Lake Okeechobee's Toxic Algae Blooms Threaten Florida and Could Get Worse - The New York Times.
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Toxic algae fed by agricultural fertilizers spread across the wide, shallow lake, which is the largest in the Southeast United States. The algae poisons the air, and seasonal rains threaten to swell the lake and disperse the contaminated water toward popular beaches.
Visiting Lake Okeechobee is worth it for many folks interested in fishing, nature, hiking, and other outdoor activities. It is not, however, an experience for those who wish to go swimming, wading, or otherwise come into contact with the water. The alligators alone make the lake a dangerous spot.
As a precaution, I'd say don't eat any fish from anywhere in the lake right now, said Paul Gray, an Audubon biologist who's been studying Lake O for 30 years. Even if you don't see algae in the water, there can still be toxins in the water because when the algae dies, the toxins remain.
The Okeechobee Utility Authority usually pulls 2.5 million gallons per day from the lake. They can also pull from the Rim Canal nearby as a backup option. In about 15 to 20 minutes, raw lake water is drinkable.
Lake Okeechobee is known for its superior fishing for Large Mouth Bass and Speckled Perch. Each year the lake is visited by thousands of anglers and water fowl hunters to enjoy one of our natural resources. Visitors also visit Lake Okeechobee to photograph the flora and fauna and breathtaking views of the area.
The water is dark water due to at least two factors: naturally occurring tannins and “muck”. 1. Naturally occurring tannins from decaying organic matter and tree roots create a tea-like color and clarity in the water.
In and around Lake Okeechobee, you can find various water and wading birds, fish, amphibians, reptiles, and mammals. The lake's diverse wildlife makes it a prime habitat for many of the snakes found in Florida. South Florida is home to 34 of the 46 snake species native to the state as well as 3 non-native species.
Stay a safe distance from the shoreline (15 to 20 feet; 4.5 to 6 meters) and do not swim, snorkel, or dive where prohibited - in any canal, pond, freshwater lake, marked channel, or boat basin inside the park. Prevent small children and pets from approaching shorelines or basking alligators or crocodiles.
Florida's lakes are placid and peaceful bodies of water. The calm, fresh lakes at Lake Louisa, Alfred B.Maclay Gardens, Lake Manatee and other state parks let you relax and enjoy the environment around you. Whatever kind of water you choose, come for a nice and invigorating swim at a Florida state park near you.