SAFE for Manatees Act

Study to protect Florida manatee habitat

If enacted, the Secretary of the Interior would study Florida locations that could serve as warm-water habitat for manatees currently using coastal industrial sites expected to be decommissioned. The study would identify natural warm water not currently used by manatees and locations where artificial warm-water refuges could be constructed. The Secretary would develop methods and construction plans in consultation with the Secretary of the Army, through the Chief of Engineers, and would coordinate with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. The Secretary would publish a public report on the study results within 180 days after enactment. The bill defines "manatee" as Trichechus manatus and "Secretary" as the Interior Secretary acting through the Director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.