Boat strikes are the leading human-caused mortality for Florida manatees, with speed zone enforcement and technology offering the most effective welfare protection.
Boat strike injuries are severe - propeller lacerations cause pain, blood loss, infection risk, and long-term scarring that impairs swimming efficiency. Non-fatal strikes may leave manatees chronically compromised in their ability to surface normally, causing ongoing welfare burden. Speed zone compliance significantly reduces strike risk but enforcement is inconsistent. Technology including sonar detection and acoustic deterrents could prevent encounters, but behavioral change in boaters through education and enforcement remains the most immediately achievable welfare intervention.