US Considers Tech Upgrades to Protect Whales

The United States is considering revisions to regulations aimed at reducing the risk of North Atlantic right whales being struck by ships along the East Coast. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) of the country has highlighted the potential of modern technology in preventing collisions between marine vessels and whales, all while satisfying industry requirements. NOAA Administrator Neil Jacobs emphasized the importance of this move in aligning with the President’s agenda of embracing cutting-edge technologies, supporting American businesses, and streamlining regulations, as stated in a news release on March 4.

NOAA is inviting feedback from external parties on how to alleviate the “unnecessary regulatory and economic burdens” stemming from the speed restrictions imposed on larger ships in 2008.

Nonetheless, experts argue that current technology is not sufficiently advanced to entirely avert whale collisions. Sean Brillant, the marine program coordinator at the Canadian Wildlife Federation, expressed that while it is commendable to explore innovative solutions, it is premature to relax existing protocols.

Brillant pointed out that technologies such as satellites, thermal imaging, and aerial or marine-based surveys can aid in whale detection but fall short in predicting their movements to prevent collisions. Moira Brown, the science director at the Canadian Whale Institute, mentioned that infrared cameras on ships can spot whales from a distance but are still experimental and have limitations in scope. Brown suggested that while speed limits alone may not be entirely effective, altering them would represent a significant setback for conservation efforts.

A 2020 report by NOAA evaluated the impact of speed regulations, which require larger ships to reduce speed in specified areas. While the regulations have reduced whale mortalities, the report recommended enhancing enforcement, extending rules to smaller vessels, and adjusting timings and locations of speed limits.

Bob Peacock, a veteran ship pilot in Maine, emphasized the importance of adhering to speed limits and effective communication to prevent whale collisions. Peacock affirmed that if speed regulations are altered, he will continue to advocate for maintaining a speed of 10 knots. He highlighted the value of drones in spotting whales but stressed the irreplaceable role of human vigilance in avoiding collisions.

According to Fisheries and Oceans Canada, there were four documented North Atlantic right whale deaths attributed to ship collisions in 2017. The declining population of these whales, with less than 400 individuals remaining, is largely attributed to entanglement in fishing gear and vessel strikes.

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