The Takeaway Message:

COVID-19 has shut down human access to many of Florida’s stunning coasts. The closures might provide some relief to these normally crowded natural areas, but humans are still leaving their mark on Florida’s waterways as an influx of disinfecting wipes clog sewer drains. 

What’s going on?

In the midst of COVID-19, state officials closed places where people might gather, including many beaches and all state parks, though some of those restrictions have since been lifted. While this may be disappointing to tourists and residents who are trying to soak up the sun, some scientists say the decreased human interaction may help water quality and wildlife in the short-term.

But while beach environments may be recharging from lack of foot traffic, the pandemic hasn’t stopped sewage spills, which are a side effect of Florida’s aging water infrastructure. The Miami Herald reported that in December, a record 126 million gallons of untreated sewage spilled into waterways and onto streets and lawns after six large-scale pipe breaks in Broward County. In March, 1.4 million gallons of sewage seeped into Biscayne Bay and other Miami waterways. The coronavirus pandemic also has officials warning residents to avoid flushing disinfecting wipes, as they could clog pipes and lead to sewage overflow.

Why it matters.

The tourism industry supports Florida’s economy, raking in $85.9 billion in total economic impact. But vacations have been postponed in the midst of COVID-19.

“Obviously in Florida, the tourism is totally shot right now,” Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said during an April 2 press conference in Tallahassee.

While closures across the state are clearly a hindrance to the economy, scientists are considering the virus’s effect on the environment. For example, decreased foot traffic means less disruption to fragile sea turtle nests. And, fewer watercraft could lower the risk of manatee boat strikes. Beach closures also have indirect effects. For example, significantly fewer people means less wastewater runoff into our waterways.

But sewage spills haven’t stopped during the pandemic, and officials are still trying to pinpoint how to solve this ongoing problem. Sewage spills are caused by clogs, rainwater overflow and aging sewer pipes, which can become degraded by corrosive material, like saltwater. Experts say this is becoming more of a problem in Florida as sea levels rise and saltwater infiltrates sewer systems.

When people swim in or drink contaminated water, or eat marine animals that have been tainted, they can get sick with diseases like cholera, dysentery, Hepatitis B and cryptosporidiosis, according to the U.S. EPA. Marine organisms can also be impacted by sewage spills as bacteria in the waste can eat up the oxygen that fish need to breathe. Sewage spills can also contribute to algal blooms and degrade water quality, which hurts corals and marine plants that depend on unhindered access to sunlight to photosynthesize.

What can I do?

  • Follow the state safer-at-home order and get familiar with specific restrictions in your area.  
  • Skim guidelines on how you can reduce your impact on Florida waterways and beaches throughout the year. 
  • Learn about common sewage problems and how to prevent clogs and damage. 

Learn more:

  • About what other types of materials besides disinfecting wipes can clog up pipes and lead to sewage messes.