A team of scientists from Louisiana is in the Gulf of Mexico right now gathering data on what has become known as “the dead zone.” It’s a layer of saltwater with such low oxygen levels that it can’t support marine life. Some computer models show this season’s “dead zone” may be the largest ever measured. Bobbie O’Brien reports.

Tomato growers and packers could soon receive compensation for the recent salmonella scare. WGCU’s Luis Hernandez reports.

In 2006 four divers died in the Florida Keys during the state’s 2-day mini lobster season. The 2008 season is this Wednesday and Thursday. A new initiative aims to make these mini-seasons safer. WGCU’s Valerie Alker reports.

Homeowners can get free energy inspections from their utility companies. But as Lynn Hatter reports, making a home more energy efficient doesn’t have to break the bank- it can be as simple as doing some gardening.

Butterfly lovers from across the state are gathering in Miami this weekend to talk about saving a number of different dying species. The Miami Blue Butterfly is at the top of the list. WGCU’s Luis Hernandez reports.

An economic slowdown tends to spook the retail industry. In a sluggish economy people stop spending and that affects businesses’ bottom lines. As James Call tells us, consumers are starting to see the impact right on their doorstep.

A state lawmaker from South Florida wants to stop managers of Florida's pension fund from investing billions of dollars in the types of commodities markets that could contribute to the soaring price of gasoline. Doug Phillips reports.

Michelle Obama was in Fort Myers Thursday morning for a sold out fundraiser. The wife of the presumed Democratic presidential candidate spoke to about five hundred people at the Broadway Palm Dinner Theater. With the exception of one writer from the News Press – reporters were barred from the event. WGCU’s Valerie Alker was there, but not inside, and has this report…

National Geographic “Explorer in Residence” Dr. Sylvia Earle is in Sarasota this week receiving an award from the Mote Marine Laboratory. The award, named for Mote’s founding director, Eugenie Clark, was given to Earle for her decades of exploration in the field of marine science. WGCU’s John Davis spoke with Dr. Earle.

Faculty from Florida Gulf Coast University returned from a trip to the United Kingdom this week, after working out an arrangement with a university in Wales providing faculty swaps and study abroad opportunities for students. WGCU's John Davis has more.