Saturday, February 8, 2025
spot_imgspot_img

Top 5 This Week

spot_imgspot_img

Related Posts

Humpback Whale Caught in Crab Gear Sparks Warning along Oregon Coast

Oregon Urges Caution Amid Rising Whale Entanglements in Crab Fishery

PORTLAND, Ore. — The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife has issued a voluntary advisory for the state’s commercial Dungeness crab fleet in response to increasing whale entanglements. This follows a worrying trend, with a recent incident on January 6 involving a humpback whale entangled in crab gear and a record four entanglements reported in 2024 alone. The advisory encourages fishermen to remain vigilant and avoid setting gear in areas frequented by whales to reduce the risk of such occurrences.

Critics, however, argue that these recommendations lack the urgency needed to protect endangered species. Ben Enticknap, Oceana’s campaign director and senior scientist, stated, “Advice to remain vigilant is woefully insufficient,” demanding a more comprehensive conservation plan. He urges immediate action from Oregon’s fish and wildlife managers to meaningfully address whale entanglements.

Data indicates a consistent rise in whale entanglements along the U.S. West Coast, with at least 34 reported in 2024—the highest figure in six years. Approximately 75% of these entanglements result in serious injury or death. Particularly at risk are humpback whales, two of whose local populations are classified as threatened and endangered under the U.S. Endangered Species Act.

Federal law prohibits harming these species during commercial fishing unless an "Incidental Take Permit" is obtained. Although Oregon officials had drafted a Conservation Plan in 2021, it remains unapproved, rendering current fishing practices potentially unlawful. Despite limited conservation measures adopted in 2020, entanglements have not declined, prompting Oceana to call for stronger actions.

To address the issue, the National Marine Fisheries Service plans to convene a “Take Reduction Team” later this year. Potential remedies include the introduction of pop-up fishing gear, already effective in California, to better protect whales during fishing operations.

Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

Popular Articles