Okaloosa County staff, the City of Fort Walton Beach and the Department of Health launched an immediate on-site investigation Sunday into an abnormal discoloration and odor in Cinco Bayou, also known as Five Mile Bayou, county officials said.
- The investigation began on Aug. 2 in response to reports from residents and focuses on the section of the bayou between Beal Parkway and Eglin Parkway.
Multiple water samples have been collected and are being tested, according to the county. Several agencies are working to rule out various causes until the source of the problem is identified. Officials said they are aware the situation has raised concerns among nearby residents and are working to find solutions.
Okaloosa County Commissioner and Board Chairman Trey Goodwin, who has lived on the bayou his entire life, is focused on addressing the issue, the county said.
“The health and safety of our residents is our primary concern,” Goodwin said. “I encourage residents in the area to exercise caution before swimming, fishing or coming into physical contact with the water in this part of the bayou until we determine what is causing this issue.”
The county said it will provide updates as they become available.
