‘Red Tide’ Imperils Southwest Florida Economy

A new study quantifies the potential economic losses that would result from another algae bloom.

1 minute read

January 19, 2024, 5:00 AM PST

Dead fish washed up on Florida beach during 2018 'red tide' algae bloom event.

Dead fish washed up on Florida beach during 2018 algae bloom event. | geraldmarella / Adobe Stock

Poor water quality is endangering more than $30 billion in economic assets in Southwest Florida, according to a new study, lending increased urgency to efforts to improve the quality of coastal waters. In a story for Fox 4, Mahmoud Bennett writes,

“The analysis, which was prepared by Greene Economics LLC, indicates that for the coastal economy alone, a detrimental water event, such as the algal bloom situation in 2018, could result in $3 billion in losses for Lee County, $1.7 billion for Collier, and $466 million for Charlotte County.”

The 2018 algae bloom killed off over 4 million pounds of local fish. A similar event could jeopardize tens of thousands of jobs in the region.

FULL STORY: STUDY: Poor water quality could cost Southwest Florida billions of dollars

Tuesday, January 16, 2024 in Fox 4

Environment Florida Red Tide Algae Bloom Water Quality

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

Start Learning

Advertise with us

Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools

This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.