In the interim, the wildlife agency and the Corps will apply criteria to any new project increasing boat traffic in manatee habitat. An updated manatee recovery plan is due by Feb. 28, 2001. Greater public scrutiny is required in the Corps permitting process. I listened to the settlement press conference in D.C. by conference call. Manatees move in slow motion.
Federal rules intersect state rules at points like permits.
The settlement doesn't have any bearing on what the state of Florida agencies do. That includes manatee protection plans. Out of 13 coastal counties, only four Dade, Citrus, Collier and Duval have plans. Judith Vallee in Maitland, executive director of the Save the Manatee Club, thinks the federal settlement will influence state rules. One thing is sure.