May 2, 2013 — The following was released by NOAA:
NOAA Fisheries announces that voluntary vessel speed restriction zones (Dynamic Management Areas – DMAs) have been established in the vicinity of Portsmouth, NH and Race Point to protect aggregations of 3 and 9 right whales, respectively, sighted in these areas on May 1, 2013. These DMAs are in effect immediately through May 16, 2013. Mariners are requested to route around these areas or transit through them at 10 knots or less.
Please visit www.nmfs.noaa.gov/pr/shipstrike for a graphic depicting this and all other management areas currently in effect.
Lat/Long Coordinates for these new areas:
Race Point DMA — in effect through May 16, 2013
42 23N
41 42N
070 27W
069 32W
Portsmouth, NH DMA — in effect through May 16, 2013
43 04N
42 24N
070 46W
069 53W
Nantucket DMA — in effect through May 13, 2013
41 44N
41 02N
070 30W
069 36W
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APPROACHING A RIGHT WHALE CLOSER THAN 500 YARDS IS A VIOLATION OF FEDERAL AND STATE LAW. PLEASE REPORT ALL RIGHT WHALE SIGHTINGS TO:
866-755-NOAA (8866)
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT RIGHT WHALE AERIAL SURVEYS AND HOW TO REPORT RIGHT WHALE SIGHTINGS