Max Chesnes

THE RAYS' RAYS are swimming in the outfield

Intensifying storm to hit Gulf Coast on Friday night

In Tampa Bay, up to 3 feet of storm surge is possible.

Florida’s 3 national forests at risk of logging, new roads under Trump rollback, groups warn

As a public comment deadline nears, environmentalists warn rescinding the “Roadless Rule” could further harm Florida’s wildlife.

Fla. losing wildlife staff in droves

More than 170 employees have been lost since 2024 — about half of the state’s federal wildlife workforce.

Pinellas looks to conserve 29 acres along Boca Ciega Bay

The land deal, which includes an island and waterfront property with an aquatic habitat, could come to a vote before county leaders this year.

Wildlife agency releases list of threats

The Florida commission claims it’s why staffers used a database to search for information on outspoken activists.

Nature preserves may take hit

Weedon Isle and Shell Key are targeted in Pinellas County’s budget, as are the seasonal lifeguard programs at Fort De Soto and Sand Key.

ON A FLA. CATTLE RANCH, THIS endangered bird GETS A SHOT AT SURVIVAL

The Florida grasshopper sparrow is one of the nation's rarest birds. A research team is working to bring them back from the brink.

Business owners nabbed for scattering mothballs

The men believed black skimmers were causing them to lose up to $50,000, officials say.

Worries shared about environmental issues

One in six residents are anxious about environmental degradation. Green groups can help boost morale.

Research affirms the Rice’s whale is a unique species

As the Trump administration sows doubt about their rarity, the whales run the risk of inbreeding if the population continues to decline, researchers warn.

Mosaic among sponsors for Freedom 250 celebration

The group was created to plan and host Fourth of July events marking the country’s major milestone.

THE WORLD’S LARGEST FISH

We joined an expedition deep into the Gulf after data from a single whale shark led researchers to a remote gathering offshore.

Feds slash protections for the Gulf’s rarest whale

A key official recently cast doubt on whether the Rice’s whale is its own species, a talking point used by the oil and gas industry.

Offshore may be a key whale shark feeding ground. Have you seen them?

Scientists are urging boaters to report any sightings in the Tampa Bay region this summer.

Florida to end overseas export of manta rays

The change comes after backlash to a manta that was captured and sent to SeaWorld in Abu Dhabi.

Trump’s EPA wants to reverse toxic gas rules

Critics say it would weaken efforts to curb emissions of ethylene oxide, which is known to cause cancer.

Florida may continue allowing it

The wildlife commission votes this week on a rule that still permits companies to catch manta rays for aquariums around the world. Lawmakers are pushing back.

After marine lab fire, lawmakers, donors rally around college

USF launches an official donation fund, while state legislators representing Pinellas County are vowing to fight for funding.

A company released toxic gas for years. NO ONE STOPPED IT

The plant sterilized medical equipment with ethylene oxide in Temple Terrace. More than a dozen people now blame it for their cancers, and many are suing.

‘Super El Niño’ is possible this year

Experts are debating what it means for hurricanes in Florida. Here’s what they know so far.

Is cruise port proposal for Tampa Bay finished?

In March, Gov. Ron DeSantis spoke out against the Manatee County project. The company behind it has been silent about its plans since.

First major hurricane season outlook released

Colorado State University, which is known for its forecasting capabilities, predicts a “somewhat below-average” storm cycle.