At a recent meeting in Tallahassee, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) approved an amendment to the Manatee Protection Zones in Levy County. The decision focuses on areas near the mouth of the Withlacoochee River and aims to address concerns related to manatee protection, enforcement, and boater safety.
The new rule modifies the existing Seasonal Slow Speed Zone and part of the Caution 25 MPH Zone into a standardized 25 MPH All Year Zone at the river’s mouth. Additionally, it introduces a Slow Speed All Year Zone in the narrow travel corridor south and west of the Highway 40 (Bird Creek) Boat Ramp. These changes are intended to enhance manatee protection in specific sections of the Withlacoochee River while reducing waterway restrictions in open waters west of the ramp within marked navigational channels.
FWC staff collaborated with Levy County officials and other stakeholders to evaluate potential amendments. Public meetings were held in Inglis on September 5, 2024, and February 3, 2025, to gather feedback on the proposed rule changes. This initiative is part of the Florida Manatee Management Plan from 2007, which mandates periodic reviews of existing Manatee Protection Zones for necessary updates.
Manatee Protection Zones are outlined in the Florida Manatee Sanctuary Act. They use data to mitigate risks of boat-related injuries to manatees in areas they frequently inhabit. Boaters are reminded that vigilance is crucial year-round, especially during spring when manatees disperse from their winter habitats.
For further details, visit MyFWC.com/Manatee and click on “Manatee Protection Zones.”
