Water Quality
Established in 1998, the Florida Oceanographic Water Ecosystem Surveys (FLOWSS) program assesses the trends and changes in water quality throughout the St. Lucie Estuary (SLE) and southern Indian River Lagoon (IRL).
Our volunteer citizen scientists record water temperature, salinity, dissolved…
Water Quality After Hurricane Ian
Our most recent water quality report grade is a harsh reminder that our water quality is directly impacted by human and natural activities.
Water Quality Standards for Cyanotoxins
Despite EPA recommendations, Florida has yet to develop or implement state-specific water quality standards for cyanotoxins. We urge the EPA to use its authority under the Clean Water Act to establish these standards for Florida until the state submits and the EPA approves its own.
Water releases from Lake Okeechobee to continue through March 29
Water releases from the lake will continue through March 29 followed by a two-week break. However, environmentalists said it is not enough time for the fragile St. Lucie Estuary and its marine fisheries to recover.
Water Resources Development Act Updates
On October 23, President Trump signed the America’s Water Infrastructure Act of 2018, also known as the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) 2018.
Water samples from two counties show blue-green algae has returned to Lake Okeechobee
Blue-green algae is showing up yet again in Lake Okeechobee. Samples taken from lake water in two counties this week showed the presence of the harmful bacteria.
Waters at Port Mayaca Lock showed toxin levels 60 times what the EPA considers safe
Algal blooms that are harmful to humans and animals have been building up at the gates of Port Mayaca. Water samples taken in the area at the end of June, showed toxin levels 60 times what the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency considers safe to touch.
Weather
Click here to view current conditions at the Coastal Center
Click here to view current conditions at the House of Refuge…
Is wet weather in South Florida impacting Lake Okeechobee water levels?
The rain has been coming down all throughout the Sunshine State, so what impact will that have water levels at Lake Okeechobee?
Wetland Conservation in Florida: Habitats for Fishes and Fowl
Explore the history and importance of wetlands in the Sunshine State and measures to conserve what remains of these special places.
What is a Mangrove/Can Mangroves Save the World?
Dr. Lorae Simpson sat down with Nicholas D’Alessandro, host of the Wait Five Minutes podcast to talk all about mangroves, the different types that can be found in our subtropical ecosystem and the interesting role they play in our environment.
What's the state of Florida's water quality after Hurricane Ian, Nicole?
Executive Director and CEO of the Florida Oceanographic Society, Mark Perry, discusses the water quality of Lake Okeechobee and the estuaries following this summer's rainy season.
WHAT THEY ARE SAYING: Environmental Leaders Applaud Governor Ron DeSantis’ Continued Environmental Commitment through the Framework for Freedom Budget
Governor Ron DeSantis signed the Framework for Freedom Budget for Fiscal Year 2023-24, which includes over $3.8 billion for Florida’s environment and reinforces the state’s commitment to Everglades restoration, water quality protections, vital land acquisitions, and resilience of inland and coastal…
What would discharges mean for Martin County?
People in and around Martin County are anxiously awaiting whether the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will announce discharges from Lake Okeechobee to the St. Lucie Estuary.
Who We Are
Florida Oceanographic Society is a non-profit organization founded in 1964 with the mission to inspire environmental stewardship of Florida's coastal ecosystems through education, research and advocacy.
Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center is a 57-acre marine life nature center located on…
Why new way to measure Lake Okeechobee levels may be confusing
Out at Lake Okeechobee, there is visible blue-green algae on both the lake side and canal side of the Port Mayaca Lock.
Wonder in the Waves Book Signing
Join us for the launch and signing of author Jennifer Collins' newest book, Wonder in the Waves.
World Ocean Day Beach Cleanup - FULL
Celebrate World Oceans Day with a beach cleanup at Jensen Beach. Join us as we put our stewardship into action.
