Key West Delays Water Testing for Harbor Turbidity

City commissioners in Key West have decided to temporarily halt further water testing in the harbor. This decision comes after a series of tests conducted over the past year revealed increased turbidity, or murky water, linked to the presence of cruise ships at the popular port. The city officials voted to delay renewing an agreement with the College of the Florida Keys, which was responsible for monitoring the harbor water. Although the contract renewal has been postponed, there is a possibility that it will be revisited in early 2025, according to local media reports.

Turbidity is a measure of water clarity, influenced by the presence of silt, dirt, and organic matter. High turbidity levels can negatively affect marine life, including vital ecosystems like coral reefs and seagrass beds. Key West, located at the southernmost point of Florida, has three docking areas for cruise ships: Mallory Square, Outer Mole Pier, and Pier B. Most cruise ships dock at Mallory Square or Pier B, making the port a significant economic asset for the region, with an estimated annual economic impact of at least $85 million.

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Concerns Over Water Quality and Cruise Ships

In 2023, a turbidity monitor was installed near Mallory Square, revealing alarming spikes in sediment levels that coincided with the arrival and departure of large cruise ships. One researcher from the College of the Florida Keys noted that some sediment spikes recorded after cruise ship visits exceeded levels typically caused by hurricanes. This finding raised concerns about the impact of cruise ship traffic on the harbor’s water quality.

Despite the scientific evidence, city commissioners did not provide a specific reason for delaying the contract renewal. This decision followed a statement from a scientist at Mote Marine Lab, who questioned the testing methodology used by the college. The city initially began the water quality study as part of a broader master plan aimed at improving the overall health of the harbor. The decision to pause further testing has left many environmental advocates concerned about the potential long-term effects on marine ecosystems.

A History of Tension Between Key West and the Cruise Industry

Key West has a long-standing history of tension with the cruise industry. Over the years, the city has made several attempts to limit or ban large cruise ships from docking at its port. In 2020, a binding referendum was passed that prohibited more than 90% of large cruise ships from calling at Key West. However, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed a bill that prevented municipalities from holding referendums that interfere with commercial marine traffic, effectively nullifying the local vote.

In early 2022, an environmental movement called Safer Cleaner Ships emerged, protesting against cruise ships visiting Key West. In response to potential protests, Carnival Cruise Line temporarily removed Key West from several itineraries. The cruise line later engaged in discussions with city officials to address the concerns raised by the protests.

While no cruise ships homeport in Key West, the destination remains a popular stop for Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises. Ships scheduled to call in January 2025 include Carnival Cruise Line’s 3,600-guest Carnival Dream, Celebrity Cruises’ 2,800-guest Celebrity Silhouette, Virgin Voyages’ Valiant Lady, and Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Jade. As the debate over water quality and cruise ship traffic continues, the future of Key West’s harbor remains uncertain.