RED TIDE WORKSHOP - OVERVIEW
Join leading researchers and local experts to address the
scientific, economic and human health effects of Red Tide.
YOU will work to create an action plan to address these issues.
Support the economic and environmental health of the
Gulf of Mexico.
LOCAL EFFORTS IN COLLIER COUNTY
Collier County Pollution Control and Prevention Department (CCPCPD) coordinates a Red Tide monitoring program, which includes regular sample collection along the County's beaches that are shipped to the Florida Marine Institute for analysis.
Pollution Control Department maintains a Red Tide Hot Line at 239-732-2591 for reporting the latest conditions and which beaches are affected 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The Red Tide Hot Line also offers information on what Red Tide is and its effects on Health.
COMMUNITY SOLUTIONS TO RED TIDE - THE RED TIDE ALLIANCE
The Red Tide Alliance (RTA) is a public/private partnership between four organizations committed to educating the public about the effects of the Florida red tide and other harmful algal blooms (HABs). Routine sampling and testing of Gulf waters, along with monitoring, research, and mitigating adverse effects provide the basis of their work. Information provided also includes answers to public health questions. RTA also is working to insure that an effective long-range plan is being developed that provides specific goals and accountability. RTA also insures that communications to the scientific, State and local government, legislative and business community about Red Tide and other HABs is clear, concise and effective. The Alliance consists of four entities:
- State of Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's Florida Marine Research Institute which is the State Agency responsible for the study of HAB
- Mote Marine Laboratory which is a not-for-profit marine research laboratory
- Solutions To Avoid Red Tide (START) which is a statewide not-for-profit citizen organization several local chapters dedicated to funding and promoting efforts for the prevention, control and mitigation of Red Tide and other HABs
- Florida Department of Health, which focuses on public health and safety by assisting with continuous beach condition reports
