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Protected Species - Educational Signs

The Protected Resources Division develops educational signs to provide the public guidance on how to avoid harmful interactions with protected species.

These signs are often posted near boat ramps, piers, docks, marinas, and waterfront parks. Signs may be posted voluntarily or as a requirement of a Section 7 Consultation.

*Please review your Section 7 Consultation letter for any sign requirements (i.e., size, type, location).

Download print quality PDFs below. Modifications, including adding logos, are prohibited.

Contact:
NOAA Fisheries
Protected Resources Division
Phone: 727-824-5312

 

Don't Feed Wild Dolphin sign (PDF) Download File

protect_dolphin_sign_feeding.jpg
 

Protect Wild Dolphin sign (PDF) Download File

pd_harassment.jpg
 

Save Dolphins, Sea Turtles and Manta Rays sign (PDF) Download File

Dolphin_SeaTurtle_Manta_sign.jpg
 

Help Stranded Marine Mammals sign (PDF) Download File

mm_stranding_sign.jpg
 

Report a Sturgeon sign (PDF) Download File

NEW_NOAA Sturgeon Sign 18x24 v3_Revised 2019.jpg
 

Save Sawfish sign (PDF) Download File

NEW_NOAA March 2019 design_with new photo_2 holes_scaled2.jpg
 

Protect North Atlantic Right Whales sign (PDF) Download File

right_whale_-_help_protect_36x48_2015_print_web.jpg
 

Do Not Catch or Harass Sea Turtle sign (PDF) Download File

turtlesign_2016.jpg
 

Save Dolphins, Sea Turtles, Sawfish and Manta Rays sign (PDF) Download File

Dolphin_SeaTurtle_Sawfish_Manta_sign.jpg
 

Dolphin Friendly Fishing Tips sign (PDF) Download File

dolphins_friendly_fishing_tips.jpg

Sign Production Guidance

Locations:

  • Signs shall be placed in a prominent location that is easily viewable to individuals on foot. Recommended areas include: dock walkways, dockmaster offices, near restrooms, bait shops, or other high traffic areas. Signs may also be placed in kiosks near public entrances to marinas, piers, or docks. Avoid posting signs along driveways or roads. Posting multiple signs is encouraged for larger facilities with multiple docks and/or walkways.
  • Signs should not face the water or be attached to navigational markers in the water.

Specifications:

  • Signs must be replaced when faded, damaged or outdated; therefore, the following specifications are recommended.
  • Material: Signs should be made of a durable, weather resistant material such as fiberglass or aluminum; 0.063 or 0.080 thick with rounded corners.
  • Sizes:
    • 36”x24” (large) - recommended for large surfaces or walls.
    • 24”x18” (medium) - recommended for posts or pilings.
    • 18”x12” (small) - recommended for smaller flat surface areas and areas exposed to high winds.
  • Ultraviolet (UV) and weather resistant ink is recommended.

Last updated by Southeast Regional Office on June 29, 2021