Florida's red tide is the result of elevated concentrations of the microscopic alga, Karenia brevis (K. brevis). Reports of the toxic effects of red tide are significantly improved, but still persist along Florida's Gulf Coast.

EPC's Response to Red Tide

EPC has one of the longest, continuous water quality monitoring programs in the nation.  In response to the red tide event, we have increased our monitoring efforts in Lower Tampa Bay which include routine water quality monitoring, as well as benthic and seagrass monitoring.  1/24/2019 Update: No Red Tide cells were found in any of the samples collected during this reporting period.

For More Red Tide News and Information

Florida also monitors red tide concentrations through the collaborative efforts of the FWC, Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP), Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), the Florida Department of Health, Mote Marine Laboratory, the University of South Florida, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), county agencies, private non-profit agencies, and volunteers.   FWC is the official source of information regarding the status of red tide along Florida's coastline and they publish current news regarding red tide and answers to frequently asked questions.

To find out more information on red tide in Florida visit:

Red Tide Current Status