Hardee County health officials are telling people to stay out of the water at Peace River in Wauchula after spotting blue-green algae earlier this week.
The Florida Department of Health in Hardee County issued a formal public warning on June 3, 2026, confirming that water samples are currently being tested in a state lab. While scientists are still working to determine if this specific bloom is releasing dangerous toxins, authorities say environmental conditions can shift rapidly and are urging everyone nearby to play it safe.
Blue-green algae is actually a type of bacteria naturally found in Florida’s freshwater. When the weather gets hot and sunny and the water stays calm and rich in nutrients, these organisms reproduce quickly. They can quickly form thick, smelly floating mats, green scum, or foam that looks like spilled paint on the river’s surface.
Because these blooms can produce toxins harmful to people, pets, and local wildlife, the state has put out a strict list of safety rules for the area.
Residents and visitors should not drink, swim, or wade in any part of the river where algae is visible, and watercraft like jet skis should stay out of the area entirely. If you accidentally touch the algae or notice the water smells bad or looks discolored, wash your skin and clothing immediately with clean water and soap.
Pets and livestock are especially vulnerable, and the state warns that these waters are currently unsafe for animals. Pet owners need to keep their animals away from the shoreline and find alternative water sources. Furthermore, do not use the river water to cook or wash dishes, as boiling the water will not destroy the toxins.
Fishing is still allowed, but with precautions. Eating fillets from healthy fish caught in the river is safe, provided you discard the guts, rinse the fillets thoroughly with clean tap or bottled water, and cook them all the way through. However, eating shellfish from the affected water is completely prohibited.
The state noted that sensitive groups—including children, the elderly, and anyone with a compromised immune system—can get sick even when toxin levels are low, and they should avoid the area completely.
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection is tracking the bloom and will post the final lab results on the Protecting Florida Together website and the DEP Algal Bloom Dashboard.
If you see a bloom, you can report it to the DEP at 1-855-305-3903. Anyone experiencing health symptoms after touching the water should call the Florida Poison Information Center at 800-222-1222, while pet health issues should be directed to a local veterinarian. Sick or dead fish can be reported to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission at 800-636-0511. For general health questions about the river conditions, the Hardee County health department can be reached directly at 863-773-4161.
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