Copyright 2003:
Jagermeer Media LLC & Joseph M. Cocozza
Marine
Mammal Protection Act and NOAA’s Office of Law
Enforcement.
The Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) is the principal Federal
legislation that guides marine mammal species protection and
conservation policy. The MMPA vests responsibility for most marine
mammals to the U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Oceanic
and Atmospheric Administration. Within NOAA, the National Marine
Fisheries Service is responsible for management and conservation of
species of whales, dolphins, porpoises and pinapeds (seals, sea
lions and fur seals).
Enforcement of the MMPA is charged to the OLE (Office for Law
Enforcement) The NOAA OLE is the federal law enforcement agency
responsible for the protection of the nation's living marine
resources.
The OLE employs a variety of measures and activities to educate the
public, ensure compliance, deter potential violators and penalize
violators. From 60 field offices, special agents and enforcement,
officers conduct patrols, investigations and perform dockside
inspections. Through education and outreach campaigns, the OLE
provides the opportunity to maintain close ties to the public
specifically: authorized stranding centers, local communities,
non-governmental organizations, the fishing industry, and students
of all ages. The OLE works closely with state partners, the US
Coast Guard, the US Customs Service and the various fishery
management councils to ensure fishery management plans are adhered
to and protected species are afforded the opportunity to rebuild
healthy populations.
By definition; harassment of a marine mammal includes; pursuit,
torment, annoyance, feeding, killing or attempting to do any of the
above. Any human activity, which alters the natural actions of the
animal can considered harassment. Violations of the Marine Mammal
Protection Act may result in civil penalties of up to $12,000 and
criminal fines of up to $20,000 and jail time.
To report a potential violation, a diver can contact NOAA
Fisheries, Office for Law Enforcement's hotline number at
800-853-1964, or contact your local environmental law enforcement
agency.
Special
thanks to NOAA OLE Special Agent Mark Oswald for his
assistance.