All of coffee pot bayou surface is covered in it.
Ive noticed a reduction in wildlife.
What is this stuff??
It stinks, too.
It really looks like it would be harmful to fish and birds, dolphins and manatees.

The SPTO acknowledges receipt of this issue and will be issuing a work order to the appropriate crew for review or service. Please understand some issues can be more complicated than they appear on the surface. The cause and solution may involve multiple utilities and government agencies and may take more time than anticipated.

If this is a safety issue that needs to be addressed immediately, please contact SPTO at 727-893-7421 Monday-Friday from 7:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. If it is outside of our business hours, please contact the Water Resources Emergency Dispatch Line at 727-893-7261.

Thank you

The appearance of the floating mass appears to be an algae genus called lyngbya and could be lyngbya wollei mixed with shedded seagrass. This is a natural and common algae in Tampa Bay waters that can float to the surface and decompose alongside the floating seagrass.

More information on this alga is available here:

https://plants.ifas.ufl.edu/plant-directory/lyngbya-species/

Respiratory impacts are not common in Tampa Bay as any toxins are generally not aerosolized unlike red tide which is a different algae species. Strong odors and detritus can cause irritation and be generally unpleasant. The City advises the public to avoid physical contact with any algae or algae blooms. Changes in wind can quickly and unpredictably alter algae location and concentration as they naturally decompose so it is important to avoid contact.

For more information on recreational water quality, please check out our resources and most recent sampling data below. The nearest sampling location is at Northshore Beach.

https://www.stpete.org/residents/public_safety/recreational_water_quality.php

We will continue to monitor the area for changes and update accordingly. With natural events such as these, time and changes to weather patterns are the primary drivers to resolving the impacts.

Thank you. And thank you for the link.
In reading the link, it seems that the stuff isn't "good" or completely harmless. I mean, it'd be better if it didn't grow, right? Is there any thought of removing the "matts"- I guess sort of raking them up? Amsterdam has boats with big rakes at the front which they use in their canals.
Also, where do things stand with the Piney Point ponds?
Thank you!
Natalie Judge