NMFS Issues Regulations to Protect Humpback Whales in Hawaiian Waters

Summary

The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) is introducing new regulations under the Marine Mammal Protection Act to safeguard humpback whales from human approach in the waters surrounding the Hawaiian Islands. The rules, which take effect on a date to be announced, prohibit aircraft from flying within 1,000 feet of the whales and restrict human approach to within 100 yards of the whales.