ST. LUCIE COUNTY, Fla. -- President Barack Obama has arrived to the Treasure Coast for the weekend to spend time at the Floridian National Golf Club in Palm City.
While he is in town, many treasure coast residents are hoping he will check out another green: the green algae forming along the St. Lucie River.
Friday, The Florida Department of Environmental Protection released the test results for algae samples collected in three sites along the St. Lucie River since May 31st. None of the new samples revealed that the algae was toxic.
Test results from algae samples the previous week, however, did show there were low levels of toxins at some test sites along the river and near Port Mayaca.
Residents are hopeful the recent test results without toxins will not lessen the pressure to make the water cleaner.
Scientists also say the algae can become toxic overtime.
Friday in the Indian River Lagoon, the water appeared more brown than green, but that’s no improvement to residents who have seen how much better the water can look
“Our waterways are really a state treasure,” said resident Terrance Moore.
He’s among the thousands of residents disgusted at the sight of green algae blooms that spread throughout the river earlier this week.
Though there is good news that not all of the algae blooms are toxic, he’s not putting down his guard.
“They're saying that it’s not toxic, but I’ve seen a lot of places especially on Indian River Drive where I still wouldn’t just jump in there and start swimming,” Moore said.
Local businesses continue to post signs saying “Lake Okeechobee Releases are killing my business.”
Blue-green algae warnings are still posted at some Martin County boat ramps.
“They need to work on cleaning it up, everyone knows that,” said resident Barney Richmond.
Residents hope the President will see the signs, the algae, the brown water and hear residents’ concerns.
“Maybe if we make our case, especially letting him know hey you’re coming down here enjoying our state treasure, maybe a little more funding our way to help us take care of it would be greatly appreciated,” Moore said.
