New details reveal likely cause of Fort Myers Beach fish kill

FORT MYERS BEACH, Fla. (WINK) — Fort Myers Beach officials now say they are about 90% confident a March fish kill in Buccaneer Lagoon was caused by fertilizer runoff triggered by the first major rainfall of the season.

On March 13th, a foul odor has been plaguing Fort Myers Beach residents for days along Lagoona Road as dead fish floated in waterways near their homes. Water levels have since returned to normal.

According to the Town of Fort Myers Beach, the most likely source of the fish kill is a group of apartment buildings at 4142, 4182, and 4192 Bay Beach.

However, officials say those properties now appear to be following proper fertilization practices.

Instead, the town’s Environmental Projects Manager believes the issue was likely caused by a buildup effect — fertilizer accumulating during a dry stretch and then being flushed all at once when heavy rain moved through.

At this time, no formal enforcement action is being taken. Town leaders say they are prioritizing education and prevention, starting conversations with property managers and residents to help avoid a similar event in the future.

The investigation is not officially closed yet. Officials say once follow-up water testing is completed, they expect to make that determination.

Following the incident, town staff went door-to-door along Buccaneer Lagoon, speaking with homeowners and business owners about fertilizer rules, and sent letters to vacant properties.

When fertilizer is allowed, residents must limit use and take precautions to keep it out of waterways.

Looking ahead, the town plans to launch a quarterly water testing program to monitor fertilizer levels and identify potential issues sooner.