Boaters – Watch for Manatees Over the 4^th of July Weekend

Across the state, people are getting fired up for 4^th of July celebrations.  Save the Manatee Club reminds the boating community to be extra cautious over the busy weekend.

“Watercraft-related mortality is an ongoing yet preventable cause of manatee injuries and deaths,” said Dr. Katie Tripp, Director of Science and Conservation for Save the Manatee Club.  “There were 42 confirmed watercraft-related manatee deaths through June 5, 2009, and there have been a total of 240 mortalities so far this year.  These numbers represent the highest total mortality and second highest watercraft mortality documented during this time frame over the last 5 years.  In fact, historically, watercraft has been the leading known cause of manatee deaths.  However, with the cooperation and vigilance of the boating community, we hope that manatees can be protected from further injury during the July 4^th weekend and the remainder of the summer boating season.  Boaters often travel in waterways shared with manatees so they play an important role in protecting this endangered marine mammal.”