Sep 25, 2019

U.N. Releases Dire Report on World’s Oceans

“This report is yet another reminder that dithering by world leaders in the face of the climate crisis is becoming more costly and deadly by the minute,” said Bradley Campbell, President of CLF. “Neither the stroke of a Sharpie nor well-intentioned rhetoric can avert or obscure the irreversible damage already done to our oceans and our security. Only a quantum leap in climate leadership can limit the scale of the catastrophe and avoid utter betrayal of future generations.” 

Ocean wave
Jul 09, 2019

Three Entangled Right Whales Spotted in Gulf of St. Lawrence

“There is no more time for half measures or endless meetings and discussions,” said CLF Senior Attorney Erica Fuller. “Critically endangered right whales can recover, but we need to stop killing them now. Both the U.S. and Canadian governments must take additional action to protect this majestic species before it disappears from our oceans forever.” 

Jun 05, 2019

First Right Whale Death of the Year Reported

“There are so few right whales left that every death brings this species closer to extinction,” said CLF Senior Attorney Erica Fuller. “The time for talk is over. Both the U.S. and Canadian governments need to protect this majestic species before it disappears from our oceans forever.”

Apr 26, 2019

Right Whale Protections Recommended at Stakeholder Meeting

“As we speak, there are two whales entangled in fishing gear 100 miles from this meeting,” said Erica Fuller, Senior Staff Attorney at CLF. “New England’s iconic whale can be saved if we’d simply stop allowing them to be killed year after year. Reducing and weakening the lines in the water is a start, but we need to go much further, much faster. Appropriate closures and ropeless fishing need to be part of the solution.”

North Atlantic right whale
Jan 23, 2019

Vineyard Wind, Conservation Groups Reach Historic Agreement to Protect Right Whales

“As we ask more of our oceans, we must ensure that we balance the critical need for clean energy with the protection of our majestic right whales and other marine species,” added Dr. Priscilla Brooks, Director of Ocean Conservation at CLF. “This agreement marks a significant step forward in responsible development of offshore wind energy.”

Oct 05, 2018

Court Rejects Fishing Industry Challenge to Ocean Monuments

“Today’s historic decision is a clear victory for our oceans and for the Atlantic’s only marine national monument,” said Peter Shelley, Senior Counsel at CLF. “This decision guarantees that one of the most fragile and scientifically important areas in the North Atlantic will be protected from destructive activities like oil drilling and industrial fishing. Protecting the Northeast Canyons and Seamounts ensures that we are leaving a proud legacy for the people of New England.”

Sep 25, 2018

Fishery Managers Vote to Enact Protections for Atlantic Herring

“The council is taking a bold step in choosing to manage herring differently, and it should be commended,” said Erica Fuller, Senior Attorney at CLF. “After years of requests from scientists, recreational fishermen and the public, this amendment recognizes the critical role this species plays in our ocean ecosystem. These rules will make a long-lasting difference for herring, its predators, and the businesses and communities that depend upon a healthy fishery and a healthy ocean.”

Sep 20, 2018

Student Art Competition to Focus on Ocean Health and Protection of Right Whales

“The goal of this challenge is to inspire a new generation of ocean advocates,” said Dr. Priscilla Brooks, Director of Ocean Conservation at CLF. “North Atlantic right whales are in crisis and could become extinct in our lifetime without immediate action. This iconic species contributes to the health of the ocean ecosystem, benefiting all of the communities surrounding the Gulf of Maine. We hope the contest will transform our youngest residents into lifelong activists who fight for healthy oceans and right whale protections.”

Jun 20, 2018

Repeal of National Ocean Policy Prioritizes Resource Exploitation Over Healthy Oceans

“The repeal of the National Ocean Policy is another attack in the Trump administration’s all-out assault on the nation’s public lands and oceans for the sake of private exploitation and profit,” said Dr. Priscilla Brooks, Director of Ocean Conservation at CLF. “This repeal ignores how smart, science-driven ocean management creates economic, recreational, and environmental benefits. We are incredibly disappointed by this reckless action.”