Endangered Fish and Wildlife; Marine Mammal Protection Act; Proposed Conservation Plan for Southern Resident Killer Whales

Samenvatting

The Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) of 1972, as amended, requires the Secretary of Commerce to prepare a conservation plan for any species or stock of marine mammals designated as depleted under the Act. The Southern Resident stock of killer whales (Orcinus orca) was designated as depleted on May 29, 2003, and a conservation plan was developed to promote the conservation and recovery of these whales. NMFS announces the availability for public review of the Proposed Conservation Plan for Southern Resident Killer Whales (Plan). NMFS is requesting review and comment on the Plan from the public and all interested parties.