NMFS Proposes to Deplete Cook Inlet Beluga Whale Stock Under MMPA, Plans ESA Determination

Summary

The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) is proposing to designate the Cook Inlet beluga whale stock as depleted under the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA), citing a sharp decline in the population, and plans to issue an Endangered Species Act (ESA) determination within 12 months.