Coast Guard Reports Surge in Boat Strikes, Raising Concerns for Marine Wildlife and Boaters
The U.S. Coast Guard documented 20 boat strikes involving marine mammals and sea turtles across U.S. waters in just three months – from August 1 to October 31, 2023 – a significant increase prompting heightened warnings to boaters and renewed efforts to protect vulnerable species. The incidents, reported by Coast Guard sectors nationwide, resulted in both confirmed fatalities and injuries to animals including whales, dolphins, and sea turtles.
This spike in strikes underscores growing concerns about the intersection of recreational boating activity and the habitats of protected marine life. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Governance (NOAA) estimates that vessel strikes are a leading cause of death for several whale species, particularly North Atlantic right whales, of which fewer than 350 remain. The recent surge is prompting increased collaboration between the Coast Guard, NOAA, and state wildlife agencies to implement preventative measures and raise awareness among boaters.
The reported incidents occurred in a variety of locations, including Florida, Massachusetts, and California. Florida accounted for the highest number of reported strikes with seven incidents, followed by Massachusetts with five. Species impacted included bottlenose dolphins, humpback whales, and loggerhead sea turtles. The Coast Guard is urging boaters to maintain vigilant watch, reduce speed in known marine mammal habitats, and report any strikes immediately.
“Vessel strikes are a serious threat to marine mammals and sea turtles,” said a Coast Guard spokesperson. “We are working with our partners to educate boaters and encourage responsible behavior to minimize these incidents.” NOAA Fisheries provides resources for boaters,including maps of critical habitat areas and guidelines for safe boating practices around marine life. The agency also encourages the use of whale reporting apps to help track whale movements and alert boaters to their presence.
