Federal review of whale protection speed rule raises concerns among conservationists

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) -The federal government is eyeing changes to rules that are meant to protect one of the world’s most endangered whales, and the time for the public to weigh in is running out.

Right now, boats 65 feet and longer have to slow to 10 knots in certain areas when North Atlantic right whales are present. NOAA is starting the process to revise that rule, with a public comment period. Conservation groups say any change could put the critically endangered whales at greater risk.

The North Atlantic right whale is one of the most endangered large whales on the planet, with only about 380 left.

In the Southeast, where they migrate each winter to have their babies, the risk of boat strikes, one of the species’ two biggest threats, is high.

NOAA’s National Marine Fisheries Service is considering changes to the Right Whale Vessel Speed Rule, starting with an Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking that has drawn tens of thousands of comments.

The agency said it is reviewing ways to reduce what it calls “unnecessary regulatory and economic burdens,” while still protecting whales.

NOAA points to newer whale-detection technology that could help spot whales and prevent collisions, and said it is working with partners to develop and deploy those tools. NOAA declined an interview, but in a press release said in part:

“NOAA encourages economic prosperity in our oceans, and advancements in technology are increasingly allowing maritime commerce to coexist with endangered species. This action is an important step in implementing the President’s vision of adopting modern technologies, supporting American industry, and promoting efficient and effective regulations.” 

Neil Jacobs, Ph.D., NOAA administrator

Conservation group Oceana said the technology is not widely available or reliable enough yet.

“Any technology that could help would be great, but it’s just not ready today,” said Nora Ives, a marine scientist with Oceana.

Oceana warned that weakening speed protections could put an already critically endangered species at even greater risk.

“It’s really important to do our best to mitigate this threat to the species,” Ives said.

The public comment period ends Tuesday. You can submit comment here.