IMMS crews continue to search for manatee in Gulfport Lake

GULFPORT, Miss. (WXXV)- Crews at IMMS are still searching for a manatee recently seen swimming in Gulfport Lake near Mississippi Power’s Plant Watson.

IMMS officials say manatees likely seek out the lake’s warm water that is a result of the power plant being nearby.

If you are a boater that frequents the lake or Bayou Bernard, exercise some caution in that area right now as boat strikes are responsible for around 25 percent of manatee deaths each year.

If you see the manatee in our local waters, call the IMMS stranding line at 1-888-SOS-DOLPHIN.