Beachgoers and Boaters, It’s Your Time to Shine

Volusia county is asking for residents  to save Florida manatees  by becoming official Manatee Watchers. The Manatee Watch program trains individuals, families, businesses and civic organizations to identify the presence of manatees in local waterways. Those who live on water or spend a lot of time near it are encouraged to join! Florida is home to almost all of the United State’s manatees, with fossils locally found dating back to prehistoric times. Volusia County’s manatee protection program manager, Debbie Wright, describes how important it is that people get involved in the care for our waterways, “The Manatee Watch training is a great opportunity to learn all about Florida’s official marine mammal. With the help of volunteers, we can get a better understanding of how manatees are using Volusia County waterways.” Manatee Watchers are trained to study  manatees’ behavior, document sightings, photograph manatees, and sketch scar patterns. The information gathered from these volunteers provide a deeper understanding of manatees’ behavior, movement within waterways, habitat use and individual identification.  The Manatee Watchers training is free. Participants should be at least 16 years old. There are two Manatee Watch training sessions available at different locations: Monday, February 7, 10 AM to Noon–Stetson Aquatic Center, 2636 Alhambra Ave., DeLand Saturday, February 12, 10 a.m. to noon –Marine Discovery Center, 520 Barracuda Blvd., New Smyrna Beach You must register in advance; Contact Chad Murch at ManateeWatch@volusia.org  or call 386-736-5927, ext. 12839. Visit here for more information about manatees and Manatee Watch.