Port Everglades is economically centered and ecologically
minded. The Port serves as custodian of one of the most
diverse ecosystems in the country and is dedicated to
maintaining the careful balance between commerce and
the environment.
Through governmental regulations, best management
practices and vigilant study, Port officials work continuously
to nurture the fragile environment within and around
Port Everglades.
Protecting manatees is one of the key aspects of Port
Everglades' environmental commitment. These endangered,
slow-moving aquatic mammals are offered secure areas for
wintering, and all Port bulkheads are equipped with fendering
systems to prevent animals from getting injured between
vessels and bulkheads. The manatees are further protected by
vessel speed reductions in specified areas, while necessary
maintenance dredging is typically scheduled outside the
manatee season of November 15 to March 31. The Port's
manatee protection plan includes extensive manatee training
for contractors. In addition, special teams of trained observers
maintain daily logs and monitor manatees to ensure their
well-being at all times, including during work projects.
Guidelines designed by Port Everglades for the protection
of manatees during dredging projects, now serve as models
for seaports throughout Florida.
|
 |
Port Everglades has donated some 35 acres for open-space
utilization in expansion of John U. Lloyd Beach State Park
and Broward County's Snyder Park. Furthermore, environmental
enhancements at the state park have created 23 acres
of thriving wetlands.
The Port's support of Broward County's artificial reef
program includes provision of free berthing for vessels being
prepared for offshore sinking in the creation of new reefs that
nurture marine life.
Port Everglades is proactively protecting the environment
in a host of other ways, from removal of underground
fuel storage tanks to pretreatment of stormwater runoff to
enhance water quality. Port Tariff regulations preclude wastewater
discharge from vessels in port and other potentially
harmful activities by Port users. Use of biodiesel and other
alternative fuels in Port-operated equipment helps reduce
particulate emissions. The Port also provides property for
the Wildlife Care Center, which is engaged in the rescue
and treatment of injured and abandoned animals from
throughout Broward County.
With a solid record of good environmental stewardship,
Port Everglades looks forward to sustaining existing habitats
while working toward creation of new ones.
Environmental questions about Port Everglades,
may be directed to Environmental Projects Services
Manager Allan Sosnow at 954-468-0158 or by e-mail at
PortEvergladesEnviro@broward.org.
|
