NOAA Fisheries News Releases
NEWS RELEASE
May 5, 2000
Carol Tocco, Public Affairs NMFS
(907) 586-7032
PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT "Beluga Watch 2000"
This message from the NOAA Fisheries Office for Law Enforcement requests your help to protect belugas whales in Cook Inlet.
Cook Inlet beluga whales have been identified as a unique and separate stock of whales, migrating every spring into upper Cook Inlet. This population has declined from over 1000 to an estimated 357 whales. Based on this dramatic decline, they are being given special protection under the Marine Mammal Protection Act.
Traditional subsistence hunting is now suspended. Furthermore, all forms of harassment or hunting are strictly prohibited in Cook Inlet. Local residents and visitors can be extra eyes and ears while on a scenic boat cruise, sportfishing trip, or flying over the Cook Inlet area.
You are encouraged to report any actual or suspected harassment or hunting activity in or near Cook Inlet to our toll free hotline number 1-800-853-1964 or the NOAA Fisheries Enforcement office at 907 271-3021. You can remain anonymous and a reward of up to $2500.00 is being offered for information leading to a conviction of person (s) who attempt to harass or kill a beluga whale.
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KEY POINTS
**Cook Inlet beluga whales are a unique and separate stock
**These whales are depleted as defined under the Marine Mammal Protection Act
**ALL harassment or hunting is prohibited by law
**Protection for Cook Inlet beluga whales will be strictly enforced