The known level of annual manatee mortality in U.S. 

 waters since 1977 is summarized in the following table. The 

 figures include the number of manatee carcasses recovered by- 

 year and the number of animals known to have died but which 

 were not recovered. 



Manatee Mortalitv in the United States. 1977-1986 



A few years ago an annual mortality of more than 100 

 animals was considered high. As this table shows, in recent 

 years such levels have become typical. In light of the small 

 size of the Florida manatee population, the continued loss of 

 more than 100 animals per year represents a serious threat to 

 the survival of the population. Collisions between manatees 

 and boats is the largest source of human-related mortality 

 and is increasing. Between 1980 and 1983, boat-related 

 deaths averaged about 19 animals per year, or about 19 

 percent of the total known manatee mortality. Between 1984 

 and 1986, annual boat-related deaths averaged 34 animals, or 

 about 27 percent of the total known manatee mortality. 

 Clearly, further efforts are needed to minimize human-related 

 mortality, particularly that caused by boat and barge 

 collisions, and to protect essential habitat. 



Since 1979, the Commission has devoted considerable time 

 and funding on efforts to enhance protection and recovery of 

 the West Indian manatee in Florida. In particular, the 

 Commission's efforts were designed to assist cooperative 

 manatee conservation programs being implemented by the Fish 

 and Wildlife Service, the Florida Department of Natural 

 Resources, the Florida Power and Light Company, and numerous 

 public and private organizations. These activities have been 

 described in detail in previous Annual Reports. 



As a result of these cooperative efforts, a great deal 

 has been accomplished since 1979. During the past two years 

 in particular, the Florida Department of Natural Resources 

 has strengthened its manatee protection program by securing a 



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