Port St. Lucie, Fla.—Residents living near the C-24 canal in Port St. Lucie are calling for enhanced boating regulations to safeguard manatees. Concerns have emerged about high-speed boats endangering these marine creatures, leading to demands for the canal to be fully designated as a manatee zone.
Current Canal Regulations
Presently, a stretch of the canal from Eagle Drive to the Southbend bridge is classified by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) as a “normal operation zone.” This classification permits boats to operate without speed or wake limitations, unlike other portions of the canal designated as manatee protection areas.
Community Concerns
Local resident John Hesch, who resides along the canal, voiced worries about the dangers speeding boats pose to manatees during an interview with WPTV. He emphasized the difficulty these boats face in stopping quickly within the narrow passage. Hesch articulated the community’s wish for the entire canal to receive a manatee zone designation, enhancing protections for the manatee habitat. “They’re coming here, 30, 40, 50 miles an hour down this small canal here,” said Hesch. “[It] would be next to impossible [for a fast boat to stop in time].”
Importance for Manatees
The canals are vital for manatees, especially during winter when they seek the warmer, shallower waters. With habitats dwindling in South Florida, the urgency to protect these areas has become more pressing. “Their habitats are getting fewer and fewer and far between here in South Florida,” Hesch noted. “What little thing can we do to stop one from getting injured?”
FWC’s Response
The FWC has acknowledged the concerns and is working with St. Lucie County officials. They are currently reviewing a permit to assign the section as a slow-speed zone to better protect manatees.
Broader Environmental Advocacy
This initiative forms part of wider efforts by locals and environmental advocates to secure the welfare of manatee populations in the area. The ongoing review process aims to establish new restrictions swiftly to mitigate risks to these gentle sea creatures.
Port St Lucie Talks
