New Rule Points to More Promising Future for “Ropeless” Fishing to help save Critically Endangered North Atlantic Right Whales
Danielle Kessler, US Country Director for the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), issued the following statement regarding the recent National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) ruling modifying the Atlantic Large Whale Take Reduction plan which seeks to conserve and ultimately rebuild the population of Critically Endangered North Atlantic Right Whales:
“IFAW is working to ensure the 360 remaining right whales survive and that New England fishermen maintain access to important fishing areas. NOAA’s foresight and decision to open seasonally closed areas to those utilizing ropeless fishing technology represents an encouraging step forward for right whales and lobstermen. Ropeless, or “on-demand vertical line” technology, can sharply reduce rope in the water where whales are known to migrate, dramatically lowering the risk of deadly entanglement.
Fishermen using ropeless technology will now be able to remain on the water fishing in areas closed to traditional lobster gear due to the seasonal presence of right whales.
NOAA’s support gives ropeless technology a push toward becoming the preferred method of choice for fishermen, a critical piece of the conservation puzzle as stakeholders across sectors work tirelessly to save one of the most endangered marine species on the planet.
About IFAW (International Fund for Animal Welfare)
The International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) is a global non-profit helping animals and people thrive together. We are experts and everyday people, working across seas, oceans, and in more than 40 countries around the world. We rescue, rehabilitate, and release animals, and we restore and protect their natural habitats. The problems we’re up against are urgent and complicated. To solve them, we match fresh thinking with bold action. We partner with local communities, governments, non-governmental organizations, and businesses. Together, we pioneer new and innovative ways to help all species flourish. See how at ifaw.org
This piece was prepared online by Panuruji Kenta, Publisher, SEVENSEAS Media