Protecting manatees in Village waters

Manatees, also known as sea cows, are gentle marine creatures commonly found basking in the warm waters of North Palm Beach. Unfortunately, these gentle giants are facing a significant threat due to pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers that are sprayed onto lawns.

The chemicals used in these products make their way into our water, causing harmful algal blooms, which reduces oxygen in the water and kills aquatic plants. 

Manatees are no longer grazing on seagrasses as they one did, as seagrasses are disappearing and manatees are now experiencing starvation. About 15% of manatees passed away in 2021. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has declared this situation as an Unusual Mortality Event, highlighting the severity of the problem.

Florida's warm climate and unique ecosystem make it a prime location for gardening and lawn care, but it's important to limit chemical use to protect the environment and wildlife. Here are some tips from the Environmental Committee for limiting pesticide, herbicide, and fertilizer use at home in Florida:

• Use native plants that are adapted to the local climate and require less fertilizer and pesticide use.
• Test your soil before applying fertilizer to determine its nutrient needs and avoid over-fertilizing.
• Use natural pest control methods like handpicking pests or using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
• Avoid using pesticides that are harmful to bees and other pollinators.
• Consider composting food waste and yard trimmings to create nutrient-rich soil amendments instead of using synthetic fertilizers.
• Consider forgoing monthly professional lawn spraying in favor of these methods. It's not necessary and it's not good for our waterways.