Save the date: Save Our Water summit is Aug. 21 in Bonita Springs

Southwest Florida was the epicenter for water quality issues in Florida in 2018 when the region experienced an environmental catastrophe.

Red Tide floated in the Gulf of Mexico, while toxic blue-green algae choked canals and the Caloosahatchee River. This "perfect storm" caused harm to humans, wildlife, tourism, small businesses and the real estate industry.

Ensuring we have clean water is an ongoing challenge. The News-Press, Naples Daily News and USA TODAY—Florida Network have dedicated a team of journalists to cover the environment with a significant investment in the issues and the people tied to saving our water.

On Aug. 21 at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point, we will convene the community once again for a Save Our Water summit, featuring experts from science, business and government, as well as our award-winning journalism.