Protecting Miami s Mangrove Island Rookery
Miami commissioners are deciding whether to protect Mangrove Island, an island in Biscayne Bay s northern basin that is home to marine birds. Increased boating activity in the area has led to disturbances in the habitat, with speeders on boats and personal watercrafts causing concern. Nearby Bird Key has already been abandoned due to aggressive motorized boating. Mangrove Island has become an official rookery, with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission recognizing its importance. However, an increase in speeding boats, jetskis, and reckless fishing has led to bird deaths and a threat to the rookery. Miami Commissioner Sabina Covo is working to protect the rookery by sponsoring resolutions to enforce restrictions on motorized water activity and establish idle speed zones. Activists are calling for the protection of this critical wildlife habitat, emphasizing its importance for the community and the local economy.
Miami commissioners are considering protection for Mangrove Island, which is home to marine birds but has been disrupted by increased boating activity. Speeding boats and personal watercrafts have caused concern, as nearby Bird Key has already been abandoned due to aggressive motorized boating. Mangrove Island is an official rookery, but bird deaths and habitat threats have occurred due to speeding boats, jetskis, and reckless fishing. Commissioner Sabina Covo is working to enforce restrictions on motorized water activity and establish idle speed zones to protect the rookery. Activists emphasize the importance of this habitat for the community and local economy.
