Marine Mammal Protection Act Under Threat: Bill Could Roll Back Key Protections

A decades-old U.S. Law designed to protect marine mammals is facing potential rollbacks, sparking concern among conservationists. The Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA), signed into law in 1972 by President Richard Nixon, aimed to prevent the decline of marine mammal populations and ensure their continued role in ocean ecosystems.

A Landmark Law Under Scrutiny

The MMPA has been lauded as a “lodestar for marine conservation globally” by Michael Jasney, Director of Marine Mammals at the National Resource Defense Council (NRDC). The law was enacted in response to significant declines in marine mammal populations caused by human activities. Fifty-four years after its passage, marine mammal populations have increased along U.S. Coastlines.

Did You Know? In 2019, whale watching tourism in Alaska accounted for more than 550,000 visitors, representing one-quarter of the state’s 2.2 million summer visitors.

Economic Considerations and Proposed Changes

Congressman Nick Begich III of Alaska has proposed amendments to the MMPA. These proposed changes come as the oil and gas industry, which comprises over 80% of Alaska’s economy, seeks greater access to resources. The proposed bill addresses interests of indigenous Tribes and the fishing industry.

A key element of the MMPA potentially at risk is its “incidental take” provision. This provision requires permits for activities like using high-powered airguns to search for oil on the ocean floor, a practise known to harm marine mammals. The proposed reauthorization bill, according to the NRDC, “would prevent wildlife agencies from changing the timing, location, or design of industrial activities in any way.”

Expert Insight: The proposed changes to the MMPA represent a potential shift in priorities, balancing conservation efforts with economic interests, particularly those tied to the oil and gas industry. This highlights the ongoing tension between resource extraction and environmental protection.

Potential Consequences

If passed, the bill could facilitate expanded offshore oil and gas exploration and potentially lead to fewer restrictions on commercial fishing. Analysts expect this could increase the risk of incidents similar to the 2011 BP disaster in the Gulf. The NRDC notes there is “plenty of pushback” from conservation groups, Tribal authorities, the scientific community, and aquariums.

The bill still requires passage by both the House and Senate. Environmental groups have also raised concerns about marine mammal overpopulations, which can hinder efforts to restore other populations, such as salmon in the Pacific Northwest.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Marine Mammal Protection Act?

The Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) is a U.S. Federal law enacted in 1972 to prevent marine mammal species and population stocks from declining beyond the point where they cease to be significant functioning elements of the ecosystems of which they are a part.

Who proposed changes to the MMPA?

Congressman Nick Begich III of Alaska proposed a bill to amend the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972.

What is the “incidental take” provision?

The “incidental take” provision of the MMPA requires permits for activities that may harm marine mammals, such as the use of airguns for oil exploration, and allows wildlife agencies to recommend measures to minimize adverse impacts.

How will balancing economic interests with marine mammal protection affect the future of our oceans?