Tell NOAA: Protect North Atlantic right whales

Docket No. 201221-0351

Right whales are majestic, important and too much at risk. This proposed rule does not do enough to protect right whales from fishing entanglements, which are a top threat for the critically endangered species.

The proposed seasonal closures are too small and too short in duration. Additionally, weak rope -- another major tool used in the rule -- is not a proven, effective solution to preventing fatal or seriously-damaging entanglement events.

NOAA should require larger and longer seasonal closures. The agency should also continue to research, test, develop and provide incentives for the fishing industry to adopt ropeless fishing technology.

Right whales could go extinct if we do not protect the species now. I urge NOAA to do everything it can to protect these magnificent creatures.