Calusa Waterkeeper to premiere film, host panel discussion
The Calusa Waterkeeper will virtually premiere the documentary “Waterborne,” followed by a panel discussion, on Nov. 11 at 7 p.m. for free.
“Waterborne” is a film that explores the public health impact of harmful algal blooms and waterborne containments. Hear from scientific experts and officials on how Florida’s policies fail to reduce the occurrence of HABs and bacteria contamination and inadequately protect the public from exposure.
The panel discussion will feature:
– David A. Davis, research assistant professor of neurology and associate director of the Brain Endowment Bank at the University of Miami’s Miller School of Medicine
– Michael Parson, professor at Florida Gulf Coast University’s Water School and Florida Blue-Green Algae Task Force member
– Richard Whitman, state science officer with the Democratic Environmental Caucus of Florida
– R. Grace Zhai, professor in the Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology at the University of Miami’s Miller School of Medicine
In addition to the panel speakers, contributors to the documentary included researchers Paul Alan Cox, Zoraida Diaz-Perez, J. Glenn Morris Jr. and Michael Mullan, along with policymakers Chauncey Goss (South Florida Water Management District), Merritt Matheson (city of Stuart), Kevin Anderson (city of Fort Myers) and Nikki Fried (Florida Commissioner of Agriculture).
“Knowing what is in our water allows citizens to make more informed decisions about their health,” Calusa Waterkeeper John Cassani said. “We are committed to providing the community with expert knowledge, science and data to inform the public and policymakers. The ‘Waterborne’ film showcases the scientific research and how Florida’s policies are not working well enough to restore water bodies or protect its citizens.”
For more information or to register, visit calusawaterkeeper.org/waterborne.