Manatee and its two calves have been spotted and photographed within Palmetto Bay. Is this sufficient to trigger manatee protection rules by the FWC?

A new development. A manatee and its two calves have been spotted and photographed within Palmetto Bay.

Manatees have  now been documented (2-23-2019) in the C100 Canal that runs through Palmetto Bay. This may trigger FWC protection. And note - FWC is key.  FWC has the authority to place "Idle Speed / No Wake" rule. Local governments can as well, but these rules require FWC approval.  More information listed below, but first, enjoy a short video, courtesy of Craig Merwitzer, whose family lives in one of the many homes that lies adjacent to the C100.


          Manatee Protection Zones

What are Manatee Protection Rules?

Manatee protection rules are rules that are established by FWC to restrict the speed and operation of vessels where necessary to protect manatees from harmful collisions with vessels and from harassment. In areas that are especially important to manatees, the rules can prohibit or limit entry into an area as well as restrict what activities can be performed in the area. FWC is authorized to adopt these rules by the Manatee Sanctuary Act, 379.2431(2), Florida Statutes (FS). The rules appear in Chapter 68C-22 of the Florida Administrative Code (FAC). Click here for maps of these areas.

Local Government OrdinanceLocal governments can also establish manatee protection zones through the adoption of a local ordinance. These zones must be approved by FWC before they can take effect, as required by 379.2431(2)(p),FS. Local manatee protection zones cannot include waters within the main marked channel of the Florida Intracoastal Waterway or waters within 100 feet thereof.

Rationale for Reducing Vessel SpeedsThe rationale for reducing vessels speeds to reduce risks to manatees

(Underline and bold emphasis added) (SDU Editor note - please review the complete web page for all details and specifics on the FWC Manatee protection rules)

Nothing is simple. There are rules and procedures. Please review the complete FWC web page for complete (and detailed) details regarding Manatee Protection Zones, Creation of Manatee Protection Rules (CLICK HERE).

I leave you with an additional manatee video while we discuss and debate - enjoy: