historic steps through the International Maritime Organization to create the first U.S. and collisions from large international ships. square nautical miles and is one of only five such areas in the world. Starting Dec. 1, ships greater than 164 ft. in length transiting the zone will be held to internationally accepted and enforceable rules. areas within the zone altogether and abide by three no-anchoring areas within the zone. the Florida Particularly Sensitive Sea Area and address, these protective measures. More than 40 percent of the world's commerce passes through the Florida Straits each year. since 1997. resources while simultaneously supporting shipping and economic growth. Secretary of Commerce Samuel W. the Commerce Building in Washington, D.C. from U.S.