BROWARD COUNTY, FL - November 15 marks the beginning of the state-wide manatee season which runs through March 31. Seasonal speed limit zones and manatee protection zones are implemented throughout the state as air and water temperatures drop. As part of the County's Manatee Conservation Program, the Natural Resources Division reminds boaters to look out for manatees on County waterways (including the Intracoastal Waterway and side canals).

During one manatee season, more than 1,200 manatees were documented in Broward on a single day. Fort Lauderdale Power Plant cooling lakes and Port Everglades Power Plant cooling canals are notable for concentrations of manatees. Following cold weather, manatees will move into canals and Intracoastal Waterways to forage, increasing the chances of manatee/boater interaction.

To avoid striking manatees, vessel operators should obey all posted speed limits, wear polarized sunglasses to help them spot the mammals in the water and look for large circular slicks caused by manatee tails (manatee "footprints") indicating their presence. Although manatees are quite large, they can be difficult to see from a boat since they often swim or rest just below the water's surface.

If a manatee is spotted, the sighting can be reported by using the County's "I Spy a Manatee" mobile app (available for free download on the Apple Store and Google Play). The app provides maps of the County's state-regulated manatee protection and boating safety zones. 

If you see a sick, injured or dead manatee, call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's (FWC) 24-hour Wildlife Alert Number at 888-404-FWCC (3922) or *FWC or #FWC on a mobile phone. It is very helpful to have photos or video of the manatee, including the following information:

• The exact location 
• If the manatee is alive or dead
• Approximate size
• How long you have observed the manatee
• The location of the closest public boat ramp 
• A contact number where you can be reached for further information

About Resilient Environment Department
Broward County's Resilient Environment Department is responsible for advancing the resilience of our community through diverse environmental, planning, housing, regulatory and community-oriented programs. The Department is charged with leading planning efforts and steering projects to urgently mitigate climate change and its impacts, including measures to advance clean energy solutions, address the local impacts of sea-level rise, reduce emissions and protect against economic inequities. By implementing these actions, Broward County offers a greener, more sustainable, and climate-resilient community. For more information, follow us on Facebook, email resilience@broward.org or call 954-357-6663.

November 14, 2023

MEDIA CONTACT: Patrick Quinn, Ph.D., Supervisor
Natural Resources Division
954-519-1218
manatee@broward.org