The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission recently released the new 2021-22 manatee and sea turtle decals. The waterproof stickers feature two different designs and are a fun way for people to directly support research, rescue and management efforts that conserve the species and spread awareness about the challenges they face.

Each July, the FWC introduces new manatee and sea turtle decals that are available with a $5 donation. The designs look good on a vehicle’s bumper or the side of a boat, and donors can also stick them on laptops, water bottles and coolers. They are available online or when registering or re-registering a vehicle or boat at local tax collector’s offices across the state.

“Purchasing a manatee or sea turtle decal and displaying it is a simple way to make a difference for some of Flor-ida’s most iconic imperiled species,” Ron Mezich, section leader of the FWC’s Imperiled Species Management Section, said. “The financial support directly contributes to their conservation and displaying it for others to see also helps raise awareness.”

Manatees and sea turtles depend on Florida’s waterways and coastal habitats. Therefore, preserving beaches and aquatic ecosystems is a crucial component of species conservation.

The collectable decals help fund manatee and sea turtle conservation efforts and raise awareness about the species and their habitats. For example, when someone calls FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922) to report an injured, en-tangled or sick manatee or sea turtle, FWC staff work with partners to rescue, rehab and release the animals in need.

The decal themes highlight important conservation issues, such as manatee-safe boating and keeping waterways clean. This year’s themes include:

n “Go slow – Look out below!” The message encourages safe boating around manatees, what to look for while on the water and shows support for Florida’s manatee conservation efforts.

n “Protect Florida Sea Turtles” shows a leatherback sea turtle swimming among jellyfish. Leatherbacks are true oceanic travelers in the sea turtle world and need help keeping waterways clean so they can keep swimming long distances.

For more information on manatee and sea turtle conservation, visit MyFWC.com/ Manatee and MyFWC. com/SeaTurtle. Select the “Decals” link to order new or past editions.

The public can also support the species by purchasing a “Save the Manatee” or a “Helping Sea Turtles Survive” license plate at local tax collector’s offices.