Wildlife Management Areas

Wildlife management areas (WMAs) are generally designed to minimize disturbances to sanctuary habitats and species dependent on those habitats—such as birds that are easily disturbed by people. Access restrictions vary by WMA to best address the specific location and resource need. One of the major goals under Restoration Blueprint is to more effectively address the resource protection goals of each zone type. WMAs are designed to balance the use of the backcountry areas within Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary with protections that ensure wildlife have what they need to thrive, now and in the future. The proposed rule includes 47 WMAs, of which 23 of them are proposed new. Watch this video to learn more about wildlife management areas in Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary.