April 7, 2015 — The following was released by NOAA:
Unmanned Aerial Systems (UASs) provide exciting new ways to obtain unique views of wildlife and natural landscapes and we encourage their use for bona fide scientific research, emergency response, or law enforcement. However, since UASs are so readily available for purchase and use by the public, these great opportunities also come with stewardship responsibilities to protect and preserve the wildlife and natural environment.
We have posted a statement on the Office of Protected Resources website to address concerns about the responsible use of UASs in the marine environment. We have become increasingly concerned that commercial and recreational UAS operators are flying too close to marine mammals in the wild, and we recognize the need to provide more information and guidance on this issue. Please share this website with groups in your area that may be interested, such as tour boat and whale watch captains, UAS hobby groups, and other ocean lovers.
As a reminder, all marine mammals are protected by the Marine Mammal Protection Act and some are also protected by the Endangered Species Act. These Acts both have guidelines and regulations to protect marine mammals from disturbance by aerial vehicles. Disturbance of marine mammals could significantly affect their health and fitness and could also be a violation of federal law under these Acts.
The opportunities offered by UASs, and other new technologies, may allow us to see and learn more about exciting marine mammals. These opportunities need to be balanced with our responsibility to preserve our natural legacy for future generations. We are carefully considering the use of UASs around marine mammals and ask you please take a precautionary approach until we have more information on their possible effects.
Questions? Contact Jonathan Shannon at NOAA Fisheries Office of Protected Resources at 301-427-8431 or email Jonathan.Shannon@noaa.gov.