7. • Manatees are protected by the Florida
manatee Sanctuary Act of 1978. Anyone
convicted of violating this state law faces a
possible maximum fine of $500.00 and/or
imprisonment for up to 60 days. Conviction
on the federal level is punishable by a fine of
up to $50,000 and/or one year in prison.
8. The Florida manatee has been listed as
an endangered species since 1967, and
is one of the most endangered marine
mammals.
9. More work needs to be done to
protect the Florida Manatee.
• The ban of boating in manatee
waters.
• More awareness to boaters and
non boaters.
• New eye catching signs.
10. “Most living manatees bear scars or
wounds from vessel strikes.” (Fish and
Wildlife Service)
11.
12. Last year 268 manatees were killed in
Florida waters, and 82 of those were
killed by boat collisions.
13. Both sides agree work is being done
in order to save the Florida Manatee.
14. Compromise
• Slower speed limits than those that
are already in place.
• Vibrant signs located around manatee
areas.
• Stricter punishments for law breakers.
