Red tide is a natural occurrence that goes way back to the 1800s. However, according to recent studies, this event occurring more frequently. This is most likely due to climate changes and agricultural pollution from commercial farming and landscaping operations. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, red tide accounts for approximately 82 million dollars worth of annual loss in tourism industries within the United States. Red tide occurs when microscopic algae- dinoflagellates (producers of oxygen in the ocean and freshwater)- grows out of control. The overgrowth of the algae blooms Karenia Brevis is what gives surface of water a deep red appearance. Red tide generally start about 40-80 miles offshore in the Gulf of Mexico and slowly moves with ocean currents along Florida’s west coast The more intense bloom development occurs during September – February and can last 18 months or longer.