Scientists: Caloosahatchee River estuary needs more freshwater

The Army Corps has been releasing pulses of freshwater at 650 cfs since October. But scientists say 800 to 1,000 cfs is the optimal range for salinity levels.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA - While the Caloosahatchee River may look nice and clear, scientists are concerned about the lack of water releases.

Adrian Allen lives at the end of a Cape Coral canal. Last summer, algae was tough on his family.

"It kind of limits what you can do outside," said Allen. "Over time it actually built up into a pretty nasty thick crust and it started smelling."

But due to changes in water management, it's a different story this year.

"It went from not being able to see the bottom to this year the water clarity has been incredible. Much better," said Allen.

But Dr. Serge Thomas, an associate professor at FGCU's water school, said looks don't tell the whole story.

"You have to keep a healthy balance in the estuaries, you don't want it to be too salty, you don't want it to be too fresh," said Thomas.