Florida State Parks Foundation has announced new manatee-related visitor resources at four state parks, funded by a $250,000 donation from the Jacksonville-based Delores Barr Weaver Legacy Funds.
The additions arrive during November, recognized as Manatee Awareness Month since former Gov. Bob Graham made the designation in 1979. The parks involved—Manatee Springs State Park, Fanning Springs State Park, Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park and Blue Spring State Park—provide habitat as well as opportunities for visitors to learn about the animals.
At Manatee Springs and Fanning Springs state parks in Levy County, new signs explain Florida manatees and how visitors can share the state’s waterways with them.
Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park has received new habitat resources for its ambassador manatees, along with repairs and upgrades to its manatee patrol boat. The park’s floating underwater observatory, known as the Fish Bowl, offers daily programs where visitors can see the ambassador manatees underwater.
Blue Spring State Park in Volusia County has added children’s books, craft supplies, an augmented-reality experience and a hydrophone that lets visitors listen to manatees underwater. During peak winter season, as many as 900 manatees gather in the park’s spring run.
Florida State Parks Director Chuck Hatcher said the resources will support manatees and their habitat while helping park visitors, particularly children, build connections with the species.
