 PROTECTION FOR MANATEES Tallahassee Democrat -- Friday, April 13, 2001 The gentle manatee often sparks passionate debate between Florida's Environmental groups and boating enthusiasts. Motor boats have long Posed a threat to manatees, leading to proposals for "slow-speed" zones in such places as Brevard County's Indian River Lagoon. Therefore, it's heartening to see a manatee-related subject on which both groups can agree. Pending Senate and House bills would raise vessel registration fees for all boats, raising funds for more on-the-water law enforcement. That plan has won broad support, ranging from the Boating Advisory Council to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to the Florida Home Builders Association. According to Save the Manatee Club's Jerry Karnas, the increase would be about $10 on a 40-foot boat. That's a small price for a law- enforcement presence that will undoubtedly help protect boaters and manatees alike. There's no reason for lawmakers to pass up this safety opportunity. Copyright (c) 2001, Tallahassee Democrat |