yard. " width="300" height="200" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/putnamco/files/2024/06/AdobeStock_357688672-300x200.jpeg"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-3913" class="wp-caption-text">Along with saving water, mulch also helps improve the soil, reduces weed growth and diseases.</figcaption></figure>
While pine bark is a personal favorite, there are many other options like pine straw, melaleuca, eucalyptus, and even leaves. Some types break down faster than others, but all can be effective. Avoid artificially colored mulch unless it is labeled with the MSC Certification logo, especially when used around edibles. You can find more information about different mulches by accessing the University of Florida  document <a href="https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/EP626">&#8220;Florida-Friendly Mulches and Their Uses.&#8221;</a>
For the best benefits, mulch should be applied about 2-3 inches deep. Use a mulch calculator to determine how many bags you will need, based on the dimensions of your bed in feet.
<h4>Other Considerations for Abnormally Dry Periods</h4>
Here are a few more considerations for these times. First, avoid fertilizing. Fertilizers promote new growth, which requires more water. Next, reduce the use of pesticides. Although plants may be stressed and pests more prevalent, pesticides can be more harmful during this period. Additionally, herbicides, especially contact herbicides like Roundup, need healthy and well-watered plants to be effective. Lastly, consider installing water harvesting systems like rain barrels. Collecting water in rain barrels during periods of ample rainfall can provide a free source of supplemental water when needed.
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Managing our water resources responsibly is more important than ever, especially given the below-average rainfall. By implementing Florida-Friendly Landscaping practices, such as selecting the right plants and grouping them by water needs, we can create beautiful and water-efficient landscapes. Additionally, employing efficient irrigation systems, using mulch, and avoiding fertilizers and pesticides during dry periods can further enhance water conservation. Installing water harvesting systems like rain barrels can provide a supplemental water source during times of scarcity. By adopting these strategies, we can maintain thriving gardens and landscapes while conserving precious water resources.
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Recent below-average rainfall, as reported by drought.gov, underscores the importance of smart water-saving practices. While we’re not in drought conditions yet, responsible management of freshwater resources is crucial. Florida-Friendly Landscaping offers guidance on creating beautiful landscapes that conserve water. Key practices include selecting plants suited to their environment and grouping them by water needs. Implementing efficient irrigation systems and using mulch to retain soil moisture are additional methods for ensuring targeted and efficient water use in our landscapes and gardens.
How Much and When
A single deep watering per week is more beneficial than several light waterings.
Determining the appropriate frequency and amount of water for your landscape depends on various factors such as soil absorption rate, elevation, plant types, and current weather conditions. During prolonged dry periods like the present, it’s generally sufficient to water most landscape plants deeply once or twice a week, with each watering session typically delivering about three-quarters of an inch of water.
The optimal times for watering plants are early morning, before 10 a.m., and early evening, after 4 p.m. but before sunset. Avoid watering between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., the hottest part of the day, especially in summer, when water is prone to evaporate quickly and can potentially harm plants by causing leaf burn. Morning watering allows plants to absorb water throughout the day and gives them time to dry before nightfall, which is ideal. Evening watering is acceptable but ensure plants have enough time to dry before dark to minimize the risk of fungal issues.
This approach helps ensure that plants receive adequate water while minimizing water loss through evaporation and potential harm to plant health.  Remember to check your local water management district for watering restrictions and days you should water (St. Johns River Water Management District).
Smart Irrigation
Microirrigation allow you pick the best emitters for your area from drip emitters (left) to microjets (right). UF/IFAS Photo by Tyler Jones
Where possible, use drip or micro irrigation as well as smart timers. Drip and micro irrigation provide more targeted watering and reduce water waste. Drip irrigation is considered the most efficient method because the emitters typically have a flow rate of less than 1 gallon of water per hour. However, it needs to be close to the plant, which can be challenging in dense plantings. This is where micro irrigation excels, using different types of emitters, such as drip emitters, bubblers, and microsprays. Both systems are low-flow, focused watering methods that are easily installed. Regular inspection is required to ensure emitters aren’t clogged and there are no breaks in the line.
There are many different water timers on the market that hook up to your spigot and can be programmed. While some inexpensive models are available, it’s best to invest in a higher-quality timer to maximize water savings. Make sure to disconnect these during the winter to prevent freeze damage.
Some features to look for include:
Easy programming
Ability to program multiple days and times (remember to water a maximum of two days a week)
Rain delay capability
Mulch
Mulching is another practice that can reduce water usage, specifically using organic mulch. Properly applied mulch, along with a well-designed irrigation system, can reduce the need for fertilizers and pesticides. Mulch helps retain soil moisture, control weed growth, and discourage insect pests and plant pathogens. Key points when using mulch include selecting the right type, applying the right amount, and avoiding inorganic mulch as much as possible.
Along with saving water, mulch also helps improve the soil, reduces weed growth and diseases.
While pine bark is a personal favorite, there are many other options like pine straw, melaleuca, eucalyptus, and even leaves. Some types break down faster than others, but all can be effective. Avoid artificially colored mulch unless it is labeled with the MSC Certification logo, especially when used around edibles. You can find more information about different mulches by accessing the University of Florida  document “Florida-Friendly Mulches and Their Uses.”
For the best benefits, mulch should be applied about 2-3 inches deep. Use a mulch calculator to determine how many bags you will need, based on the dimensions of your bed in feet.
Other Considerations for Abnormally Dry Periods
Here are a few more considerations for these times. First, avoid fertilizing. Fertilizers promote new growth, which requires more water. Next, reduce the use of pesticides. Although plants may be stressed and pests more prevalent, pesticides can be more harmful during this period. Additionally, herbicides, especially contact herbicides like Roundup, need healthy and well-watered plants to be effective. Lastly, consider installing water harvesting systems like rain barrels. Collecting water in rain barrels during periods of ample rainfall can provide a free source of supplemental water when needed.
Managing our water resources responsibly is more important than ever, especially given the below-average rainfall. By implementing Florida-Friendly Landscaping practices, such as selecting the right plants and grouping them by water needs, we can create beautiful and water-efficient landscapes. Additionally, employing efficient irrigation systems, using mulch, and avoiding fertilizers and pesticides during dry periods can further enhance water conservation. Installing water harvesting systems like rain barrels can provide a supplemental water source during times of scarcity. By adopting these strategies, we can maintain thriving gardens and landscapes while conserving precious water resources.

Recent below-average rainfall, as reported by drought.gov, underscores the importance of smart water-saving practices. While we’re not in drought conditions yet, responsible management of freshwater resources is crucial. Florida-Friendly Landscaping offers guidance on creating beautiful landscapes that conserve water. Key practices include selecting plants suited to their environment and grouping them by water needs. Implementing […]

Smart Water-Saving Tips

In fisheries management, setting the acceptable biological catch (ABC) is vital to ensure sustainable harvest without overexploiting fish stocks. The ABC determines how much fish can be harvested each year, and is estimated using a stock assessment model that brings together multiple data sources to estimate fish abundance and productivity.  However, in the Gulf of [&#8230;]

<figure id="attachment_4501" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-4501" style="width: 540px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-4501 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="Photo by scanning electron microscope of Karenia brevis aka red tide. Courtesy of FWC" width="540" height="394" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/collierco/files/2024/06/K.-brevis-aka-red-tide-FWC-photo.jpg"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-4501" class="wp-caption-text">Photo taken from a scanning electron microscope of Karenia brevis aka red tide. Photo By: FWC. * Banner photo: A red tide killed snook washed ashore in Southwest Florida. Photo By: Chris O&#8217;Meara AP.</figcaption></figure>
In fisheries management, setting the acceptable biological catch (ABC) is vital to ensure sustainable harvest without overexploiting fish stocks. The ABC determines how much fish can be harvested each year, and is estimated using a stock assessment model that brings together multiple data sources to estimate fish abundance and productivity.  However, in the Gulf of Mexico, red tides introduce a lot of uncertainty into this process. Ongoing red tide blooms can leave managers guessing about their impacts on fish stocks when trying to set the ABC. This uncertainty about red tide impacts can lead to lower catch levels for commercial and recreational fishers, resulting in a lower ABC and less opportunities to bring fish home. To learn more about the ins and outs of  fisheries management in Florida, check out the third education module in the FREE <a href="https://ifas-seagrant.catalog.instructure.com/?filters%5B%5D=free">Florida Friendly Angler</a> online program!
<figure id="attachment_4493" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-4493" style="width: 354px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-4493 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="" width="354" height="186" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/collierco/files/2024/06/The-OFL-ABC-ACL-ACT-framework.jpg"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-4493" class="wp-caption-text">Framework of harvest limits used in fisheries management</figcaption></figure>
Red tides affect fish populations and ecosystems in several ways.  First, the brevetoxin released by red tide affects the central nervous system of fish and can result in large fish kills. Moreover, there are multiple sublethal and indirect effects of red tide such as low oxygen, impacts to benthic habitat, movement, and food web dynamics. Red tide could possibly alter the amount of bait/forage available for our prized game fish to eat and negatively impact the habitat where they live. In other words, a gag grouper that is exposed to red tide or poor water quality will have less food to eat, slower growth, and be less likely to survive, reproduce, and maybe one day be caught.  Combined with the fact that red tide doesn’t occur in the same place every time, with the same severity or duration makes estimating red tide impacts on reef fish species tough!
<figure id="attachment_4497" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-4497" style="width: 407px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-4497 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="" width="407" height="305" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/collierco/files/2024/06/Sheepshead1.jpg"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-4497" class="wp-caption-text">A sheepshead washed ashore from a red tide bloom in Southwest Florida. Photo By: Bryan Fluech.</figcaption></figure>
To tackle this difficult task of estimating red tide impacts on fish stocks and helping make better informed management decisions, comes a new project that aims to a estimate and incorporating red tide mortality into the ABC determination for Gulf of Mexico (GoM) reef fishes. The “<a href="https://restoreactscienceprogram.noaa.gov/projects/red-tide-and-reef-fish-modeling">Operationalizing the West Florida Shelf ecosystem model and application to red tides, stock assessment, and catch advice for Gulf of Mexico reef fish</a>” project was funded by the NOAA Restore Science Program.  The project team is developing satellite products to map red tides that will inform an ecosystem model designed to account for factors like the severity and duration of red tide blooms, their lethal and sublethal impact on fish and other marine fauna, and ecosystem dynamics.
<figure id="attachment_4499" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-4499" style="width: 583px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-4499 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="" width="583" height="232" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/collierco/files/2024/06/Fig-2.-K.-brevis-bloom-frequency-maps-from-integration-of-water-sample-data-and-MODIS-satellite-observations.-Figure-adapted-from-Hu-et-al.-2022.jpg"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-4499" class="wp-caption-text">Bloom frequency maps from integration of water sample data and MODIS satellite observations. Figure adapted from Hu et al. (2022).</figcaption></figure>
In previous work, the ecosystem model was used to inform the ABC for gag grouper, resulting in a longer fishing season because the impacts on ongoing blooms were estimated to be lower than anticipated.  The project team will refine the model&#8217;s inputs and extend its application to additional GoM reef fishes over the next five years. Furthermore, it will develop improved satellite-derived red tide maps and update biogeochemical models to estimate nutrient and oxygen dynamics. These model improvements will enable more precise estimation of red tide mortality rates on various reef fish species undergoing stock assessments. The project outcomes will be presented at workshops and incorporated into stock assessments, ensuring that the ABC reflects current red tide conditions. By operationalizing this modeling framework, fisheries managers can conduct routine red tide assessments, enhancing the sustainability of Gulf fisheries!
<h2></h2>
<h2>Where you can help!</h2>
<h3>Are you an angler, boater or beach goer living on the West Coast of Florida and wish to help researchers know more about red tide?</h3>
<h3><a href="https://ufl.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_1AOsyJqHCThEPb0">Then please consider taking this brief survey anytime you head out on the water and experience red tide.</a></h3>
The survey may be accessed via the hyperlink above or by copy and pasting this link into your browser: <a href="https://ufl.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_1AOsyJqHCThEPb0">https://ufl.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_1AOsyJqHCThEPb0 </a>
Information researchers are interested in includes: where did you encounter red tide? Did you see any dead/dying marine life? If so which species? Did your plans change due to encountering red tide? These and a few more questions can improve the models and help managers a TON by helping us determine how fisheries are affected by red tides!
<figure id="attachment_4509" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-4509" style="width: 630px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-4509 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="" width="630" height="294" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/collierco/files/2024/06/Red-Tide-Survey-Screen-Grab.jpg"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-4509" class="wp-caption-text">An example of a question asked on the red tide survey to better understand where fish are dying, what species and how your trip may have been affected. Click the links above to access the survey to help fisheries science!</figcaption></figure>
Have a question about red tide and fisheries management you would like answered? <a href="https://ufl.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_1RZnQdqIrIeOgXY">Submit your question via this link here and check back to this blog periodically where selected questions and answers will be posted!</a>
<figure id="attachment_4505" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-4505" style="width: 452px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-4505 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="" width="452" height="338" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/collierco/files/2024/06/Photo-Kate-Spinner-Red-tide-Sarasota-Herald-Tribune-1.jpg"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-4505" class="wp-caption-text">A typical sight during a red tide bloom with both forage and game fish washed ashore. Help us determine which fish dying, where and when by responding to the reporting survey above! Photo By: Kate Spinner Sarasota Herald-Tribune.</figcaption></figure>
<h2>Resources:</h2>
<ul>
<li>Red Tide Updates:
<ul>
<li>There are plenty(!) of resources and educational materials created about red tide! Check the links below to find information on red tide monitoring, forecasts and beach conditions that you may want to add to your red tide tackle box if and when a bloom occurs.  <a href="https://myfwc.com/research/about/connect/subscribe/">The Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC) has a service where you can subscribe to to receive weekly email and/or text notifications on the detection and current status of red tide throughout the state.  </a></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<a href="https://member.everbridge.net/453003085614923/login"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class=" wp-image-4559 alignright" src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/collierco/files/2024/06/Naples-Red-tide-status.jpg" alt="" width="378" height="184" /></a>
<ul>
<li style="list-style-type: none">
<ul>
<li>Collier County also has an automated notification system regarding red tide presence/status at county specific locations. <a href="https://member.everbridge.net/453003085614923/login">To sign up for theses updates check out this link</a><a href="https://member.everbridge.net/453003085614923/login">.</a></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
<ul>
<li><a href="https://myfwc.com/research/saltwater/health/fish-kills-hotline/causes/">Common Causes of Fish Kills in Florida</a>&#8211; Dead fish doesn’t always mean red tide, low dissolved oxygen, blue green algae, and extreme weather events can result in a fish kill. Check the link to learn more!</li>
<li>Monitoring: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://myfwc.com/research/redtide/statewide/?redirect=redtidestatus">FWC Link to current red tide status throughout the state of Florida</a></li>
<li><a href="https://visitbeaches.org/beach/49/report/41723">Mote Marine Laboratory beach condition reporting system for Florida</a>. Information regarding red tide presence with plenty of info on tidal and environmental conditions across many beaches within our state. </li>
<li><a href="http://ocgweb.marine.usf.edu/hab_tracking/HAB_trajectories.html">USF Ocean Circulation Lab Red Tide Prediction and Tracking</a></li>
<li><a href="https://coastalscience.noaa.gov/science-areas/habs/hab-forecasts/gulf-of-mexico/">National Centers For Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) harmful algae bloom forecasts for Florida and Texas</a></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Reporting:
<ul>
<li>Live on the west coast of Florida and would like to help researchers record observations during a red tide? <a href="https://ufl.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_1AOsyJqHCThEPb0">Please consider taking this brief survey when you encounter a bloom near you.</a></li>
<li>FWC Fish Kill Hotline 800-636-0511 </li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Red Tide Fact Sheets:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://myfwc.com/media/12422/karenia-brevis-factsheet.pdf">Karenia brevis (red tide) fact sheet</a></li>
<li><a href="https://myfwc.com/media/16370/2013-ecphab-brochure_red-tides-on-the-west-florida-shelf.pdf">Red Tides on the West Florida Shelf</a></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Red Tide FAQs:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://myfwc.com/research/redtide/faq/">FWC red tide frequently asked questions</a></li>
<li><a href="https://coastalscience.noaa.gov/science-areas/habs/hab-forecasts/gulf-of-mexico/faqs/">National Centers For Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) Gulf of Mexico harmful algal bloom frequently asked questions</a></li>
<li><a href="https://mote.org/news/florida-red-tide">Mote Marine red tide frequently asked questions</a></li>
<li>Blog: <a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/charlotteco/2018/08/14/frequently-asked-questions-about-the-2018-red-tide-bloom/">Frequently Asked Questions about the 2018 Red Tide Bloom</a></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Red Tide Seafood Safety/Fishing: 
<ul>
<li>Blog: <a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/news/2023/03/29/when-red-tide-hits-is-your-seafood-safe-a-uf-expert-answers-questions/">When red tide hits, is your seafood safe? A UF expert answers questions</a></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Red Tide General Info: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://myfwc.com/media/21885/bloom-historic-database.pdf">Historic frequency of red tide in Florida by year and month in Florida, FWC</a></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Videos: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1er085e7M54">Red Tide in Florida FWC Infographic Video</a> (4:32)</li>
<li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_VRyW2C3yhg">Red Tide Facts and Myths Collier County Video</a> (26:32)</li>
<li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26l5I50KbL4">Red Tide and Seafood Safety FWC Infographic Video</a> (4:19)</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Peer Reviewed Papers:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20411030/">Literature Review of Florida Red Tide: Implications for Human Health Effects</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.int-res.com/abstracts/meps/v378/p171-186/">Effects of Karenia brevis harmful algal blooms on nearshore fish communities in southwest Florida</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0304380018304101?casa_token=CWsj_EO99pAAAAAA:0gpg-eCsFDqwSa6jxHokVVG0Yp6_gRJF8S93ClFyG_y2rARq-fZWlTPP4dc9Cjd5pj_HKU62TA">Effects of Karenia brevis harmful algal blooms on fish community structure on the West Florida Shelf</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-023-29327-z">Evaluating red tide effects on the West Florida Shelf using a spatiotemporal ecosystem modeling framework</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1568988308001571?casa_token=zKOrbpFokv8AAAAA:dD0iAZWpEDZ1oWsNR-2S_thvqsdw-kd9-go_8ptY3scuU70LkHUuir4tK-ZqllknBQN2CixMKg">Karenia brevis red tides, brevetoxins in the food web, and impacts on natural resources: Decadal advancements</a></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Blue-Green Algae aka Cyanobacteria and other HABs:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/manateeco/2020/07/14/resources-for-understanding-blue-green-algae-cyanobacteria-blooms/">Resources for understanding blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) blooms</a></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>General resources: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://water.ifas.ufl.edu/harmful-algal-blooms/faq/">University of Florida harmful algae bloom website.</a> Information of causes, effects, solutions and FAQs of HABs</li>
<li><a href="https://www.protectingfloridatogether.gov/education-center">Protecting Florida Together</a>; website with information regarding red tide/blue green algae task force, habitat restoration etc.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<div style="top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%;">				<iframe loading="lazy" title="Swimming Karenia brevis 10&#039;" style="width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute;" src="https://embedr.flickr.com/photos/44940561414" width="500" height="373" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; fullscreen" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
Karenia brevis aka &#8220;red tide&#8221; cells swimming! These microscopic organisms belong to the dinoflagellate phylum of algae which have appendages that allow them to move around in the water column. The word dinoflagellate is derived from the Greek dînos meaning  &#8220;whirling&#8221; and Latin flagellum meaning &#8220;whip.&#8221; K. brevis&#8217;s unique motion helps researchers identify red tide cells from other phytoplankton and algae in a water sample.

Photo taken from a scanning electron microscope of Karenia brevis aka red tide. Photo By: FWC. * Banner photo: A red tide killed snook washed ashore in Southwest Florida. Photo By: Chris O’Meara AP.
In fisheries management, setting the acceptable biological catch (ABC) is vital to ensure sustainable harvest without overexploiting fish stocks. The ABC determines how much fish can be harvested each year, and is estimated using a stock assessment model that brings together multiple data sources to estimate fish abundance and productivity.  However, in the Gulf of Mexico, red tides introduce a lot of uncertainty into this process. Ongoing red tide blooms can leave managers guessing about their impacts on fish stocks when trying to set the ABC. This uncertainty about red tide impacts can lead to lower catch levels for commercial and recreational fishers, resulting in a lower ABC and less opportunities to bring fish home. To learn more about the ins and outs of  fisheries management in Florida, check out the third education module in the FREE Florida Friendly Angler online program!
Framework of harvest limits used in fisheries management
Red tides affect fish populations and ecosystems in several ways.  First, the brevetoxin released by red tide affects the central nervous system of fish and can result in large fish kills. Moreover, there are multiple sublethal and indirect effects of red tide such as low oxygen, impacts to benthic habitat, movement, and food web dynamics. Red tide could possibly alter the amount of bait/forage available for our prized game fish to eat and negatively impact the habitat where they live. In other words, a gag grouper that is exposed to red tide or poor water quality will have less food to eat, slower growth, and be less likely to survive, reproduce, and maybe one day be caught.  Combined with the fact that red tide doesn’t occur in the same place every time, with the same severity or duration makes estimating red tide impacts on reef fish species tough!
A sheepshead washed ashore from a red tide bloom in Southwest Florida. Photo By: Bryan Fluech.
To tackle this difficult task of estimating red tide impacts on fish stocks and helping make better informed management decisions, comes a new project that aims to a estimate and incorporating red tide mortality into the ABC determination for Gulf of Mexico (GoM) reef fishes. The “Operationalizing the West Florida Shelf ecosystem model and application to red tides, stock assessment, and catch advice for Gulf of Mexico reef fish” project was funded by the NOAA Restore Science Program.  The project team is developing satellite products to map red tides that will inform an ecosystem model designed to account for factors like the severity and duration of red tide blooms, their lethal and sublethal impact on fish and other marine fauna, and ecosystem dynamics.
Bloom frequency maps from integration of water sample data and MODIS satellite observations. Figure adapted from Hu et al. (2022).
In previous work, the ecosystem model was used to inform the ABC for gag grouper, resulting in a longer fishing season because the impacts on ongoing blooms were estimated to be lower than anticipated.  The project team will refine the model’s inputs and extend its application to additional GoM reef fishes over the next five years. Furthermore, it will develop improved satellite-derived red tide maps and update biogeochemical models to estimate nutrient and oxygen dynamics. These model improvements will enable more precise estimation of red tide mortality rates on various reef fish species undergoing stock assessments. The project outcomes will be presented at workshops and incorporated into stock assessments, ensuring that the ABC reflects current red tide conditions. By operationalizing this modeling framework, fisheries managers can conduct routine red tide assessments, enhancing the sustainability of Gulf fisheries!

Where you can help!
Are you an angler, boater or beach goer living on the West Coast of Florida and wish to help researchers know more about red tide?
Then please consider taking this brief survey anytime you head out on the water and experience red tide.
The survey may be accessed via the hyperlink above or by copy and pasting this link into your browser: https://ufl.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_1AOsyJqHCThEPb0 
Information researchers are interested in includes: where did you encounter red tide? Did you see any dead/dying marine life? If so which species? Did your plans change due to encountering red tide? These and a few more questions can improve the models and help managers a TON by helping us determine how fisheries are affected by red tides!
An example of a question asked on the red tide survey to better understand where fish are dying, what species and how your trip may have been affected. Click the links above to access the survey to help fisheries science!
Have a question about red tide and fisheries management you would like answered? Submit your question via this link here and check back to this blog periodically where selected questions and answers will be posted!
A typical sight during a red tide bloom with both forage and game fish washed ashore. Help us determine which fish dying, where and when by responding to the reporting survey above! Photo By: Kate Spinner Sarasota Herald-Tribune.
Resources:
Red Tide Updates:

There are plenty(!) of resources and educational materials created about red tide! Check the links below to find information on red tide monitoring, forecasts and beach conditions that you may want to add to your red tide tackle box if and when a bloom occurs.  The Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC) has a service where you can subscribe to to receive weekly email and/or text notifications on the detection and current status of red tide throughout the state.  

Collier County also has an automated notification system regarding red tide presence/status at county specific locations. To sign up for theses updates check out this link.
 
Common Causes of Fish Kills in Florida– Dead fish doesn’t always mean red tide, low dissolved oxygen, blue green algae, and extreme weather events can result in a fish kill. Check the link to learn more!
Monitoring: 

FWC Link to current red tide status throughout the state of Florida
Mote Marine Laboratory beach condition reporting system for Florida. Information regarding red tide presence with plenty of info on tidal and environmental conditions across many beaches within our state. 
USF Ocean Circulation Lab Red Tide Prediction and Tracking
National Centers For Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) harmful algae bloom forecasts for Florida and Texas
Reporting:

Live on the west coast of Florida and would like to help researchers record observations during a red tide? Please consider taking this brief survey when you encounter a bloom near you.
FWC Fish Kill Hotline 800-636-0511 
Red Tide Fact Sheets:

Karenia brevis (red tide) fact sheet
Red Tides on the West Florida Shelf
Red Tide FAQs:

FWC red tide frequently asked questions
National Centers For Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) Gulf of Mexico harmful algal bloom frequently asked questions
Mote Marine red tide frequently asked questions
Blog: Frequently Asked Questions about the 2018 Red Tide Bloom
Red Tide Seafood Safety/Fishing: 

Blog: When red tide hits, is your seafood safe? A UF expert answers questions
Red Tide General Info: 

Historic frequency of red tide in Florida by year and month in Florida, FWC
Videos: 

Red Tide in Florida FWC Infographic Video (4:32)
Red Tide Facts and Myths Collier County Video (26:32)
Red Tide and Seafood Safety FWC Infographic Video (4:19)
Peer Reviewed Papers:

Literature Review of Florida Red Tide: Implications for Human Health Effects
Effects of Karenia brevis harmful algal blooms on nearshore fish communities in southwest Florida
Effects of Karenia brevis harmful algal blooms on fish community structure on the West Florida Shelf
Evaluating red tide effects on the West Florida Shelf using a spatiotemporal ecosystem modeling framework
Karenia brevis red tides, brevetoxins in the food web, and impacts on natural resources: Decadal advancements
Blue-Green Algae aka Cyanobacteria and other HABs:

Resources for understanding blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) blooms
General resources: 

University of Florida harmful algae bloom website. Information of causes, effects, solutions and FAQs of HABs
Protecting Florida Together; website with information regarding red tide/blue green algae task force, habitat restoration etc.
				
Karenia brevis aka “red tide” cells swimming! These microscopic organisms belong to the dinoflagellate phylum of algae which have appendages that allow them to move around in the water column. The word dinoflagellate is derived from the Greek dînos meaning  “whirling” and Latin flagellum meaning “whip.” K. brevis’s unique motion helps researchers identify red tide cells from other phytoplankton and algae in a water sample.

In fisheries management, setting the acceptable biological catch (ABC) is vital to ensure sustainable harvest without overexploiting fish stocks. The ABC determines how much fish can be harvested each year, and is estimated using a stock assessment model that brings together multiple data sources to estimate fish abundance and productivity.  However, in the Gulf of […]

Red Tide, Fisheries Modeling and Citizen Science: Casting a Line to Anglers and Gulf of Mexico Stakeholders for Better Data!

In-A-Pinch Preventative Measures Transfer and Retransfer: A great help to the coonties during the Atalas’ peak munching period is to transfer the bigger caterpillars from the newer growth to older leaves or to a bigger plant that is better able to withstand the chewing. The caterpillars go through several instar phases before pupating and can [&#8230;]

<h3>In-A-Pinch Preventative Measures</h3>
<h4>Transfer and Retransfer:</h4>
A great help to the coonties during the Atalas’ peak munching period is to transfer the bigger caterpillars from the newer growth to older leaves or to a bigger plant that is better able to withstand the chewing. The caterpillars go through several instar phases before pupating and can tolerate transferring them in the latter phases. Moving the Atalas to other coonties provides the newer leaves more time to grow. This maneuver usually works for me without a hitch. Sometimes there is a caterpillar that wants to move back or find another option. When I notice this, I accommodate and try another spot.
<h4>Gifting:</h4>
My last in-a-pinch option to balance the needs of the coontie and the butterfly is to gift the caterpillars to other gardeners. There are pros and cons to these preventative measures. I find that gifting has its own rewards and challenges. On the one hand you are helping another Atala admirer to have Atalas in their garden, but issues do arise. The person may have insufficient nectar and/or larval host plants. Or the caterpillars may not take to their transplant coonties. The older caterpillars may do better as they have the option to pupate at an earlier instar stage and fly off later.
A very important note if you are receiving or gifting Atala caterpillars is to provide them with sufficient coontie leaves for the journey to their new home. Keep the journey as short as possible, minutes rather than hours. Under certain circumstances, this one included, Atalas will resort to eating each other.  <a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/miamidadeco/files/2024/06/gifting-atala-cats-BR.jpg"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-medium wp-image-7891 alignright lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="" width="283" height="300" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/miamidadeco/files/2024/06/gifting-atala-cats-BR-283x300.jpg"></a>
I inquire about the new home’s resources before gifting my caterpillars and accept that some do not make it. It is not an easy decision for me to make; however, not being proactive about a population explosion can lead to them flying off after depleting your garden’s coonties. Your coonties can quit flushing out, cave into a pest infestation, and die. I have coonties that have gone over a year without flushing new growth. I have also resorted to pruning all old growth to encourage the coontie to flush out new growth, as they would naturally after a pineland fire.  Coonties are hearty plants and many rebound. It is also understandable their waiting for the coast to clear.
It is best not to take the Atalas flying off as a failure. They are alerting you to do more prep work. This is a good time to add more nectar, larval host plants, or shelter areas, while the coonties rest. You will be better prepared for the following season! Take the time to build a healthy well-balanced environment.

In-A-Pinch Preventative Measures
Transfer and Retransfer:
A great help to the coonties during the Atalas’ peak munching period is to transfer the bigger caterpillars from the newer growth to older leaves or to a bigger plant that is better able to withstand the chewing. The caterpillars go through several instar phases before pupating and can tolerate transferring them in the latter phases. Moving the Atalas to other coonties provides the newer leaves more time to grow. This maneuver usually works for me without a hitch. Sometimes there is a caterpillar that wants to move back or find another option. When I notice this, I accommodate and try another spot.
Gifting:
My last in-a-pinch option to balance the needs of the coontie and the butterfly is to gift the caterpillars to other gardeners. There are pros and cons to these preventative measures. I find that gifting has its own rewards and challenges. On the one hand you are helping another Atala admirer to have Atalas in their garden, but issues do arise. The person may have insufficient nectar and/or larval host plants. Or the caterpillars may not take to their transplant coonties. The older caterpillars may do better as they have the option to pupate at an earlier instar stage and fly off later.
A very important note if you are receiving or gifting Atala caterpillars is to provide them with sufficient coontie leaves for the journey to their new home. Keep the journey as short as possible, minutes rather than hours. Under certain circumstances, this one included, Atalas will resort to eating each other.  
I inquire about the new home’s resources before gifting my caterpillars and accept that some do not make it. It is not an easy decision for me to make; however, not being proactive about a population explosion can lead to them flying off after depleting your garden’s coonties. Your coonties can quit flushing out, cave into a pest infestation, and die. I have coonties that have gone over a year without flushing new growth. I have also resorted to pruning all old growth to encourage the coontie to flush out new growth, as they would naturally after a pineland fire.  Coonties are hearty plants and many rebound. It is also understandable their waiting for the coast to clear.
It is best not to take the Atalas flying off as a failure. They are alerting you to do more prep work. This is a good time to add more nectar, larval host plants, or shelter areas, while the coonties rest. You will be better prepared for the following season! Take the time to build a healthy well-balanced environment.

In-A-Pinch Preventative Measures Transfer and Retransfer: A great help to the coonties during the Atalas’ peak munching period is to transfer the bigger caterpillars from the newer growth to older leaves or to a bigger plant that is better able to withstand the chewing. The caterpillars go through several instar phases before pupating and can […]

How to Maintain Atala Butterflies in Your Garden Year-Round, Fourth Blog

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