DNER bans use of personal watercraft in sensitive area of Jobos

Action aims to minimize manatee deaths

By THE STAR STAFF

Gov. Jenniffer González Colón and Natural and Environmental Resources (DNER) Secretary Waldemar Quíles Pérez announced on Tuesday a DNER administrative order banning the use of personal watercraft (jet skis) in the area known as Mar Negro, in Jobos Bay, Salinas.

The move aims to minimize manatee deaths, the leading cause of which is collisions with watercraft. The area serves as habitat for the Antillean manatee.

The order prohibits the use, operation, movement, anchoring and transit of personal watercraft in the ecologically significant zone, while still permitting the passage of fishing vessels up to 25 feet in length, provided they operate prudently and in compliance with current regulations.

The DNER also announced the launch of an educational campaign targeting recreational boaters and the general public to promote responsible boating and raise awareness regarding areas frequently used by manatees.

It is currently estimated that between 500 and 600 Antillean manatees inhabit Puerto Rico. Although statistics show a decrease in reported deaths during 2026, collisions with watercraft remain the primary threat to the species, prompting the DNER to implement preventive and enforcement measures.

Violators of the order are subject to the penalties established by Law 430-2000: administrative fines of up to $5,000 per incident, with each day the violation persists being considered a separate offense. Fines will be assessed against the registration of the personal watercraft involved in the violation.