Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA), Endangered Species Act (ESA), and regulations for Scientific Research Permits

Abstract

The MMPA, ESA, and Fur Seal Act, mandate the protection and conservation of marine mammals and other protected species, and prohibit the taking, importation, and export of protected species. Exceptions for scientific research, enhancement, public display, and commercial and educational photography, are allowed under special exception permits or other appropriate authorizations issued under Section 10 of the ESA and Section 104 of the MMPA. Permit issuance must also meet NEPA, ESA Section 7, CITES, and where necessary, CZMA requirements. NOAA Fisheries develops and implements policies and regulations for issuance of permits and authorizations to take marine mammals for the activities noted above, and organizes and executes the national program for tracking captive marine mammals. Marine mammal permits are coordinated with NOAA Regional Offices, the Marine Mammal Commission, the Fish and Wildlife Service, and the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. Input on permit applications is received from other Federal, State, and local agencies, the academic community, public display institutions, nongovernmental organizations, and the general public. NOAA fisheries coordinates national policy for minimizing harassment from human recreational activities directed at marine mammals and conducts outreach to the public about the permit program and responsible wildlife viewing practices.