As the population of Alaska's Cook Inlet beluga whales plummeted from over 1,200 in 1979 to only 326 in 2009, these iconic whales were finally listed as endangered in 2008.
Now, a new proposal announced by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) aims to protect more than 3,000 square miles of their aquatic home – and would give these struggling marine mammals the protections they need to survive.
But officials need to hear from you on their plan to protect these struggling whales' home. Please sign our petition to NOAA and urge them to adopt this proposal to help save the Cook Inlet beluga whales.
RIN 0648-AX50
Dear
[Decision Maker],
As a supporter of Defenders of Wildlife Action Fund and someone who cares about Alaska's iconic Cook Inlet beluga whales, I am writing to comment on the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's proposal to designate more than 3,000 square miles of critical habitat for these struggling marine mammals [RIN 0648-AX50].
The Cook Inlet beluga whales are running out of time. This genetically distinct beluga whale population has declined to fewer than 350 today -- down to just over one quarter of its population since 1979.
It's simple: endangered species cannot survive if their habitat is not protected. The plan to designate more than one-third of the Cook Inlet waters as critical habitat is a good first step for a lasting recovery for these whales.
To have the best chance at recovering Cook Inlet beluga whales, we must also act quickly to:
* Reduce their exposure to noise from development and industry in Cook Inlet.
* Determine which pollutants, if any, may be causing harm to these whales or their habitat.
* Ensure state and municipal governments and industry work together to create a recovery plan that protects and restores the Cook Inlet beluga population and local economies.
* Recognize that the health of Cook Inlet belugas is tied to a healthy marine habitat.
Thank you for accepting my comments on this important issue.
[Your personal comments will be added to this petition.]
