State OKs greenbacks to fight red tide

Red tide has not only entered canals, coves and bays along the Gulf Coast — it’s also entered the national conversation, much to the detriment of Florida businesses that derive much of their revenue from tourism, fishing and other aquatic activities.

The images of dead fish clogging up waterways by the thousands aren’t a good look, especially during the height of summer when tourism already tends to be sluggish. Dolphins, sea turtles and manatees have also been hit hard by red tide, which is caused by algae blooms and occurs somewhat regularly in Florida — but the 2018 version is the worst in more than a decade and has led to a perception in the national media that it’s not safe to visit Florida’s Gulf Coast communities.