the species Trichechus manatus is listed on the endangered species list. currently, tourism lobbyists in Florida are trying to repeal the endangered status of the manatee as the endangered status limits motorized recreation in Florida waters. the lobbyists cite growth of manatee population figures, though biologists say the sample areas are too narrow and do not represent the manatee population. also, with an increase in boat traffic (already the cause of 24% of manatee fatalites) growth would be further hindered.
one cause for the recent boost in manatee population in Florida was the opening of numerous power plants that dispel warm water into Florida's rivers and coastal areas. with the warm water comes greater suitability to manatees desiring heat. however, as show below, biologists predict a drastic decline in the carrying capacity of Southwest Florida waters when just one of the power plants is shut down:
with few natural predators, the manatee finds itself caught in the modern age competing with mankind for space. although power plants such as Ft. Myers have a desirable, though somewhat ironic, side effect, the plants are closing down and giving way to newer plants that do not benefit the manatee population.
mounting efforts:
the endangered status granted the manatee is protected by many acts:
"Manatees in Florida are protected by both state and federal law. They are protected by two federal laws: The Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 and the Endangered Species Act of 1973. Manatees are also protected by the Florida Manatee Sanctuary Act of 1978" (savethemanatee.org).
additionally, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has published many plans to recover the manatee population. the Service, along with Florida state officials have issued speeding limits on coastal waterways, enforcing the speeding limit with fines. also, funding has become available to purchase marine sanctuaries and continue manatee research.
the Endangered Species Act of 1973 charged states to create their own recovery plans for endangered species, with emphasis placed on measurable results. the Florida Manatee Recovery Plan is one such result of the Act of 1973.
in addition to national and statewide campaigns, many organizations exist to help the manatee. these charity-run organizations help research manatees, lobby political support for manatees, and protest development in Florida and other regions in order to prolong the life of the manatee. one such organization is listed below:
Save the Manatee Club
500 N. Maitland Ave.
Maitland, FL 32751
Phone: 407-539-0990
or 1-800-432-JOIN (5646)
Fax: 407-539-0871
Web: http://www.savethemanatee.org