REMINDER TO BOATERS:
All inlets and canals within the City of Punta Gorda are
SLOW SPEED MINIMUM WAKE ZONES!

MANATEE PROTECTION SPEED ZONE PROGRAM

Boaters are reminded that all waterways within the City of Punta Gorda are part of this very important program. Observance of Slow Speed Minimum Wake zones and Idle Speed No Wake zones are required by City Ordinance #1149-96. Boaters traveling at low speed are not only protecting manatees, but other forms of marine life as well. Bottlenose dolphins, tarpon, snook, mullet, and many other kinds of fish can be found in our canal systems. There have even been occasional alligator sightings. Creating a smaller wake is also limiting the damage to the seawall, mangroves, and to other boats tied to docks. In consideration of other boaters and the marine life we share our waters with, everyone should slow down a little. It is the 'neighborly' thing to do.

THE LEGAL REQUIREMENTS FOR BOATING WASTE, OIL AND TRASH DISPOSAL IN FLORIDA AND FEDERAL WATERS

It is illegal to discharge untreated waste, oil or trash into any federally controlled or State waters and for very good reasons:

• Sewage carries disease and is harmful to people, aquatic plants and animals.
• Trash thrown into the water can injure swimmers and wildlife alike. It can also plug engine cooling water intakes.
• Pollution is unsightly and takes away from your enjoyment of the water.

Vessel operators need to be aware of the regulations for waste, oil and trash disposal that apply to both federally controlled and state waters. The Refuse Act prohibits throwing, discharging or depositing any refuse matter (including trash, garbage, oil and other liquid pollutants) into the waters of the United States.