Erin Brockovich Sounds Alarm on Florida’s Toxic Water and Cancer Concerns

Empowering Communities to Drive Change

SATELLITE BEACH, FL — Renowned environmental advocate Erin Brockovich and water expert Bob Bowcock visited several Florida communities grappling with serious water quality concerns. Their tour included Southeastern Fort Pierce, White City, Indian River Drive, Satellite Beach, and St. Lucie County, where they provided guidance on environmental advocacy and encouraged residents to continue defending their natural resources.

In Brevard County, alarming levels of PFAS chemicals (PFOA and PFOS) were discovered in groundwater, reclaimed water, and sewage during independent water testing. These toxic substances were found in especially high concentrations near Patrick Air Force Base, raising concerns among nearby neighborhoods like South Patrick Shores, where residents have unearthed burnt military debris in their yards. With over 800 reported cancer cases and ongoing PFAS contamination from three active military installations, local communities are increasingly anxious about long-term health risks.

To address these fears, residents engaged directly with experts, including Erin Brockovich, who spent six hours answering questions, discussing exposure reduction strategies, and calling for stronger regulations to protect public health.

In St. Lucie County, an unusually high number of glioblastoma cases—a rare and aggressive brain cancer—has caused further alarm. Brockovich met privately with impacted families to listen to their stories and discuss next steps. She also addressed the environmental impact of toxic blue-green algae blooms, fueled by discharges from Lake Okeechobee, which continue to affect the St. Lucie and Caloosahatchee Rivers.

Communities across Florida remain committed to the fight for clean water and environmental justice, inspired by the leadership and mentorship of Brockovich and Bowcock.