#marine mammal protection act

WestPac Council pushes for tougher standards on foreign fisheries

The council urged NOAA to apply more rigorous standards when determining whether foreign fisheries meet US requirements for protecting marine mammals and reducing bycatch, and to create a clear process for public and stakeholder input.

Charges filed in case of monk seal pup death

In accordance with the Act and NOAA’s Policy for the Assessment of Civil Administrative Penalties and Permit Sanctions, both individuals were jointly assessed a $20,000 civil penalty in the case of an attack by unleashed dogs causing the death of the Hawaiian monk seal pup. 

New Federal Rule: Stay 50 Yards away from Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins

Today, NOAA Fisheries finalized a rule authorized under the Marine Mammal Protection Act that prohibits swimming with, approaching or remaining within 50 yards of a Hawaiian spinner dolphin.

State Warns of Increase in Harmful Monk Seal Hookings and Feedings

The Hawaiʻi Department of Land and Natural Resources’ Division of Aquatic Resources is concerned about a recent increase in harmful interactions between fishermen and monk seals. This year, 24 monk seal hookings already have been reported on O’ahu.

Public Help Sought in Protection of Spinner Dolphins

Fisheries officials say close interactions with the dolphins are not only potentially harmful to them, but can lead to harassment, which is illegal. The public is advised to keep a distance of 150-feet when observing dolphins in the wild.