The Biden administration's proposed speed restrictions for vessels over 35 feet, intended to protect endangered right whales, are causing significant concern among coastal business owners. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) proposal would limit boat speeds to 11 mph for up to seven months of the year and extend as far as 100 miles offshore along the East Coast.
Charter boat operators like Freddy Gamboa in Point Pleasant, New Jersey, worry about the impact on their businesses. Gamboa explains that clients "pay for the speed" to reach fishing grounds quickly, and the restrictions could lead to a significant loss of trips and revenue. He estimates a potential loss of 70 trips and $150,000.
The impact extends beyond charter fishing. Coastal towns rely heavily on boat tourism. Andy Joseph, owner of a harbor-side restaurant, highlights the significance of commercial and recreational fishing to his business model. Brian Stensland, owner of a long-standing fishing supply store, fears closure due to decreased foot traffic.
The hospitality industry also anticipates a negative ripple effect. Rich Billotti, a motel owner, notes that guests frequently book rooms before and after fishing trips. The speed restrictions could deter these trips and harm the entire Jersey Shore hospitality sector, and potentially the entire East Coast.
The Marine Manufacturers Association estimates that the rule could jeopardize 340,000 jobs and $84 billion in boat tourism revenue. While NOAA acknowledges the critical status of the right whale population, with only around 350 remaining, critics question the effectiveness of the proposal. They point out that only five whale strikes from boats under 65 feet have occurred in the past 15 years.
Rep. Buddy Carter (R-GA) and Rep. Mary Peltola (D-AK) have introduced a bill to defund the rule, arguing that it unfairly burdens coastal economies and ports while offering minimal benefit to right whales. Carter emphasizes the importance of balancing environmental protection with economic realities.
Gamboa voices support for the defunding effort, predicting widespread devastation for coastal communities from Boston to Florida if the rule is implemented.
