Resource Management Division

The Resource Management Division is responsible for habitat and wildlife management and public access on nearly 30,000 acres of conserved public land.

Manatee County's Natural Preserve System

Manatee County's Natural Preserve System

The Resource Management Division is responsible for habitat and wildlife management and public access on nearly 30,000 acres of conserved public land. The Marine Section houses the artificial reef, manatee protection, navigational aids and abandoned vessel programs. The division goal is to "conserve and protect" the natural resources in Manatee County utilizing adaptive management and minimal impact public access and utilization.
[more]

Manatee County's Preserves

Duette Preserve

Duette Preserve

The Duette Preserve is the largest Preserve in the County system at over 24,000 acres in size. It is located in the eastern part of the County and contains the headwaters of Manatee River. read on

Emerson Point Preserve

Emerson Point Preserve

Emerson Point has a special location at the mouth of the Manatee River where it meets Lower Tampa Bay. Explore the preserve's unique history, including Native American mound sites, and wander the shady trails through the tropical coastal habitat. read on

Rye Preserve

Rye Preserve

Experience a slice of old Florida at the Rye Preserve. You don't have to travel far, the Rye Preserve is closer than you think.
read on

Robinson Preserve

Robinson Preserve

Enjoy the great outdoors in Manatee County's newest conservation property, Robinson Preserve. Explore over 3 miles of hiking, biking, and paddle trails, a 40-foot tall observation tower, boardwalks, and more. read on

Jiggs Landing

Jiggs Landing

Jigg's Landing on the Ever's Reservoir offers freshwater fishing and canoeing opportunities on the Evers Reservoir and Braden River. The property was purchased in 1944 by Al (Jiggs) and Agnes Metcalf and included a 7-acre piece of property. Their dream was to create ... read on

Marine Resources

Marine Resources Program

Marine Resources Program

The Marine Resources Program of the Natural Resources Department is charged with installing and maintaining those aids to navigation and regulatory waterway signs that are the County's responsibility, the removal of lost and abandoned vessels from the County ... read on

Artificial Reefs

Artificial Reefs

The Manatee County Artificial Reef Program grew from the need to increase and enhance recreational fishing and diving in addition to creating and restoring marine habitats lost to development. Non-threatening materials which would otherwise end up in a landfill are ... read on

Lost or Abandoned Vessels

Lost or Abandoned Vessels

The Marine Resources Program monitors the presence of lost and/or abandoned vessels in Manatee County's waterways. Manatee County Ordinance 05-16 prohibits any person from willfully or intentionally leaving lost or abandoned vessels upon County waters and provides a ... read on

Manatee Protection

Manatee Protection

In order to adequately protect manatees, Manatee County has implemented slow-speed zones in many of our waterways. Signage installed throughout County waters identifies regulated zones that manatees frequent. read on

About Resource Management

About Resource Management

The Resource Management Division is comprised of two unique sections. The Lands Section is responsible for habitat and wildlife management and public access on nearly 30,000 acres of conserved public land. The Marine Section houses the artificial reef, manatee protection, navigational aids and abandoned vessel programs. The division goal is to "conserve and protect" the natural resources in Manatee County utilizing adaptive management and minimal impact public access and utilization. [more]

Events and Rentals

Events and Rentals

Manatee County's preserves can host your next group event. From weddings and family reunions to birthday parties and group gatherings, the preserves can provide a unique natural setting for your next special event. Facilities include gazebos, pavilions, campsites, and more. [more]