Photograph Whales Responsibly: New NOAA Permits for Marine Mammals Issued
Published Date: 1/20/2026
Notice
Summary
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration just issued new permits for marine mammal and endangered species research and photography. These permits let scientists and photographers study and document these animals responsibly, starting late 2025. This update affects researchers and wildlife photographers, ensuring their work follows the latest rules without extra environmental paperwork.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Research Center Permit Issued
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration issued a permit (file 22306) to the NMFS Southwest Fisheries Science Center on December 3, 2025 to conduct marine mammal and endangered species research under the Marine Mammal Protection Act and the Endangered Species Act. The activities covered by this permit were categorically excluded from the need to prepare an environmental assessment or environmental impact statement under NEPA. As required by the ESA, issuance was based on findings that the permit was applied for in good faith, will not disadvantage listed species, and is consistent with ESA section 2.
Wildlife Photographer Permit Issued
NOAA issued a permit (file 29134) to Emily McCulliss Photography on December 8, 2025 to conduct marine mammal and endangered species photography under the Marine Mammal Protection Act and the Endangered Species Act. The permitted activities are categorically excluded from needing an environmental assessment or environmental impact statement under NEPA, and the ESA issuance was based on findings that the permit was applied for in good faith and will not operate to the disadvantage of listed species.
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