Manatee Season Prompts Speed Zone Changes in Broward County Waterways

The annual pilgrimage of Florida's gentle giants has commenced, with manatee season officially in swing until March 31. As the chill sets upon aquatic realms, these serene creatures meander southward, seeking the embrace of warmer waters—a behavior that's as predictable as it is vital to their survival. Among the sanctuaries they frequent, Broward County boasts two such warm-water havens, prompting seasonal adjustments to the area's waterway velocity restrictions, according to the county's news release.

Starting last Saturday, Broward County has implemented seasonal manatee speed zones in its waterways, requiring boaters to adjust their speeds through the end of March. The County’s Natural Resources Division is urging residents and visitors to watch for manatees. They recommend wearing polarized sunglasses to spot the animals’ “footprints”—the distinctive slicks on the water’s surface that indicate a manatee is nearby.

Navigators of the County's waterways are also informed that adherence to the posted speed limits and regalements isn't merely a courtesy; it's a requirement aimed at preserving the safety of both the manatees and the boaters themselves. Boaters can further contribute to conservation by reporting sightings using the County's "I Spy a Manatee" mobile app, an ingenious tool providing maps of manatee protection zones, available on both Apple App Store and Google Play.

Representatives from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission emphasize the importance of alerting authorities at the sight of a distressed manatee. As detailed in a recent news release, concerned citizens can call the FWC's Wildlife Alert Number to report a sick, injured, or deceased manatee, and providing specific details such as the exact location and size of the manatee can be highly beneficial. It's also recommended to have photos or video of the animal to assist with identification and assessment.

As the manatee season unfolds, Broward County continues to lead the charge in safeguarding these majestic but vulnerable inhabitants of Florida's marine ecosystems.