Environmental groups are taking legal steps to protect Florida’s gentle sea giants from what they call inadequate oversight at a key wildlife refuge. The Center for Biological Diversity filed a formal notice on May 30, 2025, signaling their intent to sue the federal government over manatee protection at Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge. This legal action stems from concerns about understaffing at the refuge, which provides critical winter habitat for about 20% of Florida’s manatee population. “Crystal River refuge staffers protect our manatees from harm and harassment in Florida’s most important natural warm-water habitat, but chronic understaffing has hamstrung recovery … Continue reading Florida Faces Lawsuit Over Manatee Deaths Amid Refuge Staffing Crisis