Muddy Waters: The Dangers of Lake Okeechobee’s Discharges Affecting Local Business Owners and Customers Alike

Diver Russell Singson, the owner of Barracuda Dive Service in Stuart, is facing a decline in business due to the murky waters caused by discharges from Lake Okeechobee. The water has become so muddy that visibility has decreased significantly, making it difficult for his team to clean boats efficiently. This has resulted in smaller paychecks as they are unable to service as many boats in a day.

Singson shared that sometimes they have had to completely take off work because the water is so murky that they can’t see anything underwater. About 50 boats are currently waiting for cleaning services, putting a strain on the business. In response to the unclear water, Singson and his team are taking extra precautions with sanitation after diving to avoid infections.

At At the Helm Training, located down the St. Lucie River, operations manager Nancy Husk expressed concern about the impact of the discharges on their bookings for trainings. She mentioned that their bookings have decreased by 50% compared to the previous year due to concerns about water cleanliness. Customers are apprehensive about being in the water, especially after recalling the severe algae bloom in 2018.

Husk expressed worry about the future if