Zoning

• Implementation of this nation’s first, comprehensive network of marine zones to protect resources, conserve biodiversity, and disperse uses.
  • This network includes five zone types, three of which are “no-take”. There are 24 of these fully protected zones that safeguard significant natural resources and habitats within the Sanctuary.
• Designation of the Tortugas Ecological Reserve in the westernmost portion of the Sanctuary.
  • The process to create this reserve began with the establishment of the diverse, 25 member Tortugas 2000 Working Group and culminated with the release of the Final Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement / Final Management Plan for the Tortugas Ecological Reserve.
  • Extensive input and participation by the public in the Tortugas 2000 process highlighted the importance of this Sanctuary zoning issue to the local and national community.
  • The Tortugas Ecological Reserve has received all of the agency approvals necessary for its full implementation on July 1, 2001, including unanimous endorsement by the Florida’s Governor and Cabinet.
• Implementation of a three-level Zone Monitoring Program to examine the effects of the fully protected zones on populations and communities.
  • After three years of protection, the Sanctuary's no-take zones are showing signs of restoring spiny lobster and certain fish species.
• Establishment of a temporary and then permanent rule to protect living corals and significant habitats of Tortugas Bank from anchor damage by freighters.
• Deployment of 118 boundary markers (highly visible 30” yellow buoys) for each of the 18 Sanctuary Preservation Areas, four Special Use Areas, and the Western Sambo Ecological Reserve.
• In cooperation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, deployment of boundary markers for the Lower Keys Wildlife Management Areas. The Wildlife Management Areas and “no motor” zones adjacent to them in the Upper Keys have been marked by the Sanctuary.
• Development of a simple, no-cost permit system to allow the netting of baitfish in certain Sanctuary zones.