NOAA Withdraws Speed Limits, Leaving 370 Right Whales at Risk

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Federal agency NOAA withdraws proposal to protect endangered right whales from speeding boats under 65 feet after receiving 90,000 public comments.

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Right whale numbers stand at fewer than 370, with boat strikes killing 16 whales since 2020, including 4 deaths in 2024 alone.

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Smaller vessels like the 54-footer 'About Time' killed two right whales off St. Augustine - a mother and calf - without legal consequences.

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Female right whales migrate 1,000 miles from Canada to Florida's warmer waters between November and April for calving season.

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Right whales earned their name as prime hunting targets in 1800s, being slow-moving, shore-hugging, and remaining afloat after death.

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In 2023, Trump made claims about offshore wind turbines affecting whales, despite scientific evidence showing boat strikes as primary threat.

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Retired NOAA coordinator Barb Zoodsma cites misinformation and political pressure amid current events led to proposal withdrawal.

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Female right whales now calve every 7-8 years instead of 3-4 years, with lifespans shortened from 60-80 years to just 30 years.

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Scientists project possible right whale extinction by 2035, threatening ocean health as whales fertilize vital phytoplankton.

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Georgia Congressman Buddy Carter opposed speed restrictions, claiming they would endanger harbor pilots and harm recreational fishing.

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