BARTLETT COVE, ALASKA - Glacier Bay National Park and Deputy Superintendent Tom Schaff announced today that the 13-knot “whale waters" vessel speed limit in the lower West Arm is being lifted. New temporary whale waters are being implemented near Garforth, Willoughby, and Francis Islands to reflect shifting whale distribution. These updated operating requirements are effective from 5 AM Wednesday August 3rd until further notice.
New whale waters areas:
* A 13-knot speed limit within 1 nautical mile of Garforth Island
* A 13-knot speed limit within 1 nautical mile of Willoughy and Francis Islands
In addition, the following whale waters areas remain in effect:
* The 13-knot speed limit within 1 nautical mile of Sturgess Island, implemented on June 18th.
* The 13-knot speed limit in waters within 1 nautical mile of shore of Russell Island, implemented on July 9th.
* In Lower Glacier Bay, the 13-knot speed remains in effect, and vessels 18 ft or more in length are required to remain at least 1 nautical mile from shore or mid-channel.
Recent observations indicate that numerous humpback whales are feeding in these areas. Speed and course restrictions in whale waters are intended to reduce the disruption of feeding humpback whales and to lower the risk of whale/vessel collisions, as authorized by Title 36 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Subpart N, 13.1174. Whales may surface in unexpected locations, and vessels should proceed cautiously in all areas where whales may be present. Boaters may verify whale waters designations prior to entering Glacier Bay by telephoning (907) 697-2627 or by contacting KWM20 Bartlett Cove on marine VHF radio.
Tags: whale waters news release news alaska glacier bay national park and preserve
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
