You are here

Home » Everglades National Park Works to Control Boaters' Speed To Protect Manatees

Everglades National Park Works to Control Boaters' Speed To Protect Manatees

Share

Published Date

February 20, 2010

Markers and speed limit signs are being installed in Chokoloskee Bay at Everglades National Park to protect manatees. USGS photo.

With hopes of reducing collisions between boaters and manatees, officials at Everglades National Park are establishing speed limits in Chokoloskee Bay near Chokoloskee Island. Sixteen markers will be installed along with signs that identify new boating speed zone, park officials announced the other day.

This area of the park was designated an "Area of Inadequate Protection" by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service as part of a settlement agreement reached between the USFWS and The Save the Manatee Club in 2001, a park release explained. This settlement required the USFWS to: 1) improve or enlarge manatee protection zones; 2) erect channel markers clearly designating areas where boaters must observe speed limits; and 3) enforce the limits.

The designation of the bay as an AIP had a number of outcomes that included stoppage of construction projects in the bay until this designation was removed. When the new markers are installed, the National Park Service expects the AIP designation will be removed and construction projects in the bay could proceed and that manatees will be better protected through implementation of additional protection zones.

The markers and signs are expected to be installed by the end of the month. Turrell, Hall & Associates, Inc., a marine and environmental consulting firm from Naples, Florida offered to take on the installation process and through the generosity of several donors and the firm's staff.

Boaters are advised to exercise caution in this area both during the installation process and to be vigilant of the new speed zones. The park is developing maps and information handouts for the public that will clearly explain the new zones. Two poster size maps of the zones are available for viewing in the Gulf Coast visitor center.

Questions should be directed to Gulf Coast Park Rangers at 239-695-4217.

Story Categories:

Support National Parks Traveler

Your support for the National Parks Traveler comes at a time when news organizations are finding it hard, if not impossible, to stay in business. Traveler's work is vital. For nearly two decades we've provided essential coverage of national parks and protected areas. With the Trump administration’s determination to downsize the federal government, and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum’s approach to public lands focused on energy exploration, it’s clear the Traveler will have much to cover in the months and years ahead. We know of no other news organization that provides such broad coverage of national parks and protected areas on a daily basis. Your support is greatly appreciated.

 

EIN: 26-2378789

Support Essential Coverage of Essential Places

A copy of National Parks Traveler's financial statements may be obtained by sending a stamped, self-addressed envelope to: National Parks Traveler, P.O. Box 980452, Park City, Utah 84098. National Parks Traveler was formed in the state of Utah for the purpose of informing and educating about national parks and protected areas.

Residents of the following states may obtain a copy of our financial and additional information as stated below:

  • Florida: A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION FOR NATIONAL PARKS TRAVELER, (REGISTRATION NO. CH 51659), MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING 800-435-7352 OR VISITING THEIR WEBSITE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.
  • Georgia: A full and fair description of the programs and financial statement summary of National Parks Traveler is available upon request at the office and phone number indicated above.
  • Maryland: Documents and information submitted under the Maryland Solicitations Act are also available, for the cost of postage and copies, from the Secretary of State, State House, Annapolis, MD 21401 (410-974-5534).
  • North Carolina: Financial information about this organization and a copy of its license are available from the State Solicitation Licensing Branch at 888-830-4989 or 919-807-2214. The license is not an endorsement by the State.
  • Pennsylvania: The official registration and financial information of National Parks Traveler may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling 800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.
  • Virginia: Financial statements are available from the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, 102 Governor Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219.
  • Washington: National Parks Traveler is registered with Washington State’s Charities Program as required by law and additional information is available by calling 800-332-4483 or visiting www.sos.wa.gov/charities, or on file at Charities Division, Office of the Secretary of State, State of Washington, Olympia, WA 98504.

Add comment

CAPTCHA

This question is for testing whether or not you are a human visitor and to prevent automated spam submissions.

Image CAPTCHA
Enter the characters shown in the image.

Your urgent support helps the National Parks Traveler increase awareness of the wonders and issues confronting national parks and protected areas.

Support Our Mission

INN Member

The easiest way to explore RV-friendly National Park campgrounds.

The Essential RVing Guide to the National Parks

Here’s the definitive guide to National Park System campgrounds where RVers can park their rigs.

Our app is packed with RVing- specific details on more than 250 campgrounds in more than 70 national parks.

You’ll also find stories about RVing in the parks, tips helpful if you’ve just recently become an RVer, and useful planning suggestions.

The Essential RVing Guide to the National Parks

FREE for iPhones and Android phones.