NOAA Fisheries is expected to officially withdraw its proposed North Atlantic Right Whale Vessel Strike Reduction Rule tomorrow, January 16. The rule would have required recreational vessels over 35 feet to adhere to 10-knot speed limits across much of the Atlantic coast for up to seven months each year to protect endangered right whales from vessel strikes.
The proposed regulation faced strong opposition from six Atlantic states—Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, and Massachusetts—as well as the recreational boating industry, represented by the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), and other stakeholders. Critics argued that the rule would have significant economic and environmental impacts.
According to NOAA’s withdrawal notice, the extensive scope and high volume of public feedback, which included approximately 90,000 comments, left the agency with insufficient time to finalize the regulation “in this Administration.”
“The marine industry is at the forefront of developing innovative ways to protect whales, and we’re encouraged by reports that the right whale population is growing,” said Robyn Boerstling of the NMMA in October. “However, NOAA’s current rule lacks the flexibility needed to adapt to shifting migration patterns and disregards practical solutions using readily available technology. Ensuring access to waterways and protecting whales are not mutually exclusive. Our industry has made significant progress in developing boater notification systems and whale detection tools, and we can achieve even more through collaboration. NOAA should evaluate these advancements and work with stakeholders to create a balanced, effective conservation strategy rather than imposing broad restrictions on coastal states.”
In November, the six opposing states formally objected to the rule, citing concerns over its potential economic and environmental consequences. They urged NOAA to address these issues and explore alternative conservation measures.
Although the withdrawal halts the current proposal, NOAA Fisheries may take future action on the matter. Existing speed regulations for vessels remain in effect.