Focus Area: Oceans

Feb 16, 2024

Critically endangered whale dies due to inaction of Biden administration

“She was found 20 miles off the coast, and we’ll probably never know exactly where she was hit,” said Erica Fuller, Senior Counsel at Conservation Law Foundation. “But what we do know, is that the seasonal speed zones need to be bigger and the regulated boats need to be smaller than the current rule. These deaths are tragic and preventable; it’s past time for regulators to move forward with the protections that these critically endangered whales need to survive.” 

A right whale swimming off the coast of New England
Feb 14, 2024

Maine Fishing Gear Found on Dead Right Whale

“Entanglements are a constant threat to right whales, cutting their lives short and painting a disheartening future for this species,” said Erica Fuller, CLF Senior Counsel. “There have been concerns about the threat Maine fishing gear poses to right whales for years. It’s time to move forward with new fishing practices to give these endangered whales a chance at survival.” 

Feb 13, 2024

Protections for North Atlantic Right Whales Overdue

“The saddest aspect of the last several years is the avoidable deaths of calves that didn’t even make it to their first birthday,” said Erica Fuller, senior counsel at Conservation Law Foundation. “Good intentions will not save right whales; a strong vessel speed rule will save right whales. The government needs to act with the urgency that the situation demands.”

Right whale "Nauset" and calf
Jan 10, 2024

North Atlantic Right Whale Calf Likely to Die from Vessel Strike Injuries

“There are so few right whales left that every death brings this species closer to extinction,” said CLF Senior Attorney Erica Fuller. “This calf isn’t even two months old and yet it’s not expected to live because the federal government has delayed meaningful action for more than a decade. NOAA must publish its final rule immediately and protect this majestic species before it disappears from our oceans forever.” 

A right whale adult and calf are seen swimming next to each other
Jan 03, 2024

Vineyard Wind Sends Power to Grid for First Time

“This is a historic moment that’s been years in the making,” said CLF President Bradley Campbell. “It’s proof positive that New England’s transition away from polluting fossil fuels and towards clean, renewable energy is underway in earnest. We must now quadruple the rate of clean energy deployment, and New England is where it can be done responsibly.”

An offshore wind turbine against a blue sky