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Algae-affected businesses in Collier and Lee counties can get federal loans

Ali Schmitz
Treasure Coast Newspapers
A tri-colored heron wades in an algal bloom along the wall at the Franklin Locks in Alva on Monday, June 25, 2018. An algal bloom has pushed up against the lock. Reports of algae on the river have been reported since last week. Most reports are east of the Franklin Locks. Some are worried that it might move west towards the estuary. The DEP is testing the algae later this week to see if it is toxic.

The U.S. Small Business Administration will offer low-interest loans to small companies affected by blue-green algae blooms, according to a news release from the SBA. 

The Economic Injury Disaster Loans are available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small aquaculture businesses and private nonprofit organizations affected by toxic algal blooms in Collier and Lee counties.

Businesses in nearby Charlotte, Glades, Hendry, Martin, Okeechobee, Palm Beach and St. Lucie counties also can apply for the loans.

People can apply for the loans though the SBA’s website. 

More: What's the difference between red tide and blue-green algae?

The SBA also will set up disaster loan centers at the Lee County City/ County Annex Building and the Stuart Air Show Office. Both will open at 11 a.m. Friday, Sept. 7, according to the release.

The loans come after a request from Gov. Rick Scott's office last month. 

Related:State to give another $3M to counties impacted by toxic algal bloom

Also:Francis Rooney asks SBA for disaster declaration, aid to businesses

And:How small businesses hurt by red tide can get help

“The SBA is strongly committed to providing the people of Florida with the most effective and customer-focused response possible to assist small businesses with federal Economic Injury Disaster Loans,” SBA Administrator Linda McMahon said. “Getting businesses and communities up and running after a disaster is our highest priority at SBA.”

Disaster Loan Center

Where: Lee County City/ County Annex Building, 1825 Hendry St., Fort Myers, FL 33901

Opens: Friday, Sept. 7. at 11 a.m.

Hours: Mondays-Fridays, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

In case you missed it:Red tide counts falling after Tropical Storm Gordon

More:After months of stinky fish, Collier to start canal cleanups

More:Dead zone conditions being reported in Gulf due to red tide