Take a Walk on the Wild Side

Manatee Thumb Dedication to Wildlife and the Environment

Since its inception, Port Everglades has voluntarily supported beneficial environmental programs designed to protect the Port's wetlands, plants and animals. The Port serves as an important natural ecosystem for a variety of aquatic plants, such as red, white and black mangroves, marine mollusks, crustaceans, fish, resident and migrating birds, as well as the West Indian manatee. Since the early 1970s, the Port has made important contributions to environmental awareness, protection and conservation and remains respectful of the Port's sensitive marine environment. Port environmental programs include:

  • Manatee Protection - For decades, gentle, herbivorous manatees have made their winter homes annually in Florida Power & Light's warm discharge canal inside the Port. The Port has actively participated in a variety of manatee protection programs to safeguard Florida's favorite defenseless marine mammal.
  • Oil Spill Prevention & Recovery - In conjunction with the U.S. Coast Guard, the petroleum industry and a variety of emergency response contractors, the Port has developed a comprehensive, ongoing spill prevention and oil recovery program.
  • Artificial Reef Program - Through a partnership with Broward County's Department of Planning and Environmental Protection, the Port has participated in numerous artificial reef projects, specifically offering free berths for vessels as they are prepared for sinking. One of South Florida's artificial reefs is named after Port Everglades on behalf of the Port's continuous cooperation.
  • Support of the Wildlife Care Center - Port Everglades supports the Wildlife Care Center's efforts to rescue, rehabilitate and release wildlife back into nature by providing two acres of land for center facilities and arranging a nominal fee lease arrangement that began back in 1970.
  • Environmental Education Facility - The Port opened a state-of-the-art 1,100 sq.-ft. facility with a boardwalk for observing wildlife in 1991 adjacent to John U. Lloyd State Recreational Area in Fort Lauderdale. Various environmental education groups use the center, which was awarded the 1991 national American Association of Port Authorities Environmental Award of Excellence.
  • Fishing Prohibited - The Port prohibits fishing and carries a $500 fine to safeguard marine wildlife and the public.
  • Regulatory Compliance and Public Awareness - The Port employs a full-time Environmental Coordinator to ensure compliance with all environmental regulations and requirements. In addition, the Port supports public awareness efforts and outreach by publishing regular updates on environmental issues and by presenting expert speakers to various community groups.

 

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