Manatees are protected by state and federal laws. The Endangered Species Act of 1973 is perhaps the most important federal wildlife law that assists in the protection of manatees and other endangered and threatened species. Under the Endangered Species Act, it is illegal to "kill, hunt, collect, harass, harm, persue, shoot, trap, wound, or capture" a member of an endangered species. Protection of critical habitat is also provided. The Manatee Mammal Protection Act of 1972 also provides federal protection for manatees and other marine mammals, including restrictions on products derived from these animals. Conviction on the federal level is punishable by a fine of up to $100,000 and / or one year in prison. The manatee is also protected by the Florida Manatee Sanctuary Act of 1978, which states: "It is unlawful for any person, any time, intentionally or negligently, to annoy, molest, harass, or distrub any manatee." Anyone convicted of violating Florida's state law faces a possible maximum fine of $1,000 and / or imprisonment for up to one year.

Establishing Laws and Guildelines In October, 1989, Florida's Governor and Cabinet directed the Florida Department of Natural Resources to work with thirteen key manatee counties toward implementing measures for reducing manatee injuries and deaths. Over eighty percent of manatee mortalities have occurred within these counties. Their waters offer important feeding, resting and migratory areas for the manatee. Both state and federal experts agree that watercraft collisions represent the greatest immediate threat to the survival of the manatee. The first task of these 13 county governments, working with the state, is to develop site specific boat speed zones to reduce this type of mortality. The second task is the development of comprehensive manatee protection plans (MPP's). Thirty-three counties have been identified as important to species recovery. These counties' MPP's will incude: An inventory of boat facilities (marinas, docks, boat ramps, dry storage areas, etc.) An assessment of boating activity patterns. Manatee sighting and mortality information. A boat facility siting plan - to determine the best areas for new marinas, boat ramps, etc. Information on aquatic preserves, outstanding Florida waters, ports, manatee refuges, and habitat protection within the county. An education and awareness program for boaters, divers, and schoolchildren, and the general public. Identification of land acquisition projects for manatee protection. An aquatic plant control plan for manatee areas. The plans must be compatible with state and local policies while addressing manatee concerns. In setting policies to safeguard manatees and their habitats, the MPP's will also have the effects of increasing boater safety, facilitating recreation planning, and protecting estuarine habitat critical to many species.

Keep A LOOKOUT!

This sign is posted on the fringe of seasonal protected areas. You will see it as you approach the areas.	This sign appears in the center of seasonal protected areas.	This sign appears in the Crystal River Sanctuary and Blue Springs Sanctuary. It means no swimming, boating, or diving.	This sign appears on the fringe of protected areas. You will see it as you leave the areas.

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