The United States is considering altering regulations aimed at preventing ships from colliding with the critically endangered North Atlantic right whale along the East Coast. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) of the country has mentioned the potential use of modern technology to avoid such collisions between ocean vessels and whales, while also ensuring that ships can fulfill industry requirements.
According to Neil Jacobs, the administrator of NOAA, this move aligns with the President’s strategy of incorporating advanced technologies, supporting American industry, and establishing efficient regulations. The agency is reaching out for external feedback on ways to minimize unnecessary regulatory and economic challenges stemming from speed reductions mandated for larger vessels in 2008.
Nevertheless, experts caution that current technology is not sophisticated enough to effectively prevent whale collisions independently. Sean Brillant, the marine program co-ordinator at the Canadian Wildlife Federation, emphasized the necessity of exploring innovative solutions rather than deregulating existing measures.
Technologies such as satellites, thermal imaging, and surveys conducted via aerial drones or boats can aid in whale detection, but they fall short in predicting the animals’ travel paths. Moira Brown, the director of science at the Canadian Whale Institute, highlighted the experimental nature of infrared cameras on ships for whale detection, stating that while promising, the technology’s limited field of view makes it insufficient to prevent collisions.
NOAA’s 2020 report assessed the impact of speed limit regulations requiring larger ships to slow down in specific areas and times, revealing a reduction in whale mortalities. However, the report recommended enhanced enforcement, broader application to smaller vessels, and adjustments in speed limit locations and timings to bolster the regulations.
Captain Bob Peacock, a seasoned ship pilot in Maine, stressed the importance of adhering to speed limits and fostering communication to prevent collisions with North Atlantic right whales. Despite potential changes in regulations, Peacock affirmed his commitment to maintaining a 10-knot speed for ships. He underscored that while drones can aid in whale spotting, human observation and communication remain crucial in avoiding collisions.
Fisheries and Oceans Canada reported four documented deaths of North Atlantic right whales in 2017 due to ship collisions, contributing to the declining population of these whales. With the primary causes of death being entanglement in fishing gear and vessel strikes, the North Atlantic right whale population is estimated to be under 400, emphasizing the need for effective conservation efforts.
