The comment period for a NOAA-proposed, 10-knot speed-restriction zone in the Gulf of Mexico to protect Rice’s whales against vessel strikes ends tomorrow.
The proposed rule would establish a “vessel slowdown zone” from Pensacola, Fla., to south of Tampa. In addition to the mandatory 10-knot speed limit for all vessels transiting the zone, the petition proposes additional restrictions:
• No vessels transiting at night.
• Vessels transiting the zone must report their plans to NOAA, utilize trained visual observers and maintain a distance of 500 meters from Rice’s whales.
• Use an Automatic Identification System or notify NOAA when transiting the zone.
• Report all non-compliance to NOAA within 24 hours.
Opponents of the proposed speed restrictions, including the National Marine Manufacturers Association, argue that technology-driven solutions can be implemented to reduce encounters with the endangered whales.
Click here to submit comments by midnight tomorrow.
