VIRGINIA — The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources is inviting public feedback on its draft Marine Mammal Conservation Plan, which aims to safeguard marine mammal species along the Commonwealth’s coast and in its marine waters. Developed over the past 18 months, the plan addresses the protection and management of species such as the North Atlantic right whale and bottlenose dolphin.
The newly released draft outlines current management efforts, species descriptions, limiting factors affecting marine mammals, and presents a comprehensive conservation strategy. The conservation strategy section, beginning on page 74 of the document, is highlighted as the principal focus for public comment. Officials say this portion of the plan details targeted actions designed to reduce threats and support the recovery of vulnerable species. According to the agency, the plan’s recommendations will also guide updates to the Virginia Wildlife Action Plan and will be incorporated into the Virginia Ocean Plan to ensure coordinated conservation efforts statewide. Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to review the draft document and submit comments using an online form created by the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources. The comment period closes Friday, August 1. The draft Marine Mammal Conservation Plan, the feedback form, and additional details are available on the agency’s website at dwr.virginia.gov/wildlife/marine-mammal-conservation-plan.
