The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is in the process of coming up with new manatee slow zones in Lee County. This is in accordance with a court challenge to earlier zones.

If the commission does not adopt new rules to establish the zones, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service may establish permanent federal boating speed zones in the county. The FWC will advertise the proposed rules, hold a public hearing in Lee County in early 2005 and solicit input and comments prior to final action at their April meeting.