TALLAHASSEE — Florida Department of Environmental Protection is upgrading some of its technology and online information.
It should help with the state giving updated information on blue-green algae, red tide and other aspects of water quality, according to letter from FDEP Chief Science Officer Mark Rains.
The blue-green algae report has been going out weekly for years in Florida, he noted. That will be phased out on Oct. 31 in favor of a new digital dashboard at ProtectingFlorida Together.gov.
Rains states it will help bring “timely and integrated information” to Florida residents and visitors, along with other stakeholders.
“Updated daily, the dashboard combines statewide data on water quality, blue-green algae and red tide into one interactive platform,” the letter states. “It features a statewide map with current conditions, a project map highlighting ongoing restoration efforts and a resource center with fact sheets and other tools.”
Anyone can subscribe to the dashboard information to receive text alerts and emails that will be “tailored to their area of interest,” about area water quality.
Information about water quality continues to be “a priority,” he notes.
“Now this information is at your fingertips,” the letter stated. “This transition gives residents faster access to more accurate, actionable information about our waters and provides more ways to stay informed and engaged.”
Those interested in learning more, or to sign up for email or text alerts, can visit the website at ProtectingFlorida Together.gov.