Support Enhanced Protections in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary
John,
The Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary is an ecological gem hosting more than 6,000 species of marine life, including endangered green sea turtles.
But research into the habitat conditions at the marine sanctuary shows that its overall health is declining.
As old pressures continue and emerging threats arise, we need a better plan to take care of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary in modern times. Recently, officials released a draft of possible options to manage this fragile ecosystem.
Let leaders know that you support science-based protections to manage this beloved marine sanctuary in a changing world.
Various marine protections began in the Keys as far back as the 1960s, leading to the eventual establishment of the National Marine Sanctuary in 1990s, which provides secure habitat for fish and corals. The sanctuary now covers more than 2,900 square nautical miles from mangrove-fringed shorelines to coral reefs and seagrass beds where green sea turtles feed and mate.
Unfortunately, the plan for managing the sanctuary was developed decades ago, and is now inadequate to respond to current needs and uses.
Officials are currently re-evaluating protections in vulnerable sections of the sanctuary. One possible consideration is to officially create the Marquesas Keys Turtle Wildlife Management Area/Conservation Area, an area where large numbers of sea turtles already feed and rest.
Experts say this small area of the sanctuary has a “greater density” of green sea turtles than any place within the continental U.S. and territories. This proposal would set a no-entry zone to prevent boat strikes to sea turtles—one of their biggest threats in Florida.
Speak up now to support plans to protect important foraging grounds for marine life in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary!
