Proposed Right Whale Seasonal Speed Zones

This dataset represents proposed modifications to mandatory speed restriction areas (50 CFR Part 224.105) established to reduce the threat of vessel collisions with endangered North Atlantic right whales. Since the implementation of speed restrictions in 2008, the distribution of right whales has shifted, resulting in a misalignment between areas of high vessel strike risk and the spatial and temporal bounds of the mandatory speed restriction areas. To maximize the reduction of vessel strike risk, the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) have proposed modifications to the existing speed restriction areas using a coast-wide vessel strike mortality risk model, North Atlantic right whale visual sighting and acoustic detection data, recent vessel traffic Automatic Identification System (AIS) data, and information on other relevant planned ocean activities, including offshore wind development. While the offshore boundaries of the proposed speed restriction areas are fixed, the majority of the coastal boundary is represented by shoreline data. Because shorelines are highly dynamic, the dataset used to represent the shoreline, while contemporary, will likely become quickly outdated in a number of locations. In addition, GIS projection and topology functions can often change or generalize coordinates. For these reasons, the spatial features contained in this dataset are considered to be approximate representations and are NOT an OFFICIAL record for the exact regulated area boundaries.

This dataset was created to depict proposed modifications to mandatory speed restriction areas (50 CFR Part 224.105). For information on the proper use of the dataset refer to the Use Constraints metadata section.

The user assumes the entire risk related to use of these data. NMFS is providing these data "as is," and NMFS disclaims any and all warranties, whether express or implied, including (without limitation) any implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. No warranty expressed or implied is made regarding the accuracy or utility of the data on any other system or for general or scientific purposes, nor shall the act of distribution constitute any such warranty. It is strongly recommended that careful attention be paid to the contents of the metadata file associated with these data to evaluate dataset limitations, restrictions or intended use. In no event will NMFS be liable to you or to any third party for any direct, indirect, incidental, consequential, special or exemplary damages, or lost profit resulting from any use or misuse of this data.

Microsoft Windows 10 Version 10.0 (Build 19043) ; Esri ArcGIS 12.7.0.26828

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