BARTLETT COVE, ALASKA - Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve Acting Superintendent Tom Schaff announced today that the 13-knot vessel speed limit in the lower West Arm between Gilbert Peninsula and Gloomy Knob is being lifted. New temporary whale waters are being implemented near Tlingit Point and Russell Island to reflect shifting whale distribution. Recent sightings indicate that at least eight humpback whales are feeding consistently in these areas, putting them at risk of collisions with vessels. These updated operating requirements are effective from 5 AM Friday June 16th until further notice.New whale waters areas:
*
A 13-knot speed limit within 1.5 nautical mile of the point of land west of Tlingit Point
*
A 13-knot speed limit within 1 nautical mile of Russell Island
In addition, the following whale waters areas remain in effect:
*
The 13-knot speed limit within 1 nautical mile of North and South Marble Islands, implemented on June 7th
*
The 20-knot speed limit in Lower Bay Glacier Bay, implemented on May 15th, and vessels over 18 ft in length are required to remain at least 1 nautical mile from shore or mid-channel
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. Vessels should proceed cautiously in all areas where whales may be present. Whales may surface in unexpected locations, posing a hazard to both the vessel and the whale. Boaters are advised to 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: news press release whale waters
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service