Manatee Monitoring
What is it?
The Florida Manatee (Trichechus manatus latirostris) is currently listed as a federal and state threatened species. Manatee protection services ensure compliance with the Marine Mammal Protection Act and Endangered Species Act for in-water construction projects. This involves implementing the Standard Manatee Conditions for In-Water Work to prevent harassment or injury. This service ensures regulatory clarity and gives project teams the environmental foresight needed for planning and compliance.
Who needs this service?
- Marine Contractors: Building docks, seawalls, marinas, levees, or bridges.
- Dredging Operations: Maintenance or new channel dredging.
What does it include?
- Observer Services: Providing qualified observers to monitor for the presence of manatees during blasting, pile driving, or dredging.
- Manatee Awareness Plans: Developing site-specific protection plans (shutdown zones, speed limits).
- Signage and Education: Ensuring proper signage and effective crew training.
Why is it important?
Manatees are federally protected, and “take” includes harassment. Work must stop immediately if a manatee comes within 50 feet of machinery. Failure to comply can lead to federal enforcement and project shutdowns. Ignoring this requirement can lead to costly delays, enforcement actions, or permanent impacts on project viability.
Deliverables
- Monitoring Logs: Daily records of observations.
- Training Documentation: Proof of crew education.
- Agency Reporting: Final reports to FWC and USFWS upon project completion.
Let’s Get Started
Don’t invest in land without knowing the facts. Contact us today to schedule your Manatee Monitoring and ensure your investment aligns with your goals.
