Manatee Watch

Volusia County Environmental Management has launched Manatee Watch, an exciting volunteer program that focuses on manatee sightings in Volusia County.

The manatee is a listed endangered species and is protected by federal and state laws, and they are frequently seen in Volusia County. With the help of volunteers, we can get a better understanding of how manatees are utilizing Volusia County waterways.

Volunteers will be providing much needed information, including the condition, behavior, and location of the manatee(s) that is sighted. Training on how to document manatee sightings, as well as sketch manatee scarring patterns, will be provided to each volunteer.

Volusia County is looking for individuals or groups who want to help preserve one of Florida’s most precious species. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals, families, scout groups and other civic organizations. Keep watch and save a life!

If you or your group would like to volunteer, please email the Manatee Watch staff at ManateeWatch@volusia.org

Form downloads

(Right click the links below and choose "Save Target As" to save the files to your computer before filling out the forms)

Manatee sighting report (pdf format)

Scar sheet (pdf format) *jpg image

Practical scar sheet guide (pdf format)