Buffett was an outspoken environmental activist who founded the “Save the Manatee” Club in 1981. His co-founder was Graham, then the state’s governor and later a U.S. senator.

Here's News-Press coverage of Jimmy Buffett over the years. He performed concerts in Fort Myers and had time to save manatees. ... She wrote in the Feb. 13, 1981, ...

In 1981, Florida was home to less than 1,000 manatees. That year then-governor Bob Graham happened to attend a Jimmy Buffett concert with his family.

What made it so memorable was not Jimmy Buffett’s laid-back musical stylings, or the dazzling craftsmanship of his Coral Reefer Band. ... This dates to his 1981 album “Coconut Telegraph.” ...

Jimmy Buffett became an icon for his beach themed music, turning it into a billion dollar empire. ... In 1981, Buffett and then Florida Governor Bob Graham formed the Save the Manatee Club.

The death of singer-songwriter Jimmy Buffett has brought a wave of memories to many Southern Illinoisans, including from a 1981 concert in Carbondale.

To celebrate Florida's Jimmy Buffett Day, here are 10 fun facts about the late, ... That includes co-founding the Save the Manatee Club with former Gov. Bob Graham in 1981.

Jimmy Buffett died Friday surrounded by his family, friends, and dogs, his website announced. The "Margaritaville" singer, who co-owned the synonymous chain, reached billionaire status in 2023.