The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has proposed a significant expansion of critical habitat for Florida manatees, potentially doubling the protected areas crucial to their survival. This move follows a 2022 lawsuit by environmental groups aiming to strengthen safeguards for these gentle giants.
The proposed expansion encompasses 12 key regions in Florida, including vital warm-water refuges like Wakulla Springs and the upper St. Johns River, as well as adjacent foraging grounds.
Read: U.S. Coast Guard Crew Helps Rescue Stranded Florida Manatee In Fort Pierce
This increased protection could be a major step toward ensuring the recovery of the beloved Florida manatee, whose habitat has suffered from pollution, dredging, and restricted access to warm-water springs essential for their winter survival.
Conservationists are celebrating this proposal as a victory for manatees and a critical tool in safeguarding their future. While the finalization of the plan is still pending, this marks a significant milestone in the effort to protect this iconic species.
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