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Marine Mammal Authorization Program (MMAP)

The Marine Mammal Authorization Program (MMAP) allows commercial fisheries 
to lawfully and incidentally take a marine mammal. The primary goals of the Marine Mammal Authorization Program are to: 1.) exempt commercial fishermen from Marine Mammal Protection Act prohibitions for incidental take of marine mammals, 2.) educate and inform fishermen about marine mammal interactions; and 3.) increase fishermen self-reporting of incidental takes. 

Those affected by the MMAP are required to:

  • carry a Marine Mammal Authorization Certificate as proof of registration;
  • report any serious injury or death of a marine mammal within 48 hours;
  • carry a fisheries observer when requested by NOAA Fisheries.

Contact Us

Marine Mammal Authorization Program Hotline
Phone: (727) 209-5952

  • MMAP questions
  • Authorization Certificate
  • Marine Mammals Serious Injury or Mortality Reporting Form
MMAP for Category I & II Fisheries

Commercial fishermen in Category I or II fisheries on the List of Fisheries are automatically registered and required by law to carry a Marine Mammal Authorization Certificate when fishing.

Marine Mammal Authorization Certificate

Download Authorization Certificates or contact the MMAP hotline (727-209-5952) to have one mailed to you. Certificates are available December of each year and must be onboard by January 1 of each calendar year.

Reporting a Marine Mammal Injury or Death

Fishermen on the List of Fisheries must report any serious injury or death of a marine mammal that occurs during fishing operations.  Mortality/ Injury Reporting Form must be filed (either online or using a printed form) within 48 hours of returning to port.

Observer Program

Under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, all Category I or II fishery participants must carry an observer on fishing trips when requested by NOAA Fisheries or a designated contractor. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Learn more about the MMAP and how it affects you.  Still can’t find the answer? Call the MMAP Hotline: 727-209-5952

Marine Mammal Take Reduction Program

Take Reduction Plans are developed to prevent the depletion and assist in the recovery of certain marine mammal stocks that are seriously injured or killed in commercial fisheries.