The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has proposed a significant increase in protected areas for the Florida manatee, potentially doubling the existing critical habitat designations to nearly 1.9 million acres.
The proposal, spurred by a 2022 lawsuit from conservation groups, aims to enhance protections for the threatened species in areas ranging from Wakulla Springs in Northwest Florida to the upper St. Johns River in Northeast Florida.
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The expansion focuses on providing long-term warm-water refuges, such as natural springs, and nearby foraging areas crucial for manatees’ survival, particularly during colder months. This comes in the wake of alarming manatee mortality rates in recent years, primarily attributed to starvation caused by the loss of seagrass beds.
The proposed rule highlights the need to address threats like declining water quality and flow in natural springs, as well as harmful algae blooms impacting seagrass. It suggests potential protective measures, such as establishing minimum flows and levels for waterways, restoring springs, and improving water quality.
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The 12 targeted areas across Florida include coastal and inland waterways vital to manatee populations. If finalized, this expanded critical habitat designation would require federal agencies to consult with the Fish and Wildlife Service to ensure projects in these areas do not harm or destroy crucial manatee habitats.
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