Florida algae crisis: Small businesses affected by toxic algae to get federal aid

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

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

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The SBA will also set up disaster loan centers at the Lee County City/ County Annex Building and the he Stuart Air Show Office, at 1895 S.E. Flying Fortress Way. Both will open at 11 a.m. Friday, according to the release.

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

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“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.”