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OCTOBER 30, 2000

A migrating young beluga whale being tracked by the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) in Alaska is helping raise the issue of whether or not the species should be listed as endangered.

The population of belugas in Cook Inlet has dropped significantly during the past decade. But the NMFS isn't listing it as endangered, just as depleted, which isn't as harsh.

The NMFS considers it depleted because they are planning on adopting new rules limiting the harvesting of beluga, including by Alaska Natives. Natives from Tyonek are allowed to take one this year, according to an agreement.

A new plan would limit all Native hunting to two whales each season for the next 25 years. However, environmental groups and a former Native hunter are suing the NMFS, saying the species should be listed as endangered.

Comments on the beluga draft environmental impact statement (EIS) are due by the end of the business day at the NMFS office in Baltimore, Maryland on November 27. Testimony on the plan will be held on December 5 in Anchorage, Alaska.

Get the EIS / Info about hearings:
ublic Hearing Regarding the Proposed Regulations and Draft EIS (NMFS)

Get the Story:
Beluga touring Cook Inlet (The Anchorage Daily News 10/30)

Related Stories:
Whale beaten to death (Enviro 09/26)
State: Whales not endangered (Enviro 07/14)
Beluga in danger (Enviro 06/01)

Relevant Links:
Cook Inlet Beluga Whales, Agreements, Laws, Information - www.fakr.noaa.gov/protectedresources/whales/beluga.htm
The National Marine Fisheries Service - www.nmfs.gov