Citrus County Visitors & Convention Bureau, also known as Discover Crystal River, has launched the Eco Compliance Partner Program to recognize manatee tour operators that demonstrate environmental stewardship and follow regulatory guidelines. The initiative is part of the county’s strategy to encourage sustainability and protect its waterways.
The program highlights businesses that comply with federal, state, and local regulations, educate guests about responsible interactions with manatees, and work to protect important ecosystems such as eelgrass beds and spring-fed areas. Certified tour operators must meet several requirements: they need to be licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard, hold a current Special Use Permit from the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (for Crystal River companies), provide educational briefings or videos on passive observation practices before tours, use anchoring systems that do not damage eelgrass, and respect seasonal manatee sanctuaries and protected zones.
Auvis Cole, Director of Discover Crystal River, said: “This is about more than tourism. 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.”
Certified partners will receive an Eco Compliance Partner badge for marketing purposes, enhanced visibility through preferred listings on DiscoverCrystalRiverFL.com, promotion in county-wide campaigns focused on sustainable tourism, access to collaboration opportunities with other eco-conscious partners and county officials, as well as preferred status for media opportunities throughout the year.
The program aligns with Citrus County’s Tourism Strategic Plan under its Sustainability Pillar and supports restoration projects such as eelgrass replanting and water quality improvements. It also responds to a trend where travelers increasingly seek destinations committed to environmental responsibility.
“As more and more tourists are looking for eco-friendly and sustainable destinations, this program helps our community lead by example,” Cole said. “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.”
