Operation Right Speed: Coast Guard Implements Regulations To Protect Whales

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (AP) — Larger vessels sailing along the Atlantic Seaboard are being reminded to slow down for right whales.

The Coast Guard has implemented "Operation Right Speed" through April 2012 to ensure the migratory mammals have a safe passage along the Atlantic seaboard.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has implemented regulations that require vessels 65 feet or greater to operate at 10 knots or less in areas where the right whales are known to migrate.

The first female right whale of the season was seen this month off Georgia.

Right whales are among the most threatened of all the whales worldwide. The global population is estimated in the hundreds.

Comments

[mudshark12]

01:07 AM on 12/28/2011

Well all right! It is gratifying to see that some of the petitions I've signed are doing good. Ships shouldn't be allowed to run over whales at high speed; its basically the same as Car drivers must be observant NOT to hit motorcyclists, bicyclists or pedestrians while driving.

We were losing too many Whales and now I hope they make a comeback.

[aligatorhardt]

10:01 PM on 12/27/2011

Please sign the petition for cetacean rights.  CetaceanRights.org

[Ursula Amon]

11:40 AM on 12/27/2011

I applaud the Coast Guard for doing the "right" thing! A little cooperation and doing what we can to respect wildlife in their environment can truly go a long way. With shared communications via the internet I so hope younger generations can see the need for protecting wildlife and undo the harm that has already been done. I cling to hope!

[namaste82]

09:38 AM on 12/27/2011

Good! Save the Ocean and all the Life in it. Respect the Earth and take only what you need. Thank you Coast Guard. You are our Heroes!