Everyone is talking about it. It’s the topic of conversation for anyone who has family, friends, property, or an upcoming vacation in southern Florida. People all over the country are seeing news broadcasts about the toxic algae bloom and the state of emergency that was recently issued for 7 southwestern Florida counties. These news stories are sparking a wave of panic with would-be vacationers, many opting to cancel their plans to visit Florida this year altogether.
Red tide, which scientists refer to as Harmful Algae Blooms (HABs), occurs when algae grows out of control and has a toxic impact on the health and well-being of everything in the region (people, marine life, and the economy). Though this naturally occurring phenomenon usually happens within the summer months, Florida’s Gulf Coast has been in red tide’s grip since October 2017. And with no real end in sight, every aspect of life in southern Florida is being affected.
County officials have removed millions of pounds of dead marine life from the shores of Florida’s most beloved beaches. Residents and tourists alike are asked to check beach reports before venturing out so that they are aware of the possibility of encountering dead fish, as well as any respiratory irritation that is being reported.
Additionally, after talking to local business owners, there is a sense that things could get a whole lot worse before they get better.
Local real estate agents have reported a decrease in the selling price of local homes, with some buyers backing out of purchasing homes in the region completely. Repeated bouts of algae bloom in the region have been flagged as the culprit, and while agents remain hopeful, prospective buyers aren’t taking a chance.
Dave Grammer, the owner of Goodfellas Cafe & Winery, says that he has seen an increase in guests to his restaurant that he knows generally dine out at coastal eateries. “Red tide is definitely affecting business for everyone in the city, there is a huge drop in tourism, and locals just don’t seem to be coming out either.”
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Kim Cressell, owner of The Reserve SRQ, says that “we’re really lucky because we’ve been here for a year and a half, and we’re noticing that our local community support is very strong, but where we are seeing a decrease is in the number of seasonal vacation rentals here on-site, because of the national media coverage of red tide in the area.”
Although each is having a different experience when it comes to the locals, one thing is for sure – the red tide is leaving its mark on the pockets of business owners who rely on tourism to get them through until the snowbirds get here.
Southern Florida’s main attraction is its location; Offering a tropical climate, endless amounts of sunshine, and countless pristine beaches. People come from all over to spend a few days in a place that we’re lucky enough to call home.
But with red tide maintaining its hold on Florida’s waterways and wildlife, more and more people are deciding to pass on their vacations here this year. Which is why it’s safe to say that there has to be a local push to keep businesses afloat through all of this.
We’re encouraging locals to get out and support your favorite businesses – coffee shops, bars, restaurants, clothing shops…While you’re out and about, spread the word that Sarasota and Bradenton are open for business by using #EatPlayLoveLocal #My941 on your favorite social channels.
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Cover photo courtesy of Pixabay
