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North Sails Loft 57 Podcast

Tell NOAA to modernize its outdated vessel speed rule

by American Sportfishing Association 27 May 08:18 PDT
American Sportfishing Association © American Sportfishing Association

In 2022, NOAA proposed a sweeping expansion of the North Atlantic Right Whale Vessel Speed Rule that would have forced many small recreational boats along the East Coast to travel at just 10 knots for up to seven months out of the year.

The proposal would have created serious consequences for the sportfishing community without providing meaningful conservation improvements for whales.

After years of advocacy from anglers, boaters, small business owners, and coastal communities, NOAA withdrew the expanded version of the rule in 2024 and is now assessing the underlying 2008 rule for larger vessels through a formal public comment process. The agency is seeking public input on how new technologies, updated science, and vessel-specific risk assessments can help shape a smarter and more balanced approach.

Write NOAA and urge the agency to pursue a modern, technology-driven approach that protects whales while preserving boating access, safe navigation, and coastal jobs. Act today — Comments are due by 11:59 EDT on June 2.

Take Action

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