The endangered baleen whale of the western North Atlantic
The European Union has announced a substantial investment in ocean observation, positioning Europe at the forefront of marine monitoring as the United States proceeds with the dismantling of the Ocean Observatories Initiative. The NSF has begun a descope of the OOI, pulling instruments from multiple U.S. sites while the EU commits hundreds of millions to expand global ocean data networks.
Environmental groups warn that delaying protections risks the survival of North Atlantic right whales, of which about 380 remain. The House Natural Resources Committee has voted to extend the moratorium on new right whale rules to 2035, with a full congressional vote expected soon. Proponents cite data-gathering needs while opponents warn the fishing industry could bear the economic burden. The debate follows a pause in regulations set to last until 2028.
The New Bedford Whaling Museum has embraced a negative Google review, releasing merchandise that features the line and a whale skeleton. The design has attracted national attention after a CBS Evening News segment, driving a surge in online orders and restocking demands.
New England plaintiffs have sued the Monterey Bay Aquarium over its Seafood Watch red list for lobster. The 1st U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals is evaluating whether the defamation claim may proceed, with judges debating First Amendment implications.