Tourist board debates eco-compliant partner recognition, enforcement limits and signage
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Summary
Council members and presenters discussed the new eco-compliant partner recognition for manatee-related tour operators, debating eligibility (brick-and-mortar requirement, SUPs), enforcement limits (FWC/FWS jurisdiction) and steps to publicize the program, including signage and volunteer shirts.
At its Jan. 14 meeting the Citrus County Tourist Development Council spent extensive time reviewing its new eco-compliant partner recognition program, a voluntary branding and education initiative aimed at encouraging tour operators to adopt manatee-safe practices.
Staff described the program and its current roll-out, saying five partners have enrolled so far. A recurring concern from members and audience speakers was whether program requirements—such as a brick-and-mortar presence and possession of special use permits (SUPs) where required by the refuge—would unfairly exclude some operators.
"Right now, the SUPs are part of the requirement of the program," the staff presenter said, describing the current eligibility framework. Another board speaker clarified that the SUP (special use permit) requirement comes from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for commercial tours in the refuge and the keyhole at King Spring, not from TDC rules.
Multiple members emphasized that the TDC program is not an enforcement agency. "It's basically meant to be a pat on the back from a different entity saying you're making an effort and would like to encourage other people to make that same effort," one presenter said. Board members and volunteers noted that law-enforcement duties —like removing or citing operators who alter manatee behavior—remain with state and federal agencies (Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service) and county law enforcement.
Volunteers and tour operators present said they have historically policed or reported inappropriate behavior on the water. "We do report it to Fish and Wildlife Service," Marty Johnson, a 3 Sisters volunteer, said, describing on-water volunteer reporting and outreach. Board members asked staff to meet with Fish and Wildlife Service to get clarity about SUP rules and signage options; staff agreed to follow up.
Members discussed public-awareness tools to make the program visible to visitors: signage at boat ramps and the boardwalk, decals or badges on participating boats, and volunteer shirts with the program badge for people who answer visitor questions. The council also discussed whether to create an expanded badge or tiered recognition so operators who do not need SUPs could still participate.
Staff said they will pursue further meetings with federal partners for clarity and will continue outreach and outreach materials to promote the eco-compliance program.
