Manatee season begins, Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission reminding boaters of important laws

Manatee season officially began Thursday, and with heavy seacow population along the Intracoastal waterways, Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission officers are reminding boaters about the laws put in place to help protect them.

These mammals survive best in warm water. During the winter months, they migrate to South Florida for the warmer temperatures.

Officers ask that boaters stay in marked channels, watch the water carefully and obey manatee speed zones because there are sections on the Intracoastal where you must slow down.

Speed zones could vary from county to county. Officers are say not t throw fishing lines and six-pack plastic holders in the water.

Failure to obey any of the posted zones could result in a federal fine of $150 or a state fine of $50.

You can pick up manatee safety brochures at area marinas, all the way from Jupiter to Boca Raton.