The Florida Keys have been designated a National Marine Sanctuary (like an underwater national park) in order to protect one of America's only living coral reefs. Some areas of the 2800 square nautical mile sanctuary will be set aside for recouperation and some for special uses (jetskis in some areas, non-motorized boats only in others). Everyone has an interest in the fate of the Sanctuary and our country's underwater resources. The final draft of the Mangement Plan for the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary is being submitted to state and federal officials for their approval. Tell the policy makers that you want strong protection for the seagrass beds, mangroves, and coral reef. Ask them to support strong regulations and the necessary funding to preserve the habitat that is home to the Key's unique marinelife, from parrotfish to manatees, herons to crocodiles.
