Hurricane Ian's storm surge loaded St. James City's Galt Preserve with nutrients that act as food for harmful algae, sucking the oxygen out of the water and producing toxins.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is investigating after a boater in St. James City crashed into a boat lift, causing a boat to partially sink on Thursday night.
One group of friends based in St. Petersburg traveled to St. James City in South Pine Island after pooling their gas money, baking home-cooked meals and collecting supply donations from neighbors.