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Naples-area beaches mostly spared of expected algae influx
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Naples-area beaches with their normal seaweed lines were packed Saturday despite concern about a potential onslaught of marine algae.
Coastal experts had predicted that onshore winds could increase the effects of a nontoxic algae, called Trichodesmium, this weekend.
Coastal environmental experts warned that it that can look like saw dust or an oil slick, and that it can produce odors and turn the water brown.
Once the algae starts to decompose, wind and waves can create a dirty-looking foam on the water’s surface, according to the county’s pollution control and prevention department.
However, as of Saturday afternoon, Naples-area beaches were mostly spared of the substance.
“It was not as bad as they said it would be,” said Fred Simmons, 29, as he enjoyed the beach near Naples Pier with his family.
The Naples resident said last weekend the water at Keewaydin Island was disgusting.
Many beachgoers didn’t notice much of a difference around the Naples Pier nor at Lowdermilk Park beaches.
“I didn’t really see anything,” said Peter Kalvin, 42, of East Naples. “I just noticed regular old seaweed.”
Beaches wouldn’t be tested this weekend, officials said.
“It is nothing like red tide,” Rhonda Watkins, a senior environmental specialist with Collier County’s natural resources department, said Friday.
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