What is the Marine Mammal Protection Act?

The Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) is a law that was passed in 1972 to protect marine mammals such as whales, dolphins, seals, sea lions, walruses, and manatees. It prohibits the hunting, capturing, and killing of these animals and their products, as well as the intentional disturbance of their habitat and activities. It also prohibits the transport of animals across state lines for commercial purposes. The law applies to all species of marine mammals, including those native to the state of Florida. The MMPA also provides for the conservation of marine mammals by the establishment of protection zones and recovery plans for those species that are in danger of becoming extinct. It also regulates the activities of fisheries, oil and gas exploration, and shipping that could impact the health of marine mammals. The purpose of the MMPA is to ensure the protection and conservation of marine mammals and their habitats, while also allowing for the lawful use and enjoyment of the marine environment. In Florida, various organizations and governmental entities, including the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission are responsible for implementing and enforcing the MMPA.

Related FAQs

What is the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act?
How does environmental law protect water quality?
What is the Clean Power Plan?
What is the National Environmental Protection Act (NEPA)?
What is the Endangered Species Act?
What is the Clean Water Act?
What is the Environmental Justice Movement?
What is the Pollution Prevention Act?
How does environmental law protect air quality?
What is the Solid Waste Disposal Act?

What is the Marine Mammal Protection Act?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts