Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Emergency Rule To Establish a Manatee Refuge in Kings Bay, Citrus County, FL

This emergency rule establishes a manatee refuge in Citrus County, Florida, in the waters of Kings Bay, including its tributaries and connected waters because we, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), have determined that there is substantial evidence that there is imminent danger of a taking of one or more manatees (Trichechus manatus) in these waters. This emergency action is effective for 120 days. We will initiate the rulemaking process to establish a permanent manatee refuge in this area, including holding the first of several public meetings, within 10 days of the publication of this rule.