Much ado about manatees

The latest numbers for manatee deaths are in. According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, 317 manatee deaths were reported in Florida waters last year, which below the five-year average of 355 deaths per year.

One reason could be that we were spared from a major Red Tide last year. The microscopic organism wreaks havoc on a manatees respiratory system leaving the sick, weak and at times, even dead.

But there could be another reason why manatee deaths are down. Perhaps boaters have gotten better at spotting these slow-moving critters in the water and as a result, fewer are getting run over. Sure, you pessimists out there might counter that statement by claiming that because of our poor economy and rising gas prices, fewer people are boating.

However, as an optimist, I'd like to think that boater education is working. Before we start drafting more laws to protect these lovable sea cows, let's sit back and take a few deep breaths. Manatees are as much a part of Florida as palm trees and oranges. But what would this state be without boaters and fishermen?

There is enough room for everybody, man, beast, bird and fish, to live and hopefully, play.

(Pictured: A manatee swims through early morning sunbeams penetrating the water of Three Sister Springs of Kings Bay. Times photo - Ron Thompson. Click to enlarge.)