A Stunning Wildlife Recovery: Hotdog and Donatello’s Journey Back to the Gulf
The Gulfarium CARE Center released two rehabilitated loggerhead sea turtles, Hotdog and Donatello, at Inlet Beach after both recovered from fishing‑hook injuries. Crowds gathered to watch the pair return to the Gulf, marking another successful rescue effort supported by the St. Joe Community Foundation and local wildlife partners.
Lionfish Tournament Makes Massive Impact On Gulf Ecosystem
More than 20,000 invasive lionfish were removed from Gulf waters during the Emerald Coast Open in Destin-Fort Walton Beach.
SS United States Toxic Final Voyage to the Depths
As Okaloosa County prepares to sink the SS United States, a debate is surfacing over whether the historic vessel will become a thriving reef or a toxic legacy beneath the Gulf.
Emotional Farewell, Powerful Future: The SS United States to Become a Massive Gulf Reef
The historic SS United States is set for a dramatic transformation as Okaloosa County prepares to sink the legendary liner and create the world’s largest artificial reef.
Okaloosa approves millions more for SS United States reef project
The amendment brings the project budget to $10.18 million — but officials say no local tax dollars will be used as remediation nears completion in Mobile.
Okaloosa advances East Pass dredging project with new state grant
Okaloosa County will use a $320,000 state grant and matching funds to begin design and permitting for a major dredging expansion in East Pass, with construction targeted for 2027 or later.
Invest 93L brings rain, storm risk to Okaloosa County as system moves through Gulf
A tropical disturbance in the Gulf is expected to bring 2–4 inches of rain, choppy surf, and possible flash flooding to Okaloosa County, though significant development remains unlikely.
Tropic Watch: Okaloosa officials monitoring possible development
A storm brewing in the Gulf may soon earn a name—find out what forecasters are saying and how local officials are preparing.
Tropical system could develop in Gulf ahead of July 4, Okaloosa officials monitoring
Public safety officials in Okaloosa County are urging residents to stay weather-aware as a tropical disturbance could form offshore during the July 4 holiday.
UPDATE – Tragedy in Destin: Parents Drown, Son Saved by Heroic Beachgoer
Two people died in an apparent drowning on May 27 near SunDestin Resort in Destin, marking the first confirmed drowning fatalities of the 2025 summer season in Okaloosa County.
