Residents and visitors in Hardee County, Florida, are being urged to avoid contact with the waters of Peace River in Wauchula after the detection of blue-green algae. The Florida Department of Health in Hardee County issued a formal warning on June 3, 2026, following the discovery of the algae bloom earlier in the week.
Health and Safety Guidelines
Authorities are currently testing water samples to determine if the bloom is releasing harmful toxins. In the meantime, they emphasize the importance of caution, as environmental conditions can change rapidly. Blue-green algae, a type of bacteria found naturally in Florida’s freshwater, can proliferate under hot, sunny, and nutrient-rich conditions, forming thick mats or scum on the water’s surface.
Due to the potential health risks, the state has outlined strict safety measures. People are advised not to drink, swim, or wade in areas where algae is visible. Watercraft, including jet skis, should avoid the affected areas. If contact with the algae occurs, individuals should wash their skin and clothing with clean water and soap immediately.
Impact on Pets and Wildlife
The algae can be particularly dangerous to pets and local wildlife. Pet owners are advised to keep animals away from the shoreline and to use alternative water sources. The river water should not be used for cooking or washing dishes, as boiling does not eliminate the toxins.
Fishing and Consumption Guidelines
Fishing is still permitted, but with precautions. Consuming fillets from healthy fish caught in the river is considered safe if the guts are discarded, and the fillets are thoroughly rinsed and cooked. However, eating shellfish from the affected waters is strictly prohibited.
Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems, should avoid the area entirely, as they may be more susceptible to illness even at low toxin levels.
Monitoring and Reporting
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection is monitoring the bloom and will publish lab results on the Protecting Florida Together website and the DEP Algal Bloom Dashboard. Residents can report sightings of blooms to the DEP at 1-855-305-3903. Health symptoms related to water exposure should be reported to the Florida Poison Information Center at 800-222-1222, while pet health concerns should be directed to local veterinarians. Sick or dead fish can be reported to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission at 800-636-0511. For general inquiries about river conditions, contact the Hardee County health department at 863-773-4161.
Original reporting: Tampa Free Press — read the source article.
