In response to a request from Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FFWCC), and in accordance with state statutes, the County Commission created a Local Rule Review Committee (LRRC) on May 13, 2009. This committee was asked to consider recommendations and data provided by Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation FFWCC staff regarding manatee protection speed zones in Sarasota County. This committee worked diligently for the last two months preparing their recommendations to FFWCC regarding the location and efficacy of existing zones. They also examined possible new zones to increase manatee protection while considering the needs of the community. The LRRC transmitted their recommendations to the FFWCC on July 28, 2009.

	Read the copy of the final LRRC Report
	View Appendix E, minutes and comments section

FFWCC will meet December 9 – 10, 2009 to possibly open the manatee protection rule for revision. From there, the public policy process continues. There will be public hearings and outreach conducted by FFWCC once the rule is drafted.

If you would like to be added to our e-mail list for periodic updates regarding the process, send your request to  rherman@scgov.net. More information is available about the state manatee protection speed zones at the My Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Web site.