Summary by FWC: Integration of Research and Information to Reduce Watercraft-Related Manatee Mortality via Avoidance Technology Solutions

Manatee researchers and wildlife managers continue to explore alternatives for optimally protecting manatees by means of regulatory approaches as well as technological solutions. Florida first began regulating boat speeds as a way of reducing risks to manatees over 30 years ago. Various types of manatee-protection zones have been established throughout Florida with the understanding that reducing speed reduces risk. Boat speed limits are believed to reduce risks to manatees in three primary ways: 1) greater reaction time for the boat operator; 2) greater reaction time for the manatee; and 3) reduced severity of injuries in the event a manatee is hit by a boat. The FWC, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and a broad group of stakeholders support the reduction of boat speeds in specific areas as an appropriate, reasonable and defensible management action. FWC staff recently reviewed current research and other available information that forms the basis for reducing boat speed limits as a method for reducing risks to manatees. The results of this review are presented in the following paper that was published in a peer-reviewed scientific journal: Calleson, C.S. and Frohlich, R.K. 2007. “Slower boat speeds reduce risks to manatees.” Endangered Species Research, v. 3, pp. 295-307 (http://www.int-res.com/articles/esr2007/3/n003p295.pdf). Excerpts from this publication have also been incorporated within this update.