In animal welfare news, the United States Coast Guard considers measures to protect whales from ship traffic. The US government agency is researching the possibility of additional regulations for ships traveling through the three sea routes on the North California coast. These pathways cross or are near national marine sanctuaries. Proposals to safeguard the intelligent mammals include reducing vessel speed, stationing on-board wildlife observers, and extending one of the restricted ship corridors. A study is underway to evaluate these.

Our appreciation, United States Coast Guard, for focusing on this very important matter. We pray that the needed changes are made soon so that these precious cetaceans can swim safely and happily in our shared waters.

http://www.mercurynews.com/central-coast/ci_16737271?nclick_check=1