The Citrus County Visitors & Convention Bureau (Discover Crystal River) has officially launched a new initiative to recognize and support manatee tour operators who lead the way in environmental
stewardship and regulatory compliance. The Eco Compliance Partner Program was announced this week as part of the county’s broader strategic plan to promote sustainability and protect the region’s treasured waterways.
The program is designed to acknowledge those local businesses that follow federal, state, and local regulations, educate their guests about responsible manatee interactions, and actively protect the eelgrass beds and spring-fed ecosystems that are vital to the county’s environmental and economic future.
“This is about more than tourism,” said Auvis Cole, Director of Discover Crystal River. “This is about protecting what makes Citrus County special—our natural environment, our wildlife, and the legacy we leave behind. Our tour operators are on the front lines of that mission.”
About the Program
To become certified as an Eco Compliance Partner, manatee tour companies must:
Be licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard and meet all safety and operational standards.
Hold a current Special Use Permit (SUP) from the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. (Crystal River
companies only).
Show a pre-tour educational briefing or video to all guests on passive observation practices
and manatee protection.
Use eelgrass-safe anchoring systems that help protect fragile aquatic vegetation.
Comply with seasonal manatee sanctuaries and protected zones.
In return, certified operators will receive:
An Eco Compliance Partner badge for use online and in marketing materials.
Increased visibility through a preferred listing on DiscoverCrystalRiverFL.com. In addition, Discover Crystal River will be launching a micro website focused on sustainability and
efforts throughout the county to protect our land, water and wildlife.
Promotion in county-wide marketing and PR campaigns focused on sustainable tourism.
Access to collaboration opportunities with the county’s VCB and fellow eco-conscious partners.
Preferred status in media and journalist opportunities throughout the year.
A Countywide Commitment
The Eco Compliance Partner Program supports Citrus County’s Sustainability Pillar within its Tourism Strategic Plan and aligns with ongoing restoration efforts like eelgrass replanting, spring protection, and water quality improvements. It’s also a direct response to growing traveler’s interest in eco-friendly destinations.
“As more and more tourists are looking for eco-friendly and sustainable destinations, this program helps our community lead by example,” said Cole. “By highlighting the companies that are doing things the right way, we send a clear message that responsible tourism is not just welcomed here it’s expected.”
For more information, contact:
Terry Natwick
Sales and Marketing Manager
Discover Crystal River | Citrus County Visitors & Convention Bureau
terry.natwick@visitcitrus.com
352-794-5506
https://www.discovercrystalriverfl.com/partners/