Manatee Release Ramp

Posted by Blue Spring State Park CSO on June 25, 2022

MANATEE RELEASE RAMP
LONG TERM FUNDRAISER

Currently, the manatee staging area at Blue Spring State Park is the old canoe beach, which has eroded to the point that there is frequently no beach at all. Access to this beach is currently an old, narrow, winding boardwalk, with steep wooden steps. A wide, shallow ramp, in a straight line, potentially with very shallow steps, would make this much easier and safer for humans and manatees.

Why does this matter?

A number of manatees are rescued from Blue Spring State Park each year as part of the Manatee Rescue and Rehabilitation Partnership (MRP) for various causes such as boat strikes, entanglements, cold stress, or other issues. After successful rehabilitation, many manatees are re-released at Blue Spring State Park.

Manatee rescues and releases are of great interest to the public and always draw a crowd to Blue Spring State Park. The current old canoe beach is somewhat derelict in appearance, especially for one of the highest-density manatee winter refuges. A well-designed staging area with interpretive displays would be ideal. The new area would provide an outreach opportunity for interpretation/education about rescues, manatees, and the partnerships that help keep them safe.

How can you help?

This project will take multiple phases to be completed and we are just in the beginning stages of creating a safe and sound release area for our beloved manatees. Your donations will go to the Manatee Release Project and will be cherished by all.