New England Aquarium: Statement On Proposed Federal Rule To Reduce Risk Of Whale Entanglements

Press release from the New England Aquarium:

2021-03-01

Press Releases

Aquarium scientists strongly urge NOAA to consider more aggressive steps to save North Atlantic right whales from extinction

Male right whale #3466 spotted entangled in December 2019 south of Nantucket. He has not been seen since January 2020. CREDIT: NOAA/NEFSC/Pete Duley, taken under NOAA research permit #21371

BOSTON, MASS. (March 1, 2021) – For more than 40 years, scientists at the New England Aquarium have been researching North Atlantic right whales with the goal of saving this iconic and critically endangered species that plays a vital role in marine ecosystems. In the past decade, we have seen an increase in serious injuries and deaths of right whales from fishing gear entanglements and vessel strikes. These injuries affect future reproduction and long-term survival for the approximately 350 whales remaining.

As leading experts in this area, we have strong reservations about the proposed federal rule from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA) intended to limit the fishing gear entanglement risk for right whales by 60%. While the proposed rule to amend the Atlantic Large Whale Take Reduction Plan represents a start to implementing critically needed measures to save right whales, it does not go far enough. Immediate, bold federal action and a commitment to implementing ropeless fishing technology are needed to ensure this species will survive and rebound.

After careful consideration and analysis, Aquarium scientists submitted a comment (which can be read in full here) strongly urging NOAA to consider more aggressive steps to save these whales from extinction, including:

We cannot emphasize enough that bold and quick action is required if we are to save North Atlantic right whales from extinction. If strengthened, this far-reaching federal rule has the potential to preserve the future of right whales. The science shows a clear path forward for preventing unnecessary entanglement-related deaths and serious injuries. This is a problem we can solve, and the Aquarium looks forward to working in collaboration with the fishing industry, conservationists, scientists, and government agencies to be a part of the solution.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Pam Bechtold Snyder – [email protected], 617-686-5068

This press release was produced by the New England Aquarium. The views expressed here are the author’s own.