Feds Approve New Permits to Film Whales and Seals
Published Date: 5/21/2026
Notice
Summary
The government just gave out new permits to researchers and organizations studying marine mammals and endangered species. These permits let them continue important work like filming, studying, and caring for these animals, with some updates happening this year. If you’re involved, keep an eye on deadlines and rules to stay in the game without surprises or extra costs.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Permits Issued to Named Applicants
NOAA issued permits under the Marine Mammal Protection Act and the Endangered Species Act to specific applicants. Examples in the notice include Christopher Cilfone (Kohola Film Project) File No. 23966 (issuance date September 10, 2021), University of Alaska Southeast (File No. 24378, issuance date April 17, 2026), Minnesota Zoological Gardens (File No. 28985, issuance date February 23, 2026), Alaska Department of Fish and Game (File No. 29017, issuance date September 16, 2025), University of Florida (File No. 29070, issuance date February 9, 2026), Briana Witteveen / University of Alaska Fairbanks (File No. 29154, issuance date February 9, 2026), Fort Wayne Zoo (File No. 29471, issuance date February 10, 2026), and Mission Partners Entertainment (File No. 29565, issuance date March 12, 2026).
NEPA Categorical Exclusion Applied
NOAA determined that the activities proposed in these permit applications are categorically excluded from the requirement to prepare an environmental assessment or environmental impact statement under the National Environmental Policy Act. The notice states a final determination of categorical exclusion was made in compliance with NEPA.
ESA Findings Supported Permit Issuance
As required by the Endangered Species Act, NOAA issued the permits based on findings that each application was made in good faith, will not operate to the disadvantage of endangered species, and is consistent with the purposes and policies in section 2 of the ESA. The notice cites these three specific ESA conditions as the basis for issuance.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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