Residents along the C-24 Canal in Port St. Lucie, Florida, are pushing for stricter boating regulations to protect local manatees. This initiative aims to transform a section of the canal into a designated “manatee zone,” limiting boat speeds to prevent harm to these vulnerable creatures.

Concerns Over Current Speed Regulations

The canal section from Eagle Drive to the Southbend Bridge is currently designated as a “normal operation zone” without speed or wake limits. This classification worries local residents. John Hesch, a canal resident, voiced his concerns during an interview with WPTV reporter Tyler Hatfield. Hesch highlighted the risks posed by boaters who often travel at speeds of 30 to 50 miles per hour, posing a significant threat to manatees. He stressed the difficulty of stopping swiftly under such conditions to avoid collisions.

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Role

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has noted that manatees frequent these canals in winter due to the warmer, shallower waters. Despite this, current regulations offer minimal protection. Hesch and his neighbors want the entire canal stretch to be designated as a manatee zone. This change would enforce slow-speed restrictions, bolstering the safety of the manatee population. According to the FWC, discussions with St. Lucie County officials are ongoing, and they are reviewing a permit request to establish a slow-speed zone.

The Urgent Need for Habitat Protection

Hesch underlined the urgency of action, pointing out the dwindling habitats for manatees in South Florida. “The habitats are getting fewer, and our actions, no matter how small, could prevent further injuries to these gentle creatures,” he said. The community anticipates the outcome of these discussions, hoping for a decision that will ensure the safety and preservation of manatees in the area.

Port St Lucie Talks