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Protected Species - Educational Signs

The Protected Resources Division of NOAA Fisheries Southeast Regional Office develops educational signs to provide the public guidance on how to avoid harmful interactions with protected species.

These educational signs may be used to provide the public guidance on how to avoid harmful interactions with protected species. Signage is 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 the addition of logos, are prohibited.

Questions? Contact:
NOAA Fisheries Southeast Regional Office
Protected Resources Division
Phone: (727) 824-5312

Available Signage

Don't Feed Wild Dolphins - Download File (PDF)

protect_dolphin_sign_feeding.jpg

 

Protect Wild Dolphins - Download File (PDF)

pd_harassment.jpg

 

Save Sea Turtles and Dolphins - Download File (PDF)

protect_sea_turtles_and_dolphins_sign.jpg

 

Save Protected Marine Life - Dolphins, Sea Turtles, and Manta Rays - Download File (PDF)

Dolphin_SeaTurtle_Manta_sign.jpg

 

Help Stranded Marine Mammals - Download File (PDF)

mm_stranding_sign.jpg

 

Report a Sturgeon - Download File (PDF)

NEW_NOAA Sturgeon Sign 18x24 v3_Revised 2019.jpg

 

Report a Sawfish - Download File (PDF)

NEW_NOAA March 2019 design_with new photo_2 holes_scaled2.jpg

 

Protect North Atlantic Right Whales - Download File (PDF)

 

Do Not Catch or Harass Sea Turtles Download File (PDF)

turtlesign_2016.jpg

 

Save Protected Marine Life - Dolphins, Sea Turtles, Sawfish, and Manta Rays

Dolphin_SeaTurtle_Sawfish_Manta_sign.jpg

 

Dolphin-Friendly Fishing Tips - Download File (PDF)

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 April 03, 2025