June grass update for Walton County 7/14/12:AM

0 on the June Grass Grossness Index. 

However, there is a lot of sargassum in the water. I imagine it was dragged in by the fairly strong storms we had yesterday afternoon. Sargassum won’t keep me from swimming since it isn’t slimy but you may feel otherwise. I personally like sargassum because if you look at it closely with a dive mask you can often find tiny triggerfish and even pipefish if you are really lucky.

Fishermen: there are a lot of coquina in the intertidal zone right now. I didn’t see any sand fleas but the sun was already pretty high in the sky and I don’t usually see them unless it is very early or later in the evening.

The water is a little cooler than it was in my last report, probably from the rain, but still a lovely temperature. There is a stiff breeze and the water is a bit choppy. There are also a number of thunderheads off shore, so do be mindful of them and the weather forecast for rain. Do NOT remain on the beach if you hear thunder. If you can hear thunder the storm is close enough that you can be struck by lightening. Lightening strikes are very common in this area. Don’t take any chances!

At the time this report was made the beach flags were yellow and purple, but check them again before you head to the beach.

If there isn’t a current June Grass report up on this site I suggest checking the link to local beach cams on the left side of this page. They can often give you an idea of what the water is like. It is also important to “Know Before You Go” and check local beach flags. They are updated twice daily at 9:30am and 1:30pm.

PLEASE ENJOY THE BEACH RESPONSIBLY!