NOAA Fisheries has withdrawn a proposed rule aimed at protecting the critically endangered North Atlantic right whales from vessel strikes, sparking outrage among conservation groups. The decision comes after years of delays and public comments, leaving the whales vulnerable to extinction due to political inaction. Conservationists stress the urgent need for mandatory speed limits for vessels to prevent further whale deaths.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Fisheries has withdrawn a proposed rule intended to expand protections for the critically endangered North Atlantic right whales from deadly vessel strikes. The decision has ignited frustration among conservation groups who have long advocated for enhanced measures to safeguard the dwindling whale population. With fewer than 370 individuals remaining, the species faces a grave threat of extinction, primarily due to vessel collisions and political inaction.
NOAA Fisheries' decision to withdraw the proposed rule aimed at reducing vessel strikes on North Atlantic right whales has drawn significant criticism from environmental organizations. The rule, initially proposed in 2022, sought to expand speed limit zones and include smaller vessels in the regulations. However, the agency cited an overwhelming volume of public comments and a lack of time to finalize the rule before the end of the current administration as reasons for its withdrawal. Conservation groups argue that the delay and eventual withdrawal of the rule highlight a failure to prioritize the protection of the endangered species. Jane Davenport, senior attorney at Defenders of Wildlife, emphasized the urgency, stating, "The agency has a mandate to protect the right whale, but ran out the clock, leaving the whale with an out-of-date rule that we know is not enough" [1].
The North Atlantic right whale population has been in decline, with vessel strikes and fishing gear entanglements identified as primary threats. Since 2020, at least 16 whales have been killed or injured by vessel collisions, with only around 70 reproductively active females remaining. Conservationists stress that the current protections are insufficient, particularly in dynamic management areas where vessel compliance with speed limits is voluntary. Regina Asmutis-Silvia, executive director of Whale and Dolphin Conservation, stated, "Their actual greatest threat is political inaction and that is what will drive them to extinction" [2].
The withdrawal of the rule has sparked calls for immediate action to protect the North Atlantic right whales. Conservationists urge NOAA to introduce new, enforceable measures, including mandatory speed limits for vessels in critical habitats. Despite the setback, the existing speed regulations for larger vessels remain in place, and NOAA has indicated that future actions on the issue are possible. Jeff Angers, president of the Center for Sportfishing Policy, emphasized the need for balanced solutions, stating, "We strongly encourage the federal government to work alongside stakeholders on a science-driven plan that genuinely protects the NARW" [3].
The withdrawal of the proposed rule to protect North Atlantic right whales underscores the ongoing challenges in balancing environmental conservation with economic interests. Conservation groups remain steadfast in their advocacy for stronger protections to prevent further decline of the critically endangered species. With the whale population teetering on the brink of extinction, the urgency for effective, science-based measures has never been greater. The hope is that future regulatory efforts will prioritize the survival of these majestic creatures, ensuring their presence in the world's oceans for generations to come.
"The agency's inaction means that more right whales will suffer and die." - Kristen Monsell
"The survival of these whales as a species depends on more protections from deadly ship strikes." - Kristen Monsell
"We strongly encourage the federal government to work alongside stakeholders on a science-driven plan." - Jeff Angers