It’s the second annual Right Whale Day here in Massachusetts – a day to celebrate, cherish, and renew our call to protect our big marine mammal neighbors swimming off our shores.
Right Whales are amazing creatures, but unfortunately, they haven’t experienced the same kinds of rebounds or protections that other well-known whales have. And with only around 350 right whales left in our seas, we have no time to waste.
It’s time for a Right Whale National Marine Sanctuary!
We are calling for better, more comprehensive management of ocean waters adjacent to the Stellwagen National Marine Sanctuary, around Cape Cod to Block Island. These are the briny deeps that right whales come to in the spring to break their fast after wintering off the coasts of Georgia and Jacksonville, Florida.
The only way we can improve the plight of right whales is by coming together in coherent collaboration. The National Marine Sanctuary will feature an Advisory Council that includes representatives of all interests and user groups, including local and indigenous communities, recreational and sport fisherfolks, boat operators, NOAA, New England Fisheries Management Council, windmill operators, and others. The Advisory Council will meet regularly to understand better the challenges whales face, to slow environmental degradation, and to restore a precious 6,500 square mile ocean realm.
A large number of people donating today will demonstrate, more than the dollar amount, that we are walking the walk to urge the government to take responsibility for a much-deserved Right Whale National Marine Sanctuary.
Step up to make a big difference on Right Whale Day!
Steady on,
Rob
