How does manatee status impact speed zones?
Existing boat speed zones established for manatee protection will not change if the proposed reclassification is approved. Speed zone regulations are implemented independent of the manatees status in the state of Florida. Changes to boat speed zones are accomplished through the State rulemaking process, which includes extensive coordination with local governments and public participation. In addition, the manatee is federally protected under both the Endangered Species Act (http://endangered.fws.gov/whatwedo.html#General) and the Marine Mammal Protection Act (http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/pr/laws/mmpa/), and the Florida Manatee Sanctuary Act (370.12 (2), Florida Statutes) specifically provides protection for manatees that is independent of, and not contingent upon, its status as a listed species.
