The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has withdrawn its proposed regulation to expand vessel speed restrictions along the Atlantic coast, a decision that highlights the ongoing tension between marine conservation efforts and economic interests. The withdrawn proposal would have extended the existing 10-knot speed limit to vessels between 35 and 65 feet in length, significantly expanding the current restrictions that only apply to vessels 65 feet or longer. NOAA cited the overwhelming public response – approximately 90,000 comments – and requests for further engagement as key factors in their decision. The North Atlantic right whale population, now numbering fewer … Continue reading NOAA Withdraws Vessel Speed Limits, Endangering Right Whales