NOAA OKs Drone Patrols for Whale and Dolphin Studies
Published Date: 3/12/2026
Notice
Summary
In 2025, NOAA gave special permission letters to scientists and groups to study marine mammals like dolphins and whales without harming them. These Letters of Confirmation let researchers use cool tools like drones to learn more about these amazing animals. This helps science while keeping marine mammals safe, with no extra costs or delays for the public.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 4 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
2025 Letters Allow Level B Research
In calendar year 2025, NOAA issued Letters of Confirmation (LOCs) under the General Authorization for Scientific Research that authorize bona fide scientific research that may result only in Level B harassment of marine mammals. The LOCs explicitly authorize activities such as vessel, ground, and aerial surveys, photo-identification, counts, behavioral observations, passive acoustic monitoring, and focal follows for named species and locations.
Drones (UAS) Added to Some LOCs
Several amended LOCs explicitly add unmanned aircraft systems (UAS, drones) as an authorized research method. For example, Florida Atlantic University's amended LOC (File No. 23069-02) adds a UAS and extends the LOC duration to March 31, 2027; Shoals Marine Laboratory's LOC (File No. 25751-01) also added UAS on April 17, 2025.
Authorized Biological Sample Collection
At least one LOC (File No. 28851, Makah Tribe) expressly authorizes collection of biological materials (blow, feces, scat, sloughed skin, and spew) during vessel and ground surveys in U.S. waters of Alaska and the U.S. West Coast; that LOC takes effect October 1, 2025 and is valid through September 30, 2035.
Multi-Year LOC Expirations Granted
Multiple LOCs issued in 2025 have multi-year expiration dates, giving long-term authorization for research. Examples include LOCs expiring on January 31, 2030 (File No. 28083), April 30, 2030 (File No. 28412), May 31, 2033 (File No. 28905), and several LOCs with expirations in 2035 (e.g., File Nos. 28797, 28811, 29177).
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