Brackish Water Approaches Sarasota Coast, Beaches Remain Open Amid Concerns
Despite an increase in brackish water along Sarasota County’s coast, beaches remain open, according to the Florida Department of Health (FDOH). Nokomis Beach and North Jetty Beach received moderate bacterial grades after elevated levels of enterococcus bacteria were detected in water samples taken on Monday.
Enterococci, which can indicate possible fecal contamination, raise concerns about water quality, particularly following sewer spills combined with severe weather and high temperatures. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is monitoring the situation, with test results from a North Jetty water sample still pending.
Other local beaches have maintained a “good” bacterial grade, with enterococcus levels remaining low. However, the poor water quality stems from a sanitary sewer overflow caused by Hurricane Debby. The storm led to record rainfall, overwhelming the sewer collection system and causing sewage spills in several areas.
In Manatee County, residents faced additional challenges as an emergency spillage release from Lake Manatee’s dam was announced too late for evacuation. Contaminated water, including untreated wastewater, spilled into rivers and streams due to flooding and power failures at lift stations.
Meanwhile, Charlotte County is grappling with the aftermath of Hurricane Debby, which has stressed aquatic species and depleted oxygen levels. Environmental staff continue efforts to manage the impact, though the situation remains challenging.
Officials urge residents to avoid contact with the water and refrain from touching dead aquatic wildlife as water systems gradually recover from the storm.
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