December 27, 2013 — The following was released by NOAA:
NOAA Fisheries announces that a voluntary vessel speed restriction zone (Dynamic Management Area – DMA) has been established in Cape Cod Bay to protect an aggregation of 8 right whales sighted in this area on December 23, 2013. This DMA is in effect immediately through January 7, 2014. Mariners are requested to route around this area or transit through it at 10 knots or less.
VOLUNTARY DYNAMIC MANAGEMENT AREAS (DMAs)
Mariners are requested to avoid or transit at 10 knots or less inside the following areas where persistent aggregations of right whales have been sighted. A graphic depicting this area is attached.
Cape Cod Bay DMA — in effect through January 7, 2014
42 19N
41 32N
070 40W
069 42W
ACTIVE SEASONAL MANAGEMENT AREAS (SMAs)
Mandatory speed restrictions of 10 knots or less (50 CFR 224.105) are in effect in the following areas:
Mid-Atlantic SMAs — in effect through April 30, 2014
Southeast SMAs — in effect through April 15, 2014
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