Protecting the North Atlantic Right Whale
Learn about our comprehensive education and outreach initiative to protect the critically endangered North Atlantic Right Whale. We aim to increase boater awareness of safe speed guidelines, whale detection tools, and reporting resources to reduce vessel strikes.
Protecting the North Atlantic Right Whale
About Our Initiative
The North Atlantic Right Whale (NARW) population is critically endangered, with vessel strikes representing one of the leading causes of injury. Recent NOAA data shows that many recreational vessels under 65ft exceed voluntary 10 knot restrictions in seasonal management zones. This is due to limited awareness of the regulations, whale locations, and safe interaction practices.
Many boaters lack accessible, clear, and actionable education about whale detection tools, reporting resources, and safe speed guidelines. To address these gaps, the BoatU.S. Foundation will launch a multi-pronged education and outreach program designed to increase knowledge, influence boater behavior, and reduce the risk of vessel strikes.