Agricultural runoff. Global warming. Phosphate mine and lake overflow. Refuse from cruise ships. Over-fishing. Inadequate septic systems. Toxins. Industrial waste ...
From urbanization to fertilization: everyone has their own theory of what causes Florida’s red tide – called a Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) by the scientists who are investigating it.
But what really is causing the unique HABs along Florida’s Gulf Coast? Are there ways to predict or even prevent red tide?
And what are researchers, citizens, and businesses doing to circumvent this crisis in the seas?
The Essential Image Source Foundation (EISF) explores this natural yet noxious phenomenon with Solutions to Avoid Red Tide (START) in a High Definition (HD) documentary.
This unprecedented partnership examines the impact of HABs on human health, industry and the environment. Do the irritating effects of the red tide microorganism – Karenia brevis – have long-lasting health risks? Is the presence of Karenia brevis in the estuaries impacting spawning in Florida’s vital fisheries? How can we mitigate the red tide’s negative effects on industry – such as recreational and commercial fishing, retail, outdoor and recreational sports, hospitality and tourism?
In addition, EISF and START delve in to what is being done by scores of scientists each day to understand what causes these seemingly unpredictable blooms. What research and technology is being used to forecast and alleviate this complicated HAB? What is still needed? And what surprising positive benefits and discoveries have been associated with the red tide, as well?
EISF and START are joined by Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium, Florida’s Fish and Wildlife Research Institute, and the NOAA Coastal Center for Fisheries and Habitat Research in collaboration on this vital presentation which enlightens, informs, and motivates viewers to seek solutions to the dilemma of Florida’s annual red tide occurrence.
The documentary takes advantage of immersive HD technology which features superior image resolution, even in turbid and low-light settings – making it ideal for the marine environment. Utilizing stunning HD aerials and satellite imagery to microscopic close-ups, the film will give the viewer an intimate look at Karenia Brevis: from its minute features to the massive consequences it creates on Florida’s coastal communities; while exploring the positive and innovative approaches used to protect the legacy of clean, blue waters along 
Florida’s Gulf Coast today.
For more information, see "Red Tide High Definition Documentary Production Launched" under EISF.org News.