Clearwater officials are taking concrete steps to safeguard the region’s beloved manatees. At a recent city‑council meeting, members voted unanimously to advance a year‑round minimum‑wake ordinance for motorized watercraft on Stevenson Creek.

Why the zone matters

Stevenson Creek runs from Clearwater Harbor inland toward Overbrook Avenue, with water depths typically ranging from one to three feet. Those shallow depths leave little clearance for manatees to avoid propellers or jet‑ski jets. “The depths out here are typically from one foot to three feet in depth, and a manatee, to avoid a motorboat propeller, has to have at least three feet of clearance,” said Mike Foley, vice president of the Stevenson Creek Advocacy Group.

Local support and monitoring

City staff noted that local conservation groups have been tracking manatee activity in the creek and report frequent visits, especially for the fresh water the creek provides. The proposed ordinance would create a permanent, year‑round minimum‑wake zone, limiting boat speeds and reducing the risk of propeller strikes.

Next steps

The council will hold a second reading of the ordinance and a public hearing on August 31. After council approval, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission must review the measure, and the city will need permits to install navigational markers along the waterway.

By acting now, Clearwater aims to preserve a vital habitat for these gentle marine mammals while balancing responsible recreation for boaters and jet‑ski enthusiasts.

Original reporting: Tampa Bay Florida News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.