May 14, 2009
Spring time means it’s manatee season off SC’s coast
SCDNR is reminding boaters to avoid collision with various forms of marine life; specifically: 
to be on the lookout for endangered animals, especially now that the first manatees of the season have been spotted along the S.C. coastline.
Like every other spring, manatees begin their slow migration up the S.C. coast since water temperatures rise into the upper 60s. This time frame may be shifted a little going forward due to global warming’s effect on ocean temperatures, so be aware of updates to this affect.
SCDNR has several tidbits of information about manatees on their website, and if you do happen to spot one, they encourage you to file a report on their Manatees in South Carolina web page.
DNR protects and manages South Carolina’s natural resources by making wise and balanced decisions for the benefit of the state’s natural resources and its people. – SCDNR
Here are some other ways S.C. residents can help protect manatees:
- Look around for manatees before cranking your boat’s motor.
- Never pursue, harass or play with manatees. It is bad for the manatees and is illegal.
- Please heed “slow speed,” “no wake” and manatee warning signs, especially around docks.
- Wear polarized sunglasses to reduce glare, making it easier to spot manatees below the surface.
- Watch for large swirls in the water called footprints that may be caused by manatees diving away from the boat.
- Use caution when navigating in shallow water and along the edge of a marsh. Manatees cannot dive away from boats in these areas.
- Dock owners should never feed manatees or give them fresh water. This could teach the animals to approach docks, putting them at greater risk of a boat strike, and it is illegal.
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