FT. PIERCE, Fla. -- The St. Lucie County tourism board just launched a new social media campaign to lure visitors to the area.
The news comes in the wake of a lingering algae problem in Martin County that has garnered international media attention.
Charlotte Bireley is the county's tourism manager.
She said, "Let everyone know our waters are clean right now."
Bireley wants residents to post pictures on social media using the hashtags #LoveTheFort or #LoveThePort .
Bireley said the campaign really relies on locals.
She wants residents to serve as the social media spokespeople for St. Lucie County.
"We wanted to rally our residents-- to have this message out there and we want it to come from residents," she said.
Kendra Paries said it's a great and easy way to market the county.
"It's a click of a button," she said.
Kendra posts photos to social media at least once a day.
"It's a great way to get people to see what we have to offer," she said.
Clive Daem hopes it brings more people to his businesses.
Clive runs On The Edge Bar and Grill and Dockside Inn.
He said he has had some cancelations at his hotel because of concerns over algae.
"I think it's a good move by the county to show what the place really is-- to show how good the water is and the beaches," Clive said.
Those who use the hashtag will be entered into a contest through the county.
The winner will receive an all expense paid "staycation" in St. Lucie County.
