Homosassa woman's change.org petition collects 9,500 signatures to save manatees

BROOKSVILLE, Fla. - A Homosassa activist is hoping to save manatees and local tourism by convincing the Southwest Florida Water District Board of Governors to reject a proposal that could hurt the mammals, along with nearby businesses, according to a press release.

Hope Corona, who is leading the campaign, has collected over 9,500 signatures for a petition that calls on the Board of Governors to turn down a plan that would cut down water flow to Homosassa and Chassahowitza Springs.

The springs are considered tourist attractions, and according to Corona’s petition, endangered manatees rely on the springs for “life-saving thermal refuge” during winter months.

"For generations, Florida's endangered manatees have come to these springs to survive the winter. If the SWFWMD board allows more pumping, these manatees will have nowhere else to go," said Corona.

Corona collected the signatures in one week’s time, ahead of Tuesday’s board meeting. 

Tomorrow, the board is expected to approve or deny recommendations to reduce the flow of water to the two springs.

Corona plans to deliver her petition signatures in person at the Board of Governors meeting on Tuesday in Brooksville.

To learn more about the petition, visit http://www.change.org/petitions/help-save-springs-for-florida-manatees-say-no-to-reductions-in-flow