June 2024 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

new research article: Combining potential and realized distribution modeling of telemetry data for a bycatch risk assessment
by Ellen M Hines 25 Jun '24

25 Jun '24

Dear Colleagues, on behalf of my co-authors, we are excited to bring you this new open-source article from the Hines lab and Lenfest Oceans project on marine mammal bycatch in Chilean fisheries. https://doi.org/10.1002/ece3.11541 Combining potential and realized distribution modeling of telemetry data for a bycatch risk assessment Abstract Establishing marine species distributions is essential for guiding management and can be estimated by identifying potential favorable habitat at a population level and incorporating individual-level information (e.g., movement constraints) to inform realized space use. In this research, we applied a combined modeling approach to tracking data of adult female and juvenile South American sea lions (Otaria flavescens; n = 9) from July to November 2011 to make habitat predictions for populations in northern Chile. We incorporated topographic and oceanographic predictors with sea lion locations and environmentally based pseudo-absences in a generalized linear model for estimating population-level distribution. For the individual approach, we used a generalized linear mixed-effects model with a negative exponential kernel variable to quantify distance-dependent movement from the colony. Spatial predictions from both approaches were combined in a bivariate color map to identify areas of agreement. We then used a GIS-based risk model to characterize bycatch risk in industrial and artisanal purse-seine fisheries based on fishing set data from scientific observers and artisanal fleet logs (2010–2015), the bivariate sea lion distribution map, and criteria ratings of interaction characteristics. Our results indicate population-level associations with productive, shallow, low slope waters, near to river-mouths, and with high eddy activity. Individual distribution was restricted to shallow slopes and cool waters. Variation between approaches may reflect intrinsic factors restricting use of otherwise favorable habitat; however, sample size was limited, and additional data are needed to establish the full range of individual-level distributions. Our bycatch risk outputs identified highest risk from industrial fisheries operating nearshore (within 5 NM) and risk was lower, overall, for the artisanal fleet. This research demonstrates the potential for integrating potential and realized distribution models within a spatial risk assessment and fills a gap in knowledge on this species' distribution, providing a basis for targeting bycatch mitigation outreach and interventions. Ellen Hines, PhD Estuary & Ocean Science Center Professor Emeritus, School of the Environment San Francisco State University 3150 Paradise Dr Tiburon, CA. 94940 ehines(a)sfsu.edu<mailto:ehines@sfsu.edu> https://eoscenter.sfsu.edu/ellen-hines Adjunct Scientist: Center for Coastal Studies, Provincetown, MA

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New publication on dolphin interactions with bottom-set net fisheries in Southern Iberian Atlantic waters (Ana Marçalo)
by Ana Marçalo 25 Jun '24

25 Jun '24

Dear colleagues, On behalf of myself and my co-authors, I am happy to inform you of our last research published by the scientific journal Fisheries Research. Ana Marçalo, Vighnesh Samel, Flávia Carvalho, Magda Frade, Karim Erzini, Jorge MS Gonçalves, Evaluating dolphin interactions with bottom-set net fisheries off Southern Iberian Atlantic waters, Fisheries Research, Volume 278, 2024, 107100, ISSN 0165-7836, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fishres.2024.107100. (https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0165783624001644) Abstract: The present study, covering 2018–2022, evaluated the cetacean interactions with a bottom-set net fishery along the mainland Portuguese Southern coast (Algarve), estimating bycatch, depredation, gear damage and net length influence on Landing per Unit Effort (LPUE). The fishery employed various métiers (gillnets - mesh sizes: < 60, 60–75, 80 and 220 mm; trammel nets - 120 inner and 640 mm outer panels). Observations from 655 hauls revealed depredation by bottlenose dolphins in 17.7 % of hauls, while bycatch (isolated events of 4 bottlenose dolphins and one common dolphin) occurred in < 1 %. Depredation typically results in heavy damage to the net and occurs throughout the year, with elevated rates observed during the spring and winter months. Depredation rates varied among métiers, being higher in gears targeting red mullet and hake. The impact of depredation on LPUE varied based on net length and the targeted fish species. However, when comparing LPUE in hauls without depredation, there was no significant influence on the total and hake LPUE for nets shorter or longer than 6 km (p > 0.05). Interestingly, in hauls targeting red mullets without depredation, nets shorter than 6 km had a significantly higher LPUE (p < 0.01) compared to nets 6 km or longer, suggesting that longer nets increase fishing effort due to prolonged soaking times and a higher likelihood of depredation. Keywords: Bycatch; Bottom-set nets; Depredation; Dolphins; Fisheries interactions; Fisheries métiers Please feel free to contact me for further questions or to request a pdf copy at:amarcalo@ualg.pt best wishes, *Ana Marçalo* Fisheries Biologist/Researcher, PhD Fisheries, Biodiversity and Conservation / Coastal Fisheries Research group Tel: +351 967307539 *CCMAR - Centro de Ciências do Mar do Algarve* Universidade do Algarve - Campus de Gambelas Building 7 - Office 2.89 8005-139 Faro (see map <http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=pt-PT&geocode=&q=ccmar,+faro,…> ) [image: Logo Description automatically generated] <http://ccmar.ualg.pt/>

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Job Opening | The Marine Mammal Center
by Sarah Tatum 24 Jun '24

24 Jun '24

Greetings All, The Marine Mammal Center is hiring a Life Support Systems & Facilites Senior Technician! Location of Position: Marin Headlands, Sausalito, California Reports to: Associate Director, Life Support Systems & Facilities Position Classification / Expected Time commitment and work schedule: * Full-time, Exempt position * Regular onsite work is required. * Evening, weekend, and holiday work is required. * Position is part of a rotating on-call and weekend coverage schedule. * Occasional travel to satellite facilities and/or fieldwork is required. Compensation Range: $74,880 - $90,500 annually Benefits: Full Benefits Job Summary: The Senior Life Support Systems & Facilities (LSSF) Senior Technician primarily coordinates the completion of workforce-generated work orders, scheduled preventative maintenance, identifies, coordinates, and completes capital projects, and supervises LSSF volunteer workforce. This position works closely with other LSSF staff to support daily operations, including filter backwashes, system line-up changes, troubleshooting faulty life support equipment, routine building equipment maintenance. This position works closely with the Director of Life Support Systems & Facilities and the Associate Director of Life Support Systems & Facilities to manage projects, identify maintenance needs and determine preventative maintenance schedules. Certifications and/or Licenses: * Aquatic Animal Life Support Operators (AALSO) Level II operator preferred or the ability to obtain within two years. * Valid driver license with acceptable motor vehicle record to maintain standards of insurability. * Ability to complete forklift certification course within 6 months upon hire. * Proof of COVID-19 Vaccination or waiver (medical or religious) * Respirator Fit Test required which will be provided upon hire. Preferred Education and Experience: This position requires a combination of education and/or experience equivalent to a bachelor’s degree in engineering, sciences, or other related field; and 6 years of practical experience working with institutional water treatment and filtration, or experience with aquaculture, marine mammal, or institutional aquarium life support systems, or related technical field. To view the full Job Posting and to apply, visit this link: Job Posting<https://recruiting.paylocity.com/recruiting/jobs/Details/2537374/Marine-Mam…> ABOUT THE MARINE MAMMAL CENTER The Marine Mammal Center is leading the field in ocean conservation through marine mammal rescue, veterinary medicine, science, and education. For more information, please visit our “About Us” page at www.marinemammalcenter.org<https://www.marinemammalcenter.org/about-us/what-we-do> Thank you! Sarah [Icon Description automatically generated with low confidence] Sarah Tatum (she-her) Human Resources Operations Coordinator TatumS(a)tmmc.org<mailto:tatums@tmmc.org> | MarineMammalCenter.org<http://www.marinemammalcenter.org/> The Marine Mammal Center, 2000 Bunker Road, Sausalito, CA 94965

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DOLPHIN RESEARCH INTERNSHIP IN PORTUGAL
by AIMM Internships 24 Jun '24

24 Jun '24

*DOLPHIN RESEARCH INTERNSHIP IN PORTUGAL* *BACKGROUND: *The Marine Environment Research Association - AIMM, is a non-profit, non-governmental organization focused on the research and conservation of marine species, running an ongoing study of cetaceans in southern Portugal (Algarve). This project aims to obtain baseline information on species occurrence, behavior, and social structure of the local cetacean populations in order to obtain scientific data to support conservation measures and inform marine management policies. The main species observed are Short-beaked common dolphins (Delphinus delphis), Bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus), and Harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena), although other species such as Minke whales (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) and Fin whales (Balaenoptera physalus) can also be sighted. AIMM Interns are young, hard-working individuals who are willing to contribute to the association and support on-going activities, while experiencing fieldwork at sea, learning data collection and processing methodologies, and being a part of AIMM's team of researchers and marine biologists. All team members and participants share accommodation, house tasks, knowledge and experience in an friendly and multicultural environment. Interns have the additional option to enrich their time with AIMM by beginning or improving their SCUBA skills with a PADI-certified instructor, hiking, kayaking, surf classes and others. *WHERE:* Albufeira, Algarve, Portugal *WHEN:* The field season lasts from May to end of November 2024. The minimum internship attendance is 7 days. *FIELDWORK: *The field trips are conducted in AIMM's research vessel, Ketos, commercial dolphin watching boats and from the shore. Fieldwork is dependent on weather conditions. The field days can be intense, especially in the peak of summer but are fulfilling and good fun. The interns will be trained to: - Conduct on-board surveys of marine species occurrence; - Record effort tracks on a handheld GPS; - Access and collect environmental data; - Collect data on behavior, group size, species, etc.; - Collect photos to photo-identification, acoustic recording, and underwater videos; - Help to collect of drone footage from the marine mammals; - Land base monitoring of marine mammals. *DATA ANALYSIS: *This will be conducted on a daily basis and will entail entering data into established databases and spreadsheets, photo-identification processing, and preliminary data interpretation. *INTERNSHIP FEES:* AIMM is a non-profit organization that relies on donations from our volunteers, partners, and conservation-minded people like you so that we may continue our important research and education programs in the Algarve. This internship requires a monetary contribution which is used to off-set the cost of accommodation and running a non-profit. For more information on internship fees for the 2024 season, please contact: interns(a)aimmportugal.org *Included* in the fee is: - Accommodation in AIMM field station; - Transportation to/from the marina; - All meals at home (breakfast, lunch, and dinner); - Fieldwork; - Theoretical classes. *Not included* in the fee is: - Transportation to/from Albufeira; - Meals in restaurants; - Free time activities; - Personal insurance (all participants should have health and/or travel insurance); - Others personal expenses. *INTERNS ARE EXPECTED TO:* - Be above the age of 16; - Have a mature attitude towards marine mammal research and environment; - Be autonomous and flexible; - Be able to live and work in an international team and mainly outdoors at sea; - Speak English; - Participate for minimum 7 days. *Preference will be given* to those who have: - Relevant marine mammal field experience - Working experience on research vessels - Experience working from dolphin/whale watching platforms - Experience in photo-identification - Availability to stay for longer periods of time *INTERNSHIP APPLICATION: * You can apply on AIMM website here <http://www.aimmportugal.org/opportunities/dolphin-research-internship/>*.* *or * Send us an e-mail to: interns(a)aimmportugal.org, with the subject “*DOLPHIN RESEARCH INTERNSHIP*” with your CV and motivation letter. We will send you a confirmation email with the availability and all the other details. Applications will be accepted during all season. However, early application is recommended due to limited vacancies. The follow links are a shorts videos about the internship in Albufeira. You get a different perspective and feedback from old participants about it: http://bit.ly/aimm-movie <https://bit.ly/AIMM-movie> https://youtu.be/hTJJQPHBdI0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4zTIEQEsftA *Contacts*: interns(a)aimmportugal.org | www.aimmportugal.org | Thank you, <http://aimm-marineresearch.blogspot.com/> [image: Logo AIMM] <https://www.aimmportugal.org/> Associação para Investigação do Meio Marinho *Marine Environment Research Association* m: (00351) 915013285 e: interns(a)aimmportugal.org www.aimmportugal.org <https://www.facebook.com/AIMM.org> <https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8jcTONJZsvaQ3tZiQtRFNQ> <https://www.linkedin.com/company/aimm-portugal---marine-environment-researc…> <https://www.instagram.com/aimmportugal_org/>

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Workshop at the Perth Biennial: Using the Bycatch Risk Assessment toolkit with varying amounts of information
by Ellen M Hines 21 Jun '24

21 Jun '24

Greetings all, based on our experiences in Chilean fisheries, see the link below, we are giving a workshop in how to use the Bycatch Risk Assessment Toolkit (ByRA) with varying amounts of data on gear and species. (https://www.lenfestocean.org/en/news-and-publications/fact-sheet/new-resear… The workshop will be Sunday afternoon, from 13:30-17:30. Please let us know any questions. [https://www.lenfestocean.org/-/media/post-launch-images/2021/04/delfn-comn_…]<https://www.lenfestocean.org/en/news-and-publications/fact-sheet/new-resear…> New Research to Assess Marine Mammal Bycatch Risk in Chile<https://www.lenfestocean.org/en/news-and-publications/fact-sheet/new-resear…> In order to reduce marine mammal bycatch in Chile, managers and scientists need to assess existing data to prioritize when and where regulations and monitoring efforts could be most useful. www.lenfestocean.org  Ellen Hines Estuary & Ocean Science Center, San Francisco State University ehines(a)sfsu.edu<mailto:ehines@sfsu.edu> Maritza Sepulveda University of Valparaiso maritza.sepulveda(a)uv.cl<mailto:maritza.sepulveda@uv.cl> Workshop Description: Data gaps in fishing effort, bycatch rates, and the fate of animals post-capture, and trends for populations impede assessment of bycatch and constrain management action. Working with governments to reduce bycatch has been a driver for the creation of the open-source Bycatch Risk Assessment (ByRA) toolbox, used to create spatially explicit bycatch risk analysis. This GIS toolbox allows spatial/temporal assessment and visualization of bycatch risk using any amount or type of data, identifying areas for research and management actions while accounting for uncertainty in results. In Chile, there are critical gaps about distribution and abundance for most marine mammal species, and a lack of data on species most affected by fisheries bycatch. As part of a Lenfest Ocean project including national and international scientists and managers, we have analyzed existing data and generated methods to characterize the spatial and seasonal distribution and abundance of fishing boats, gear, and marine mammals. We have chosen 15 areas of presumptive high bycatch risk nested in four larger regions along the coast of Chile, including industrial and artisanal fisheries. For this workshop, we will demonstrate how we modeled bycatch risk using examples of fisheries and marine mammal species with varying amounts of data. Examples will include: right whales/crab traps (high uncertainty), sperm whales/artisanal Chilean sea bass (medium uncertainty), Dusky dolphins and South American sea lions/Artisanal pelagic purse-seine (low uncertainty). We will discuss how building collaborations with researchers and institutions has been an important step towards identifying and filling gaps in knowledge about cetaceans in Chile these past three years. We will schedule time for discussions on ByRA techniques for workshop participants. ByRA results can provide agencies with information on areas and seasons of bycatch risk, and risk levels for fishing gear, which support precautionary actions and policies, and inform future research and management. Ellen Hines, PhD Estuary & Ocean Science Center Professor Emeritus, School of the Environment San Francisco State University 3150 Paradise Dr Tiburon, CA. 94940 ehines(a)sfsu.edu<mailto:ehines@sfsu.edu> https://eoscenter.sfsu.edu/ellen-hines Adjunct Scientist: Center for Coastal Studies, Provincetown, MA

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New Marine Mammal Genomics Opportunity at the Southeast Fisheries Science Center
by Nicole Vollmer - NOAA Affiliate 21 Jun '24

21 Jun '24

The Marine Mammal Molecular Genomics Lab (MMMGL) at the Southeast Fisheries Science Center is seeking highly motivated candidates for a *new Senior Research Associate II* position. The MMMGL works on a variety of projects focused on marine mammal species from the northwest Atlantic and U.S. Gulf of Mexico, aimed at informing management and conservation actions. The successful applicant will conduct lab work and lead genomic and bioinformatic projects incorporating both microsatellite and SNP data for genetic analyses of multiple marine mammal species. This is a full-time position offering a comprehensive benefits package. The position is based in Crowley, Louisiana and is open to everyone, regardless of citizenship. Candidates must have a Master's degree or higher in marine biology or related field *and at least 1 year of relevant work-related experience*, as well as bioinformatics experience including managing and analyzing large genomics datasets. Anyone interested in applying should see the full description on the University of Miami Careers website ( https://careers.miami.edu/us/en/job/R100078137/Senior-Research-Associate-II) and follow the application instructions posted there. The position's requisition is *R100078137*. -- Nicole Vollmer Associate Scientist, Contractor with University of Miami-CIMAS in support of the Marine Mammal and Turtle Division, Southeast Fisheries Science Center NOAA Fisheries | U.S. Department of Commerce (337) 291-3148 (Google Voice) www.fisheries.noaa.gov

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New publication on killer whales habitat suitability in the Northeast Atlantic
by Bruno Diaz Lopez 21 Jun '24

21 Jun '24

Dear colleagues, On behalf of my co-author and myself, I am delighted to bring to your attention the publication of our last research published by the scientific journal Ocean & Coastal Management. This research leverages citizen science, satellite data, and AI to shed light on the ecology of killer whales in the Northeast Atlantic. Diaz Lopez, B & Methion, S., 2024. Killer whales habitat suitability in the Iberian Peninsula and the Gulf of Biscay: Implications for conservation, Ocean & Coastal Management, Volume 255,107245, ISSN 0964-5691. Our article is available open until 27th August at: https://authors.elsevier.com/a/1jHXS3RKK--re4 Abstract: This study addresses existing gaps in our understanding of the ecology of killer whales by investigating their habitat use dynamics in the Atlantic coastal waters of North Africa, the Iberian Peninsula, and the Gulf of Biscay. Despite previous research on their distribution during the Atlantic Bluefin tuna migration in the Strait of Gibraltar and adjacent waters, substantial knowledge gaps persist, particularly regarding their movement patterns beyond these regions and seasonal variations in habitat use. Utilizing killer whale occurrence records from 2020 to 2023 and considering environmental factors influencing prey presence, we employed seasonal spatial distribution models. MaxEnt models exhibited robust predictive performance, emphasizing distance to shore, depth, and sea surface temperature as key factors influencing killer whale habitat suitability. Spatial distribution patterns reveal a peak in coastal waters of the southern Iberian Peninsula and North Africa during winter and spring, with a significant shift northward and expansion during summer and autumn towards the Gulf of Biscay. This expansion suggests a broader distribution of killer whales in the Northeast Atlantic during warmer months, encompassing a diverse range of habitats. The research underscores a substantial interaction (47%) between killer whales and recreational vessels, posing concerns for both the killer whales and maritime safety. This study provides valuable insights on killer whale habitat use in the Atlantic waters from North Africa to the Gulf of Biscay, thereby supporting conservation and management efforts in the region.Keywords: Killer whales; Orcinus orca; MaxEnt models; Conservation; Human-wildlife interactions Please feel free to contact me for further questions or to request a pdf copy at: bruno(a)thebdri.com Bruno Diaz Lopez Ph.DChief biologist and Director The Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute BDRI - www.thebdri.comAvenida Beiramar 192, O Grove 36980, Pontevedra, SpainTel. 0034 684248552 he/him/his ResearchGate - GoogleScholar -https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0388-3289 Follow BDRI on Facebook , Instagram or mention us on Twitter. This email is confidential to the intended recipient(s) and the contents may be legally privileged or contain proprietary and private informations. It is intended solely for the person to whom it is addressed. If you are not an intended recipient, you may not review, copy or distribute this email. If received in error, please notify the sender and delete the message from your system immediately. Please note that neither the Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute BDRI nor the sender accept any responsibility for any viruses and it is your responsibility to scan the email and the attachments (if any). Thank you for your cooperation. | | Virus-free.www.avast.com |

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Join Us at the 4th Marine Mammal Genomics Workshop (G4) in Perth for SMM24!
by Isabella Reeves 21 Jun '24

21 Jun '24

Dear all, We are excited to invite you to the Fourth Marine Mammal Genomics Workshop (G4), a two-day event designed to spark innovation, enhance global collaboration, and steer the future of marine mammal genomics. G4 will delve into diverse research themes, including evolution, conservation, diseases, novel methods, genomics on a shoestring, and integrating genomics with traditional knowledge. The workshop will feature traditional presentations and panels alongside unique training and networking opportunities. Innovative sessions like "Bioinformatics Problems Speed Dating" and a project-specific problem-solving panel will expedite collaboration and knowledge sharing, bridging the gap between seasoned experts and emerging researchers. G4 is committed to addressing field challenges, fostering global engagement with renowned researchers, facilitating meaningful networking opportunities, and offering practical solutions. Inclusivity is a cornerstone of G4, reflected in our efforts such as diverse global speaker representation, student scholarships favoring applicants from the global South, and prioritizing First Nations community participation. We are pleased to announce secured funding from the American Genetics Association and are actively sourcing additional funds to support invited speakers and students. If you are interested in receiving student funding for the workshop, please fill out the Google form<https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScSCezf_Q6GOFHBVH542hFaHj1p2HYcaAt…> by August 15th. Priority will be given to students from the global South. If you are interested in presenting please fill this Google form<https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfvfQOwKjNdpBlon6FEDeFmaJcBjoJGQed…>. Please see workshop registration information here https://www.smmconference.org/workshops/ . We look forward to your participation in this exciting event! Kind regards, Isabella Reeves, Sebastian Alvarez-Costes, Catherine Meyers and Gabrielle Genty 🌊🐋 Isabella Reeves (she/her) PhD Candidate BSc Marine Biology (Hons.) Cetacean Research Centre, WA Southern Shark Ecology Group College of Science & Engineering, Flinders University Email<mailto:isabella.reeves@flinders.edu.au> | Twitter<https://twitter.com/bellaa_reeves> | LinkedIn<https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabella-reeves-60142b175/> [cid:6d7c5cd6-efcd-467b-a0f7-fbbf573b6ebd][cid:7d0d2169-312f-41c8-89d0-aa8f42493f58] I acknowledge the Kaurna people, the Traditional Custodians of the land I am fortunate to live on. I pay respect to elders past, present and emerging, and recognise the continuing connection to and, water, culture and community of First Nations people here and across Australia. CRICOS No: 00114A This email and any attachments may be confidential. If you are not the intended recipient, please inform the sender by reply email and delete all copies of this message.

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New publication using multi-index approach to quantify changes in humpback whale health
by Jake Linsky 20 Jun '24

20 Jun '24

Dear MARMAMers: My co-authors and I are pleased to announce our recent publication: 'Blubber gene expression and cortisol concentrations reveal changing physiological stress in a Southern ocean sentinel species' published in Marine Environmental Research. Our article is available open access at: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.marenvres.2024.106596 Abstract The health of migratory eastern Australian humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) can reflect the condition of their remote polar foraging environments. This study used gene expression (LEP, LEPR, ADIQ, AhR, TNF-α, HSP-70), blubber hormone concentrations (cortisol, testosterone), and photogrammetric body condition to assess this sentinel species during a period of unprecedented changes to anthropogenic activity and natural processes. The results revealed higher cortisol concentrations in 2020 compared to 2021, suggesting a decline in physiological stress between years. Additionally, metabolic transcripts LEPR, and AhR, which is also linked to xenobiotic metabolism, were upregulated during the 2020 southbound migration. These differences suggest that one or more environmental stressors were reduced between 2020 and 2021, with upregulated AhR possibly indicating a Southern Ocean pollutant declined between the years. This research confirms a Southern Ocean-wide decrease in whale stress during the study period and informs efforts to identify key stressors on Antarctic marine ecosystems. kind regards, Jacob M.J. Linsky, PhD (he/him) School of the Environment | Moreton Bay Research Station The University of Queensland +61 482 795 388

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Final Incidental Take Regulations for the New England Wind Project, Offshore Massachusetts
by Kelsey Potlock - NOAA Federal 20 Jun '24

20 Jun '24

Dear Colleagues, On June, 20, 2024 NOAA Fisheries announced the final regulations to govern the incidental harassment of marine mammals related to the construction of the New England Wind Project offshore Massachusetts. As required by the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA), the final regulations include mandatory mitigation measures undertaken by the wind developer that will ensure the “least practicable adverse impact” on marine mammals and their habitat, as well as monitoring and reporting measures to better understand those impacts. NOAA Fisheries determined that underwater noise generated by the project’s activities over a five-year period may result in the take of marine mammals, in the form of Level A (injury) and/or Level B (behavioral) harassment. Impacts to a small number of North Atlantic right whales are expected to be limited to short-term behavioral disturbance (Level B harassment). No mortality or serious injury of any marine mammal species or stock is expected or would be allowed. NOAA Fisheries determined that the number and manner of take that may be authorized in a Letter of Authorization will have a negligible impact on all affected marine mammal species and stocks. This regulatory action is part of NOAA’s ongoing work to ensure the nation’s deployment of offshore wind energy is done in a manner that avoids and minimizes impacts to protected resources and their habitats. Documents associated with this final action are available on our website <https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/action/incidental-take-authorization-avangri…> . NOAA Fisheries is committed to careful review and use of the best available scientific information in satisfying the requirements of the Marine Mammal Protection Act. Please feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns. Thank you, Kelsey - - - - - *Kelsey Potlock, M.Phil* *(she/her/hers)* *Marine Resources Management Specialist* MMPA Permits and Conservation Division <https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/permit/incidental-take-authorizations-under-…> Office of Protected Resources <https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/about/office-protected-resources> NOAA Fisheries <https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/> | U.S. Department of Commerce <https://www.commerce.gov/> Google Voice Phone Number: (301) 427-8410 Email: *kelsey.potlock(a)noaa.gov <kelsey.potlock(a)noaa.gov>*><((((º>·.¸. ·.¸.·´¯`·...¸.·´¯`·...¸.·><((((º> ·.¸.·´¯`·...¸.·´¯`·...¸.·><((((º>·.¸.·´¯`·...¸.·´¯`·...¸.·><((((º> [image: icon-facebook.png] <https://www.facebook.com/NOAAFisheries>[image: icon-twitter.png] <http://www.twitter.com/noaafisheries>[image: icon-youtube.png] <http://www.youtube.com/usnoaafisheriesgov>[image: icon-instagram.png] <http://www.instagram.com/noaafisheries>[image: icon-linkedin.png] <http://www.linkedin.com/company/noaa-fisheries> *Confidentiality Notice: *This e-mail message is intended only for the named recipients. It contains information that may be confidential, privileged, or otherwise exempt from disclosure under applicable law. If you have received this message in error, are not a named recipient, or are not the employee or agent responsible for delivering this message to a named recipient, be advised that any review, disclosure, use, dissemination, distribution, or reproduction of this message or its contents is strictly prohibited. Please notify us immediately that you have received this message in error, and delete the message. This email and/or its contents may be subject to discovery under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). To learn more about FOIA, please see https://www.foia.gov/.

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