BANGOR DAILY NEWS • February 19, 2024
2024 is off to a terrible start for critically endangered North Atlantic right whales. Last week, a 1-year-old female was found dead off the coast of Georgia after likely being struck and killed by a speeding boat. In January, a 3-year old female washed up on Martha’s Vineyard entangled in fishing rope, which likely led to her death. With barely 350 North Atlantic right whales, every death is a tragedy and brings this species one step closer to extinction. What’s worse is that scientists estimate that fewer than 70 reproductively viable females remain. There is reason for hope, however. New solutions like ropeless gear have the potential to reduce the risk of entanglement. Common-sense measures like speed limits in areas when and where right whales are known to transit, feed or congregate could make a huge difference. Federal officials must ensure that sufficient funding is available for ropeless fishing. ~ Erica Fuller,Conservation Law Foundation