No more swimming, snorkeling or diving at the park while the manatees are in the headspring.  New policy being enforced that basically states if there is a manatee in the water, you can't be.

For more information or the details, contact the park officials at:  386-775-3663 or visit the official state park site at:
http://www.floridastateparks.org/bluespring/default.cfm

The manatee is protected under federal law by the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 and by the Endangered Species Act of 1973, which make it illegal to harass, hunt, capture or kill any marine mammal. the manatee is also protected by the Florida Manatee Sanctuary Act of 1978, which states: "It is unlawful for any person, at any time, intentionally or negligently, to annoy, molest, harass, or disturb any manatee."

Anyone convicted of violating this state law faces a possible maximum fine of $500 and/or imprisonment for up to 60 days. Conviction on the federal level is punishable by fine of up to $50,000 and/or one year in prison. The State of Florida can pursue prosecution under federal law in circumstances of extreme harassment, resulting in the death or injury of a manatee.