Issue 81 - February 2022

Groups File Legal Action to Protect Manatees from Water Pollution

Manatees Starved to Death Because Unchecked Water Pollution Killed Seagrass

St. Petersburg, Fla.— Three conservation groups issued a formal notice today of their intent to sue the Environmental Protection Agency for failing to protect manatees from water pollution in Florida.

Over half of the more than 1,000 manatee deaths in Florida this year were attributable to starvation. The mass die-off was caused by pollution-fueled algae blooms that killed thousands of acres of seagrass in the Indian River Lagoon, highlighting the inadequacy of the state’s federally approved water-quality standards.

Earthjustice is representing the Center for Biological Diversity, Save the Manatee Club, and Defenders of Wildlife. In today’s notice letter, the groups ask the EPA to reinitiate consultation with the Fish and Wildlife Service to re-assess the water-quality standards.

The officially declared “Unusual Mortality Event” occurred in the Indian River Lagoon, which includes important warm-water habitat for manatees and supports more species of plants and animals than any other estuary in North America.

“It is painfully clear that Florida isn’t doing what’s necessary to control the sewage and fertilizer pollution that’s wrecking the Indian River Lagoon,” said Earthjustice attorney Elizabeth Forsyth. “It’s time for EPA to step in and enforce the Clean Water Act for the sake of the manatees and all the other creatures and people that rely on Florida’s waterways. If watching manatees starve isn’t the tipping point for the EPA to step in, I don’t know what is.”

Unchecked pollution in the Indian River Lagoon— stemming from wastewater-treatment discharges, leaking septic systems, and fertilizer runoff — fuels algae outbreaks that kill seagrass and prevent it from growing back. Despite extensive evidence of that harmful pollution and Florida’s failure to address it, the EPA approved the state’s water-quality criteria for nitrogen, phosphorous and dissolved oxygen, concluding the standards would not “adversely affect” manatees.

“It’s disgraceful that hundreds of manatees have died as a direct result of regulators’ failure to protect our water quality,” said Jaclyn Lopez, Florida director at the Center for Biological Diversity. “The Indian River Lagoon is an ecological wonder that supports not just manatees, but green sea turtles, snook, tarpon and a stunning diversity of marine life. The mass death of these manatees, which was completely preventable, makes it clear just how critical it is that the EPA take swift action to protect the vibrant ecosystem they live in before it’s too late.”

More than 1,000 manatees have died in Florida this year, more than doubling their average annual death rate over five years. The number of deaths represent 19% of the Atlantic population of Florida manatees and 12% of all manatees in Florida.

“Until Florida is forced to rein in its rampant pollution, manatees will continue to die slow, agonizing deaths by starvation every winter,” said Lindsay Dubin, staff attorney at Defenders of Wildlife. “The EPA must act immediately to improve water-quality lest it further jeopardizes the future of this iconic species.”

Manatee experts predict that the high levels of malnourished and starving manatees will continue throughout the winter in the lagoon and recently announced plans for supplemental feeding.

“For over a decade, Save the Manatee Club and other conservation scientists have been warning politicians about this problem. It is entirely due to a failure to rein in polluters that this foreseeable and preventable tragedy is occurring,” said Patrick Rose, an aquatic biologist and executive director of Save the Manatee Club who has worked for over 45 years to help bring the species back from near-extinction when it was first listed as endangered in 1967. “We have exhausted our options at the state level. It is up to the federal agencies who are ultimately responsible for approving these failed standards to step in and correct course before it is truly too late.”

Manatees were downlisted from endangered to threatened in 2017 and since then have suffered significant setbacks from habitat degradation, red tide, unusually cold winters and now unprecedented mass starvation from the catastrophic seagrass die-off within its officially designated critical habitat.

Today’s notice gives the agency 60 days to address the violations alleged in the letter before the groups file a lawsuit.

Manatees need seagrasses to survive, but pollution that sparks algae outbreaks is shading out the grasses, leaving the sea cows with nothing to eat.

Earthjustice, the nation’s premier nonprofit environmental law organization, wields the power of law and the strength of partnership to protect people’s health, to preserve magnificent places and wildlife, to advance clean energy, and to combat climate change. Because the earth needs a good lawyer.

The Center for Biological Diversity is a national, nonprofit conservation organization with more than 1.7 million members and online activists dedicated to the protection of endangered species and wild places.

Save the Manatee Club is an international nonprofit based in Florida with its mission to protect manatees and their aquatic habitat for future generations. The Club was founded in 1981 by former Florida Governor and U.S. Senator Bob Graham and singer-songwriter Jimmy Buffett to protect and advocate on behalf of the species. Today, Save the Manatee Club is the world’s leading manatee conservation organization. To learn more about the world’s leading voice for manatees, visit savethemanatee.org

Defenders of Wildlife is dedicated to the protection of all native animals and plants in their natural communities. With nearly 2.2 million members and activists, Defenders of Wildlife is a leading advocate for innovative solutions to safeguard our wildlife heritage for generations to come. For more information, visit Defenders.org/newsroom and follow us on Twitter @Defenders.

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Related Topics:manatee News pollution story from the sea

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Issue 81 - February 2022

SEVENSEAS Travel Magazine – February 2022 – Issue 81

Feature Destination

Feature Destination: Cycling in Cyprus

Beautiful and diverse, Cyprus’ terrain lures many cyclists from all over Europe who want to experience epic cycling adventures across scenic, peaceful and car-free routes. The island is a firm favourite for competitive and leisurely cycling, mountain biking and road cycling alike. Read more…

Feature Destination: Climbing in Cyprus

Cyprus is an island full of hidden climbing treasures that can satiate climbers of all disciplines and skill levels. From beginners to experienced and elite climbers, from fans of traditional climbing to sport, speed, aid and recreational climbing or bouldering, Aphrodite’s birthplace offers experiences beyond imagination. Read more…

Feature Destination: Hiking in Cyprus

The mythical birthplace of Aphrodite, the Goddess of Love and Beauty, is a paradise for hikers. A peaceful place with more than 11,000 years in its natural environs – all yours to explore! Tourists flock to Cyprus from all over the world to discover landscapes with astonishing sea views, traditional villages, fertile plains and lavish coniferous forests. Read more…

Conservation Photography with Karim & Jack

Humpback Whales Emerging Through The Bubble – Under the Waves with Karim Iliya

Berthella Martensi – Jack’s February 2022 Underwater Photograph

What’s In Our Newsroom

Strong, Recyclable, & Degradable: New Sugar-Based Plastics Are a Sweet Deal

Starting with sugars, researchers have made sustainable plastics that perform as well, or even better, than commonly available plastics, and are also degradable and easy to recycle. Plus, unlike other recyclable plastics, their mechanical properties don’t worsen after being reprocessed. Read more…

Cuba Shows How to Take Action on Climate Change

Cuba, a small island besieged by the United States, is taking concrete measures to reorient its economy in the fight against climate change. It’s an example that the whole world should take seriously” Read more…

Could Whale Watching Tourism Benefit Whale Conservation?

Many conservationists celebrated a recent bill passed in the Washington state legislature that limits commercial whale watching of the endangered Southern Resident Orcas. However, the activists aboard these commercial whale-watching boats are not as convinced of the positive implications of the bill. Read more…

SAWFISH NEWS: Antique Sawfish Rostra Yield Valuable DNA, Museum and Private Collections Aid Scientists

Sawfish around the world are critically endangered, having suffered global declines in both range and abundance. Animal populations which undergo drastic declines in abundance are typically at risk of having reduced levels of genetic diversity and may be less ‘fit’, more susceptible to disease, and have a compromised ability to adapt to a changing environment. Read more…

Rare Coral Reef Discovered Near Tahiti By a UNESCO Mission

A scientific research mission supported by UNESCO has discovered one of the largest coral reefs in the world off the coast of Tahiti. The pristine condition of, and extensive area covered by, the rose-shaped corals make this a highly valuable discovery. “To date, we know the surface of the moon better than the deep ocean. Only 20% of the entire seabed has been mapped. Read more…

The Nature Coaching Cure to Eco-Despair is Right Outside

Climate change is a growing threat to mental health according to the American Psychiatric Association. The surprising consequences of events like drought and extreme weather events include mind stress and distress, high risk coping behaviours like increased alcohol use, depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress1. According to the CDC, ⅔ of people are at risk for cancer due to the ramifications of environmental disasters like wildfires and hurricanes, and human-caused disasters like air quality and pesticides. Read more…

Reef-World Stronger & More Dynamic Moving Towards 2022 Despite Global Pandemic

The Reef-World Foundation – international coordinator of the UN Environment Programme’s Green Fins initiative – reveals the highlights and major developments in their latest 2020–2021 annual report today. The report shows how the charity has had to adapt to the pandemic to continue to deliver and is determined to build back better. Read more…

History Forgot The Life-Saving Service That Birthed The U.S. Coast Guard: James Charlet is Changing That

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James Charlet and his wife, Linda Molloy, stand in the center of the Sanderling Resort Lifesaving Station Restaurant on the Outer Banks of North Carolina, addressing a crowd of 40 diners. The two are dressed as characters from the late-19th century. Read more…

Of Mousy & Elephantine Cycles, Managing The Climate Crisis After Glasgow COP26

The word hypocrisy has been bandied about on the heels of the Glasgow Climate Pact, reached by unanimous consent of nearly 200 nations, as goals remain unmet and the international community has failed to restructure, implement and enforce laws to do more to address climate change. Read more…

Study Links Microplastic in Human Excrement with Inflammatory Bowel Disease

A potential link between microplastics and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has been flagged up by a new scientific study, reports Bluewater, a world leader in sustainable water and bottle solutions for homes, businesses and public dispensing. Read more…

Groups File Legal Action to Protect Manatees from Water Pollution

Product launch: SINN Power’s Floating Solar PV Solution “Water Lily” for Calm Waters

SINN Power launched its new floating PV solution, the Water Lily. SINN Power transferred its long-term experience with floating power plants in maritime environments to calm waters. Read more…

Automated Fish Counting System to Benefit Ecology, Fisheries Industry

Researchers from the Curtin Institute for Computation (CIC) will use the latest in data science to develop an automated fish detection and counting solution that offers exciting economic and ecological benefits. Read more…

The FREE Weekly Conservation Post and Jobs List

Signing up for the free Weekly Newsletter & Jobs List will get you a round-up of upcoming events, webinars, meetings, reports, funding opportunities, photos of the week, and recent postings to the jobs list.

To sign up for our free subscription, please Click Here or email us Here.

Since 2004, SEVENSEAS Media has fostered an informal and non-partisan platform to promote understanding of key issues and challenges while building partnerships across an increasingly diverse group of marine conservation professionals and students.

Our mission is to promote communication and build partnerships across the global marine community and to identify and address gaps in the community’s work. SEVENSEAS Media achieves this through multimedia promotion and partnerships. The community consists of a diverse and growing group of participants, including non-governmental organizations, government agencies, foundations, bilateral and multilateral agencies, fellowship programs, independent consultants, and academia/students.

If you are interested in contributing or getting involved, email us Here.

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Feature Destination

Feature Destination: Cycling in Cyprus

Biking enthusiasts get impressed by Cyprus’ varied landscape that can go from steep to flat and from rocky to clay within only a few kilometres.

Ride out into urban, rural, mountainous and coastal roadways packed with a range of natural wonders. Follow the designated cycling routes or venture out on your own biking adventure. Feel the Mediterranean breeze through your hair and get spontaneous; you might end up in a delightfully unexpected place!

The lack of headwinds, the sunny summers and mild winters in Cyprus make cycling an enjoyable activity throughout the year. Yet, spring and autumn are the ideal seasons when the days are long and not overly hot.

Various convenient rides start from Paphos in the west, Limassol in the south and from the capital Nicosia, towards the Troodos Mountain range at the heart of the island. Explore the coastal routes that offer spectacular views of picturesque bays and turquoise waters. Experienced cyclists choose to follow the valleys up to Mount Olympos through the rugged Troodos forest.

Ready to embark on a memorable cycling experience in the land of legends?

MTB & Road Cycling in Cyprus

The mountainous territory and the magnificent Troodos forest routes at high altitudes make Cyprus a great European destination for mountain bikers. The bike trails network at Troodos and Akamas peninsula are easily accessible wherever you’re based in Cyprus. Off-road cyclists can test their technical skills and stamina. The terrain becomes very challenging at certain points along the cycling routes, with steep slopes and rocky surfaces. MTB is allowed in any region of the island.

For road cyclists, Cyprus also features smooth road surfaces, dedicated cycling lanes around big towns, and most importantly, there is hardly any traffic! The cycling routes guide visitors through tranquil forests, archaeological sites, idyllic vineyards, traditional villages and stunning olive groves.

The island boasts 45 cycle routes for outdoor fans:

17 bike trails
23 mountain biking routes
5 road cycling rides

Tips to get prepared for Cycling in Cyprus

Cyprus is a great destination to meet other cycling enthusiasts, take in the beautiful scenery and put your skills to the test.

Once you have booked your cycling holidays on the island, it’s time to get well-prepared to ensure you enjoy your biking adventure to the maximum.

Before you put on your lycra shorts and cycling shoes, check out some top tips that will help you make the most out of your trip, have loads of fun and get back home with a suitcase full of unforgettable experiences!

Outline a tentative cycling plan. Plan and study your trip itinerary and grading before you take your bike on tour in Cyprus. Will you follow your own route or join an organized cycling journey with professional drivers and local guides? Create your cycling bucket list and let Cyprus amaze you with its incredible blend of scenery, culture and history.
Prepare your bike or rent one on the island. Cyprus’ long climbs and steep descents will be challenging not only for your physical strength but also for the bike. Make sure your bike’s gears, brakes, pedals and tires are in good condition before you pack it up to travel. If you do not wish to travel with your own bike, you’ll find many bike rental shops on the island.
Remember to cycle on the left-hand side of the road. Use the street only if there is no cycling lane and always keep your bike on the left-hand side of the road as Cyprus follows the left-hand traffic system. In addition, be aware that cycling on highways is illegal and you might get a fine.

Who can go cycling in Cyprus?

You don’t have to be a cycling pro to explore Cyprus on two wheels. The island features a diverse landscape with thematic routes suitable for all level cyclists . From beginner to more advanced cyclists to families with children, Cyprus will offer you the ultimate biking experience!

Top Cycling Routes in Cyprus

With 45 cycling routes, you will never get enough of Cyprus!

Athalassa National Forest Park Cycling Route , Nicosia

The Athalassa National Forest Park nestles to the southeast of Nicosia and it is the greenest area within the capital’s territory. The park is surrounded by Aglantzia in the north, Strovolos and Latsia in the southwest, and Geri in the southeast.

It features a 16 km bicycle path passing along a lake and through a stunning eucalyptus-lined forest. It’s a very popular training and recreational cycling area among locals.

The route is fun and relaxing, suitable for cyclists of all skill levels. The surface varies from hard pack to gravel to soft sand and dirt roads.

Difficulty: Easy
Length: 16 km
Estimated duration: Suitable for all types of bicycles
Start point: South of Nicosia park (Lefkosia)
End point: East of the Nicosia – Limassol motorway
Terrain: Paved road

A Sea of Green and the Coast route, Larnaca – Limassol

The route starts in the historic and picturesque village of Tochni in Larnaca District and heads to Choirokoitia – a UNESCO World Heritage site as of 1998. The next stop is Vavla, a traditional village with white-stone houses. Head downward to Lageia and then uphill towards Ora village. Here starts the mountainous terrain of Limassol with the villages of Akapnou, Eptagonia, Arakapas, Dierona, Akrounta and the Germasogeia urban area.

The route passes through the archaeological site of Amathus, where cyclists stop to gaze at the impressive remains of the ancient city-kingdom that dates back to the 4th century BC. The site features public baths, the Agora, the Temple of Aphrodite, several tombs and early Christian basilicas. The cycling route continues along the coast, offering wonderful views of the Mediterranean and the long glistening beaches.

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 83,8 km
Terrain:Mountain
Road surface: Paved
Highest point: 688 m
Start point: Tochni
Loop: Yes. It ends back in the village of Tochni.

Tour of Marathasa Cycling Route, Troodos – Nicosia – Limassol – Paphos

This fascinating cycling excursion begins in Troodos square and climbs to the west toward Mount Olympos. Next, the route continues downhill to Prodromos village (the highest in Cyprus) and turns right to a pinewood area and Kykkos monastery. Spend some time here exploring one of the most lavish religious sites on the island, dedicated to Virgin Mary. The route continues to Stavros tis Psokas and the breathtaking Cedar Valley.

The fresh air, the beauty of the virgin nature and the lovely architecture of the mountainous villages is an experience you will never forget.

Difficulty: Intense
Distance: 90,34 km
Terrain:Mountain
Bike: MTB or road bike with low gear ratios
Highest point: 1824 m
Elevation gain: 4746 m
Start point: Troodos square
Loop: Yes

Paphos (Pafos) , Polis Cycling Route

An exciting and demanding route that goes from Paphos to Polis, the main town of Chrysochou Bay.

The adventurous uphill trip starts from Kato Paphos and follows the coastal road to Coral Bay. It then climbs to the village of Peyia (Pegeia), one of the largest villages in the region, known for its ancient baths, the natural freshwater fountains and its spectacular Sea Caves.

Peyia Sea Caves is a unique place of great geological interest and incomparable beauty. It features priceless coastal formations created thousands of years ago. Along the bay, cyclists can admire enormous rocky seashores, scattered islets and large caves. The awe-inspiring view showcases the sea’s magnificent power.

From Peyia, cyclists can enjoy incredible panoramic vistas to Coral Bay and Paphos city. The route continues through the forest and heads toward Kathikas village and Prodromos. The cycling route ends in Polis.

Difficulty: Difficult
Distance: 37 km
Terrain:Mountain
Bike: Mountain bike with excellent suspension
Elevation gain: 615 m
Start point: Paphos
End poing: Polis Chrysochous

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Feature Destination

Feature Destination: Hiking in Cyprus

Hiking in Cyprus

Peaceful afternoon in Ayia Napa, Famagusta, Cyprus

The mythical birthplace of Aphrodite, the Goddess of Love and Beauty, is a paradise for hikers. A peaceful place with more than 11,000 years in its natural environs – all yours to explore!

Tourists flock to Cyprus from all over the world to discover landscapes with astonishing sea views, traditional villages, fertile plains and lavish coniferous forests. At the same time, you will get to enjoy opulent sunsets and warm weather.

The island offers a great variety of easily accessible hiking trails that steer visitors to some of the best corners of Cyprus. Natural beauty, remnants of history and rich culture surround you in every direction.

The sign-posted walking trails and ancient footpaths highlight Cyprus’ deep-rooted beauty and its strong Mediterranean character. Hikers love trekking through the island’s placid villages with cobbled streets and stone houses, modest monasteries and fragrant vineyards.

Trails range in difficulty and length, from 3 km to 176 km. Maps, itineraries and guidebooks are available at the tourist information offices in Cyprus’ big cities and online.

So, lace up your hiking boots, grab a walking stick and start exploring Cyprus on foot!

Tips to get prepared for Hiking in Cyprus

Cyprus has hiking trails for outdoor fanatics of all fitness levels. With appropriate planning, the right tools, and an appetite for adventure, you can enjoy a pleasant and safe hike.

Leave behind any stressful thoughts, obligations, work emails, and heavy schedules and enjoy the journey. But before you hit the trail, check out these top hints for casual strolls or hikes on steep slopes.

Plan the hike ahead. Head to VisitCyprus to choose among over 50 designated thematic routes, including nature trails, wine routes, religious routes, cultural routes and more. You’ll find all the information you need to plan your hiking adventure in detail. Based on your trekking experience and mood, you can pick among easy, moderate or more challenging routes to explore. Alternatively, opt for the guided hiking tours running across the island throughout the year.
Design your route according to the season. Temperatures in Cyprus can exceed 40°C during summertime. Choose short and easy trails along the coastline and long walks in Troodos’ pathways from June to August. Always remember to have sunscreen, glasses, a sun hat, plenty of water and some Cypriot raisins for an energy boost.
Research in advance for drinking water sources in remote areas. Plan your stops for lunch and water well in advance, especially when hiking in remote areas like the Troodos Mountains or the Akamas peninsula.
Take with you the right gear. Pick comfortable and breathable clothing that helps you keep warm in winter or cool off for the hot summer months. Opt for clothes of vivid colors that offer adequate sun protection. If you go for Cyprus’ rocky trails and steep slopes, put on a reliable pair of walking shoes.

Who can go hiking in Cyprus?

Cyprus features hiking and walking trails for all ages to explore. You can go hiking alone, with your partner, friends, family and children, or a group of like-minded hikers. There are easy, moderate and hard trails to follow based on your hiking experience.

Top Hiking Trails in Cyprus

Caledonia (Kalidonia) Waterfall Trail – Limassol District, Troodos Forest Nature Trail

This unique trail passes through the dense forest of Troodos Mountain – an oasis full of dazzling pine trees, wild roses and golden oaks. It runs alongside burbling streams and the “Krios Potamos.” The view of one of Cyprus’ tallest waterfalls in the heart of Troodos is breathtaking. Along the way, hikers may get carried away by the stunning views of the valley below until they reach “Psilo Dentro” in Pano Platres.

Difficulty: Difficult. Suitable for seasoned hikers and families with older children.
Length: 3 km (linear)
Estimated duration: 1.5 hrs
Highest peak altitude: 1,571 m
Trailhead: Troodos Platres road

Insider Tip: Best to visit From March to October. While hiking, you can take a closer look at the endemic plants, such as the Purple Rock Cress (Arabis purpurea) and Aphrodite’s spurge (Euphorbia veneris).

Aphrodite & Adonis Nature Trail – Paphos District, Akamas Forest Nature Trail

A fantastic opportunity for hikers to take in the most sensational views of the glittering Mediterranean, Blue Lagoon, Cape Arnaoutis, Polis Chrysochous and Paphos Forest. Revel in nature’s magical beauty while hiking across Cyprus’ western peninsula featuring a chalk-white limestone coast. That’s one of the most popular walks and a great trail to fill your suitcase with beautiful memories!

The nature trail passes through the Baths of Aphrodite (Loutra tis Afroditis), where the Goddess of Love used to take her baths and met her lover, Adonis. In a short distance, hikers can admire the ruins of Queen’s Tower (Pyrgos tis Rigainas) that belong to a medieval monastery. Near the remnants of the tower, there’s a 500-year old oak tree and a faucet with drinking water.

Difficulty: Difficult.
Length: 7,5 km (circular)
Estimated duration: 3 – 4 hrs
Highest peak altitude: 333 m
Trailhead: Baths of Aphrodite

Insider Tip: Visit the Botanical Gardens of Akamas close to the trail’s starting point and smell the sweet fragrances of colorful blossoms in the spring. Along the way, you’ll find several benches to get some rest, marvel at incredible views and unwind

Kannoures Nature Trail to Kakopetria – Limassol District, Troodos Forest Nature Trail

A trail located within the virgin Troodos National Forest Park – ideal for more experienced hikers. It starts at Karkotis River, crosses the magnificent Solea valley, and ends in Kakopetria. On the way, you can rest at Agios Nikolaos tis Stegischurch that boasts exquisite frescoes from the 12th century. This sacred site is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage monument.

Difficulty: Difficult. Difficult downhill trail
Length: 12 km (linear)
Estimated duration: 4 hrs
Highest peak altitude: 1,654 m
Trailhead: The main road of Karvounas

Insider Tip: The trail is suitable for dogs, but you should keep them on a leash.

Germasogeia Dam Nature Trail (Phoinikaria) – Limassol District

A trail around a beautiful valley located just 20 minutes away from the city of Limassol. The circular route passes through the eastern hills of Limassol district, offering lovely views of Foinikaria village, the Germasogeia dam, Limassol and Akrotiri. The terrain is relatively smooth and wide but becomes fairly rocky at points, with several mild uphill and downhill pathways.

The rural scenery features olive trees, wildflowers, pine trees and indigenous wild bushes. Close to the trail, the Foinikaria picnic area provides hikers with a water supply, wooden benches to rest, and a playground for little hikers.