The power plants in Brevard County have interfered with the normal migratory behavior of the manatees. Manatees are at risk of disease, malnutrition and other hazards as a result. The State is requiring these plants to discharge hot water to the detriment of the environment, manatees and at an increased cost to the customers. It is more risky for manatees to have boats going slow according to a study by Dr. Edmund Gerstein. We should use Dr. Gerstein s work to require manatee-warning devices on all boats, especially barges.
Manatees destroy seagrass beds by tearing the vegetation out by the roots.
Manatees pollute the water by discharging their wastes. Limited boat ramp access in the Lagoon area. Need more enforcement officers to patrol waters. Place a tax or license fee on all motors. Save the Manatee Club should pay for enforcement officers not just boat-license fees, club should pay for signs.