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FWC Receives Grant to Help Save Whale Species

North Atlantic Right Whale | Environment | Endangered Species

The North Atlantic right whale is critically endangered, with only an estimated 450 individuals remaining.

WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Rep. Charlie Crist, D-St. Petersburg, announced a $400,000 grant to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to be used for North Atlantic right whale recovery in the Southeastern U.S.

The North Atlantic right whale is critically endangered, with only an estimated 450 individuals remaining.

Allocated by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, these funds will allow for continuation of the automatic identification system to monitor vessel traffic and better enforce speed restrictions. Funds will also be used to help stranded or injured right whales, as well as perform boat surveys and whale biopsies for research purposes.

“Much like our beautiful seabirds, right whales travel great distances to escape the cold and enjoy our warm waters. Glimpsing these majestic creatures off the coast of Florida is a privilege, but sadly, it is becoming rarer each year,” Crist said.

“This grant will fund research into the threats right whales are facing in our waters, while also supporting the rescue of injured animals so the right whale population in the Southeastern U.S.l is able to recover and, eventually, thrive.”

Crist represents Florida’s 13th Congressional District, which includes south and mid-Pinellas County.

For information about Crist, go to crist.house.gov.

North Atlantic Right Whale | Environment | Endangered Species | Charlie Crist | Tampabay News

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