NOAA Hands Out Two More Marine Mammal Research Permits
Published Date: 6/23/2026
Notice
Summary
The government just gave special permits to two research groups studying marine mammals and endangered species. These permits let them do important work like tracking and protecting animals without breaking the rules. The changes mainly affect scientists at the University of California and the University of Alaska, with no extra costs or delays expected.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
UC Santa Cruz Research Permit Issued
NOAA issued a research permit (File No. 25770) to the Institute of Marine Sciences, University of California at Santa Cruz. The Federal Register notice for this file is 86 FR 70828 (May 18, 2026) and the permit lists an issuance date of December 13, 2021. The permit authorizes research activities under the Marine Mammal Protection Act and the Endangered Species Act and is described as not requiring an environmental assessment under NEPA.
University of Alaska Permit Issued
NOAA issued a research permit (File No. 29433) to the University of Alaska Museum of the North (Responsible Party: Link Olson, Ph.D.). The Federal Register notice for this file is 91 FR 12759 (May 11, 2026) and the permit lists an issuance date of March 17, 2026. The permit authorizes activities under the Marine Mammal Protection Act and the Endangered Species Act and was categorically excluded from NEPA environmental assessment.
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