Opinion Editorials

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New Rules Hold Potential to Safeguard Endangered Species and Critical Habitats

Changes in Endangered Species Act regulations that define critical habitat come at a perilous time for the Florida manatee.

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More manatees seeking out springs in winter, increasing the need to protect these habitats

Now more than ever, access to springs and adequate food sources are critical to the survival of these iconic marine mammals.

A manatee with her small calf nuzzling her.

Let’s save Florida’s manatees

Former US Governor and Florida Senator, and Save the Manatee Club co-founder Bob Graham explains what’s at stake in fighting against pollution and for manatees.

Harmful algal blooms in the Indian River Lagoon have led to massive losses in seagrass—a primary source of food for manatees.

A State Of Emergency For Manatees In The Indian River Lagoon And Beyond

The Indian River Lagoon has suffered several harmful algal blooms, leading to losses in seagrass coverage and the deaths of a heart-rending number of manatees.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is searching for information on the person or persons responsible for the harassment of a manatee that had the word “Trump” scraped into its back. Please call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission at 888-404-FWCC (3922).

Manatee Harassment Case Reinforces Need for Hands-Off Policy

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is investigating an illegal manatee harassment incident, where offenders scratched “Trump” into algae on a manatee’s back.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is searching for information on the person or persons responsible for the harassment of a manatee that had the word “Trump” scraped into its back. Please call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission at 888-404-FWCC (3922).

Politically-Charged Harassment Case Shows Disrespect for Imperiled Manatee

Images of a manatee in Florida’s Homosassa River with the word “Trump” scratched into its back went viral, and an investigation began.

Celebrate springs, but protect them

Florida’s Springsfest celebrates natural treasures, but recent legislation threatens springs, manatees, and the state’s environment.

Swimmers surround a manatee, which constitutes harassment. Well-meaning manatee lovers can jeopardize their safety by acclimating manatees to humans, unintentionally separating a mother and calf, or keeping manatees from warm water sources they need for survival in the winter.

Responsible Recreation is Needed to Prevent Manatee Deaths

Record watercraft mortality once again threatens Florida manatees. Their numbers are declining due to watercraft strikes, habitat loss, and human interaction.

It’s a perilous time for Florida manatees. Yet, Trump is destroying the Endangered Species Act.

Florida manatees face threats, and the Endangered Species Act is vital to protect them. Changes to the ESA will endanger manatees further.

A manatee bears scars from a watercraft collision

Boating Safety and Manatee Safety Are One And The Same

Florida’s manatees face an alarming increase in watercraft-related deaths. Boaters must be vigilant, responsible, and prioritize manatee protection.