The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is set to hold a public hearing to discuss proposed amendments to manatee protection zones in Levy County. The event is scheduled for February 3, from 5:30 to 7 p.m., at the Inglis Community Center, located at 137 Highway 40 West in Inglis.
The FWC has collaborated with Levy County and other stakeholders to consider changes specifically near the mouth of the Withlacoochee River. This hearing provides an opportunity for the public to engage with FWC staff by asking questions and sharing information.
Further details about this review process can be found on MyFWC.com/Manatee under the Rulemaking section. Maps and descriptions of current manatee protection zones are accessible by visiting the manatee page and selecting Data and Maps. These zones aim to minimize boat-related injuries to manatees in frequently used areas, supported by relevant data.
Feedback collected during this workshop will assist FWC staff in formulating recommendations for possible rule modifications. Any proposed changes will be reviewed by FWC Commissioners at a future meeting.
This initiative is part of a statewide manatee management plan approved in 2007, which mandates periodic reviews of existing protection zones to assess if updates are necessary.
For additional information, visit MyFWC.com/Manatee and click on Protection Zones.