The Florida manatee is a native species found in all parts of the State. Protections for Florida manatees were first enacted in 1893. Today, they are protected by the Florida Manatee Sanctuary Act (§379.2431(2), Florida Statutes) and are federally protected by both the Marine Mammal Protection Act and the Endangered Species Act.
FWC helps to protect and conserve manatees and their habitat through:
Imperiled Species Management Section (ISM)
FWC - Imperiled Species Management Section (ISM) staff conduct reviews of county specific Manatee Protection Plans, environmental resource permits, and other planning documents such as comprehensive plans.
FWC-ISM staff also oversees the process of promulgating manatee protection boat speed and access rules and administers activities related to these rules. Staff evaluates data and develops proposed rules for consideration by the Commission.
Headlines
Now available at Florida Tax Collector offices
2012 - 2013 Decal: Springs Help Florida Manatees Survive
Manatee Management Plan 
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The first Manatee Management Plan was developed and approved in December 2007. Staff are reviewing the plan to develop one for the next five year period and will provide any needed updates.
Links
To report an injured, dead, harassed or orphaned manatee
Call: 1-888-404-FWCC (3922)
Cellular phone: *FWC or #FWC
Wildlife Alert
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