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).
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Personalize government policy and PRIA will tell you what this federal register document means for your household, plus every other regulation we track. PRIA reads each provision against your financial profile to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-14204, Lake Ontario National Marine Sanctuary; Delay of Effective Date
NOAA is giving everyone more time before the rule that bans grappling or anchoring on Lake Ontario shipwrecks kicks in. Instead of starting in July 2026, this rule is now delayed until September 2028 to let NOAA set up mooring buoys and work with divers and boaters. This means boaters and commercial vessels can keep anchoring safely while NOAA gets everything ready without rushing.
2026-14195, Rescinding the Definition of “Harm” Under the Endangered Species Act
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration are wiping away the official definition of “harm” under the Endangered Species Act starting September 14, 2026. This change affects anyone involved in protecting endangered plants and animals by shifting how “harm” is understood and enforced. It’s a big move that could change how projects and protections are handled, but no new costs or deadlines are added right now.
2026-05599, Deep Seabed Mining: Notice of Receipt of Applications for Deep Seabed Mining Exploration Licenses and Announcement of Public Comment Period and Virtual Public Hearings
NOAA got two applications from companies wanting to explore mining deep under the ocean floor. They’re holding virtual public meetings in April and want your thoughts by May 22, 2026. This affects anyone interested in ocean mining and how we protect our seas while exploring new resources.
2026-04256, Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; Spatial Fisheries Management; Amendment 15 to the 2006 Consolidated Atlantic Highly Migratory Species Fishery Management Plan
Starting April 3, 2026, new rules change shark fishing zones and times in the Atlantic to better protect sharks and manage fishing risks. Fishermen using bottom and pelagic longline gear will see updated area boundaries and must pay for electronic monitoring if fishing in certain safer zones. These changes help keep shark populations healthy while supporting responsible fishing.
2026-17247, Western Pacific Fishery Management Council; Public Meetings
The Western Pacific Fishery Management Council is holding important meetings from September 8 to 17, 2026, to discuss and decide on fishing rules in the Western Pacific. These meetings affect fishermen, local communities, and businesses by shaping how fish are managed and protected. Public comments are welcome by September 10, and the meetings will be both in-person and online, making it easy to join and stay informed.
2026-17248, Pacific Fishery Management Council; Public Meetings
The Pacific Fishery Management Council is holding public meetings from September 16-21, 2026, in Vancouver, Washington, and online. These meetings affect fishermen, environmental groups, and coastal communities by discussing fishery rules, budgets, and habitat protection. You can join live, comment remotely, and stay updated on important fishery decisions that might impact fishing seasons and local economies.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-04793, Agreement Between the Government of the United States of America and the Government of Belize for Cooperation Regarding the Examination of Protection Requests
The U.S. and Belize have teamed up to work together on reviewing protection requests, like asylum claims, starting right after their agreement in October 2025. This means people seeking protection might see faster, clearer decisions thanks to both countries sharing info and helping each other. It affects anyone applying for protection in either country and aims to make the process smoother without extra costs right now.
Next: 2026-04795, Information Collection Being Reviewed by the Federal Communications Commission
The FCC is checking in on its paperwork rules for businesses and nonprofits that fill out telecom forms. They want your thoughts on how to make these forms easier and less time-consuming, especially for small businesses. If you have ideas, send them in by May 11, 2026—this could save time and money for thousands of folks!