Protecting habitat for the endangered Rice’s Whale

I testified before the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) today in support of the agency’s proposal to designate critical habitat for the Rice’s Whales under the Endangered Species Act.

The Rice’s whale, also known as the Gulf of Mexico whale, is a remarkable marine mammal that calls the waters of the United States its year-round home. Unfortunately, the Rice’s whale is teetering on the edge of extinction due to human activities, particularly those associated with fossil fuel exploration and development. With only about 50 individuals remaining, urgent action is required to ensure the survival and recovery of this endangered species. The NMFS proposal is critical to saving this amazing creature.