Manatee Protection Plans - MPPs

What is a Manatee Protection Plan (MPP)?

An MPP is a county specific management plan developed, approved and used by federal, state and local governments to ensure the long term protection of manatees and their habitat within what is defined as the County boundaries.

In October 1989, the Florida Governor and Cabinet directed local governments in 13 "Key" counties to develop MPPs. This directive was eventually required by Florida Statute in 2002. These plans are used by FWC and the regulatory agencies when reviewing permit applications for new or expanding boat facilities.

As of 2007, all 13 “Key” counties have FWC-approved MPPs, which include: Brevard, Broward, Citrus, Collier, Duval, Indian River, Lee, Martin, Miami-Dade, Palm Beach, Sarasota, St. Lucie and Volusia counties. Counties that were not designated as “Key” counties by the Governor and Cabinet may want to consider developing an MPP in order to facilitate the review of boat facility development in their counties. 

FWC Approved MPPs

Electronic copies of MPPs are available for download below. Additional information may be available on the County websites. 

Resources for MPPs

A Handbook for Developing and Revising Manatee Protection Plans in Florida

FWC August 2000 Boat Facility Siting Guide

Recommendations to Improve Boating Safety and Manatee Protection for Florida Waterways (1989 Governor and Cabinet Recommendations)

If you need additional information regarding MPPs, contact staff in the FWC Imperiled Species Management Section at ImperiledSpecies@MyFWC.com.