Stevenson Creek Advocacy Group Update

The Clearwater Marine Advisory Board (MAB) has expressed full support for a proposed City ordinance to establish a Manatee Protection Zone (MPZ) within the Stevenson Creek Aquatic Preserve. This support is based on two 2025 professional reports (one on manatee behavior, one on navigational safety) and citizen data showing over 200 manatee sightings in the past year, supervised by the Save The Manatee Organization. The MAB also supports the coordination with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the placement of approved MPZ signage on the Fort Harrison Bridge, two pylons in the preserve, the Pinellas Trail bridge, and the Douglas Avenue bridge. The Board urges the City Council to approve the ordinance, its implementation, and enforcement.