Large marine mammals are being sliced and diced by propeller blades. Do we need tougher laws to protect?

Question

Hugh Manatee?

Answer 1

Yes we do.

We at the Sea Ecological Animal Marine Training and Help Society (SEATRASH) are working diligently to educate our mammalian friends.

Only the mammals. We really don't care about the lower life forms.

But thanks to pressure from groups like PETA and Green Peace, we have been able to procure $128,000,000 in grants just this year. President Bush has stated his continued support.

Through our program, well, not a real program yet, we are still studying how to do this, we are confident that we will be able to educate at least a half dozen mammals.

One of the major hurdles is the time it takes to train them. So far all have gone 'belly up" ( as we marine scientists call it) due to old age before the training was completed. . But we feel there is success in that they were saved the brutal death and embarrassment of being turned to chopped liver by an inconsiderate boaters.

While $128,000,000 may seem by many somewhat expensive, it is really only the opening salvo, if you will, in this war we are waging to shelter and hold safe for future generations the animals we see fit to help.

Plus it has had a remarkable effect on the employment of marine biologists.

Once the program is established, our estimate is that it will only reqiure about $600,000,000 per year to maintain. Or maybe double that if we are to include the rare, but important, Spotted Whale. While it is true that we have never seen one, no expense should be spared in protecting it.

We only ask that your write your Legislators and the President your desire for us to continue to use your tax dollars in this noble cause. However when you do, please write to Legislators that represent states with an ocean boundry. They are much more effective in that they can claim the moneys for their constituants.

Answer 2

I think they need to work on a sonar or sonic (sound) device they rig on the boat that makes a sound the manatees can hear and hate so they will clear the area when a boat is passing near. Tougher laws may help save the manatee. Or possibly something with a repulsive odor they put in the water the manatee fears (like shark) or otherwise detests and this will drive the poor, adorable sea mammal out of the boating lanes. Fencing is probably not an option because of the cost and the depth of the water. The magnitude of the fence would have to be colossal and this may be impractical. Unless there is a way to create large, cheap fences in the water.

Answer 3

Seems like a no-brainer....(not saying you are)
There should be tougher laws to begin with or some friendlier solutions where there is co-existence without harm.
Maybe they should develop safer propellers. But that would probably happen if a couple of kids got hurt right?

Manatees seem like such gentle creatures...someone should protect them.

Answer 4

You otter call Senator Evan Rude. He should be able to seal the deal. It would be a whale of an accomplishment.

Answer 5

Dumb somebiches should get outa the way

Answer 6

Yes! That would be GRATE!!