| The Gulf of Mexico oil spill has been prevalent in | | | | Sanibel events in the area. What about the |
| the news all summer long. Residents might | | | | reports of "dark-colored clumps of algae?" This |
| wonder how this catastrophe, also referred to as | | | | is not actually related to the oil spill. Beachgoers |
| the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, is affecting their | | | | who have noticed these clumps are actually |
| favorite vacation spots. Since Sanibel Island is | | | | filamentous blue green algae broken off from |
| obviously a beach city and part wildlife refuge, this | | | | submerged algal mats. The Sanibel Captiva |
| is surely one of the most important destinations in | | | | Conservation Foundation stated that these clumps |
| southern Florida. | | | | are not related to oil spills, nor are they harmful |
| What affect has the oil spill had on Sanibel? | | | | to the environment. These algal mats are often |
| Royal Shell Vacations, which is Sanibel Island, | | | | found in marine and freshwater conditions. |
| Florida and Captiva Island's premiere vacation | | | | These mats' suggested place of origin is the |
| rental firm, recently reported that there is no oil | | | | mouth of the Caloosahatchee River or even |
| evident anywhere near the beaches of the | | | | beyond. |
| island. As a precaution the company announced | | | | While many people are fearing the repercussions |
| a beach watch to assure residents and visitors | | | | of the oil spill, residents of Sanibel and Captiva, FL |
| that the beaches would continue to be oil free | | | | should be assured that the location is currently |
| throughout the summer. In fact, the company is | | | | not threatened by the actions that took place |
| so dedicated to resident satisfaction that it is | | | | primarily west of the state. This is important to |
| offering a special refund policy on its vacations if | | | | realize, as some vacationers may be canceling |
| any oil does wash up onto the beaches. | | | | plans to visit Sanibel Island, when in fact the |
| Sanibel Island hotels and Sanibel Island | | | | beaches are just as beautiful and safe as ever. |
| restaurants are still operating normally, as are | | | | |