Last Day to Comment on Vessel Speed Rule Is Tomorrow
NOAA Fisheries is accepting public comments through June 2 on the North Atlantic Right Whale Vessel Strike Reduction Rule, giving the recreational boating community an important opportunity to support a modern, technology-driven approach.
NOAA Fisheries issued an advance notice of proposed rulemaking (ANPRM) seeking input on how to modify and modernize the current vessel speed rule. The agency is specifically requesting information on technology to reduce vessel strikes, vessel-size-specific risk, alternative management areas, safety deviation improvements, the effectiveness of the existing speed rule, economic impacts, and outreach.
NMMA supports protecting the North Atlantic right whale, which is why a durable rule must reflect the latest science, real-world vessel operations, boater safety, and the growing role of advanced marine technology. The recreational boating industry has consistently urged NOAA to pursue a balanced approach that protects whales and recognizes the safety, access, and economic realities facing boaters, anglers, charter operators, marinas, manufacturers, and coastal communities.
The current rule applies to most vessels 65 feet and longer in designated Seasonal Management Areas along the East Coast. NOAA’s new review is an opportunity to examine whether more targeted, dynamic, and technology-enabled approaches can maintain or improve conservation outcomes while reducing unnecessary burdens.
Public comments are an important part of the process. NMMA encourages manufacturers, dealers, marina operators, charter businesses, anglers, and boaters to share real-world information about vessel operations, safety conditions, access impacts, and the technology tools that can help reduce risk on the water.
Comments can be submitted via Boating United.