The algae crisis is affecting many businesses bottom line across the Treasure Coast.
A motel in Jensen Beach may be hit the hardest now with seasonal customers from out of state deciding to stay away.
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Victor Zielinski from South Carolina loves the view from unit 3 at the Driftwood Motel.
"It just feels like home."
However, algae has forced him to pack his bags early and maybe never return.
"Very upsetting and there's nothing I can do about it," says Zielinski.
He points to the health concerns as the sole reason.
"Breathing problems. If I get close I'm afraid I'm going to just end up in the hospital."
He had to break the news Saturday to Driftwood's owner.
"Very painful for both of us."
"Tears came to my eyes today," says Irene Gomes owner of the Driftwood Motel.
This is the second day in a row Irene Gomes has been hit hard by out of state customers. Friday she received a letter from a family from New Jersey canceling their reservation for 2017.
It's thousands of dollars lost, but more importantly they're friends she may never see again.
"Customers have become my friends. They know my dogs. They love the river," says Gomes.
It's a tough decision for Victor. Now he will try to enjoy his home away from home until next month.
"I really feel like I should stay here, but I have to think about my health."
