Clearwater moves to establish manatee protection zone in Stevenson Creek
Stevenson Creek manatee protection zone advances
Manatees just got a big win in Clearwater. The city council unanimously approved the next steps for a manatee protection zone in Stevenson Creek. FOX 13's Kailey Tracy reports.
CLEARWATER, Fla. - Clearwater officials are moving forward with plans to create a new manatee protection zone aimed at safeguarding the marine mammals in Stevenson Creek.
Manatee protection zone
What we know:
Clearwater City Council recently voted unanimously on initial steps to establish a year-round minimum-wake zone for motorized watercraft in Stevenson Creek.
The restricted area stretches from Clearwater Harbor inland toward Overbrook Avenue.
City staff and local advocates noted that manatees frequently visit the shallow waterway seeking fresh water.
Because water depths range from 1 to 3 feet, manatees lack room to submerge and avoid motorboat propellers or jet skis.
Conservation efforts
What they're saying:
"The depths out here are typically from one foot to three feet in depth, and a manatee, to avoid a motorboat propeller, has to have at least three feet of clearance," Mike Foley, vice president of the Stevenson Creek Advocacy Group, said. "So, there's not enough room for a manatee and a motorboat, and even a jet ski."
Courtesy: Stevenson Creek Advocacy Group
City staff said local groups have been tracking the manatee numbers in the area and they’re frequently coming to the creek, specifically for the fresh water.
Florida wildlife commission review
What's next:
The Clearwater City Council will hold a second reading of the ordinance and a public hearing on Aug. 31.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission also has to review it, and the city will need to secure permits to install navigational markers along the waterway.
The Source: Information in this story is from Clearwater City Councilmembers and city staff and the Stevenson Creek Advocacy Group.