The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service today extended federal protection to Barge Canal and Sykes Creek in Brevard County, Florida, establishing the two waterways as protected areas for the endangered Florida manatee. The entire length of the Barge Canal and an area extending eastward to the Canaveral Locks will be regulated for slow-speed watercraft operations, both inside and outside the marked channel, all year. Sykes Creek will also be regulated for slow-speed watercraft operation, both inside and outside the marked channel, all year.
"Historically, these two sites have had very high manatee mortality." said Sam Hamilton, Southeast Regional Director for the Service. "We believe that by extending federal protection to these sites, manatees will receive the protection they need to continue to recover."
The Service will continue its close coordination with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission regarding the Commission
