Record-Breaking Manatee Count at Blue Spring State Park
Florida celebrates a monumental victory in conservation as the state announces remarkable progress in manatee protection and water quality improvements. With investments exceeding $50 million since 2019, Florida demonstrates its unwavering commitment to safeguarding the beloved Florida manatees and preserving their natural habitats.
Governor Ron DeSantis recently visited Blue Spring State Park, a vital sanctuary for manatees seeking refuge in warm waters during the winter. The park witnessed a historic moment in January as a record-breaking 932 manatees were counted, surpassing previous records. This milestone underscores the success of Florida's ongoing efforts to enhance manatee habitats and ensure their well-being.
Investments in Manatee Protection and Water Quality
Since 2019, Florida has allocated over $50 million to various manatee initiatives and invested more than $1.8 billion in water quality enhancements. These substantial investments have yielded promising results, including the lowest manatee mortality rate since 2017, recorded in 2023. Governor Ron DeSantis expressed gratitude to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) for their proactive rescue and rehabilitation efforts, emphasizing the importance of collaborative action in preserving Florida's natural treasures.
Protecting The Manatees
This significant progress highlights the effectiveness of strategic investments and concerted conservation efforts in protecting the Florida manatees and ensuring the sustainability of their habitats for generations to come.