Toothless? The Endangered Manatee and Florida Manatee Sanctuary Act

30 Pages Posted: 12 Mar 2015

See all articles by Keith W. Rizzardi

Keith W. Rizzardi

St. Thomas University School of Law

Date Written: 1996

Abstract

Despite protective legislation, the number of manatee deaths -- particularly those resulting from collisions with recreational boats -- continues to increase. Experts report the cause is partly due to inadequate enforcement of the protection laws, which in turn diminishes the laws' deterrent effects. These and other serious problems that undermine the MSA's effectiveness indicate that it is time for the Legislature to reexamine the MSA and make necessary revisions, such as clarifying and reducing the rulemaking burdens placed upon DEP, increasing protection laws and requiring their strict enforcement, modifying and replacing water control structures, and empowering the agency to implement an effective state-wide education program.

Part II of this Article examines the history of species protection and focuses on why species deserve protection. Part III identifies the particular problems facing the manatee. Part IV explores the development of manatee protection policies, while Part V considers the implementation of these policies. Part VI evaluates the existing manatee protection program and suggests alternatives. Finally, Part VII concludes that although once considered visionary legislation, the MSA today does not effectively serve to protect manatee populations and is in need of legislative amendments to strengthen and expand its protective capabilities.

Suggested Citation

Rizzardi, Keith W., Toothless? The Endangered Manatee and Florida Manatee Sanctuary Act (1996). Florida State University Law Review, Vol. 24, 1996-1997, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=1925027

Keith W. Rizzardi (Contact Author)

St. Thomas University School of Law ( email )

16401 N.W. 37th Ave.
Miami, FL 33054
United States
305.474.2422 (Phone)

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