Overview
Title
Marine Mammals; File No. 25417
Agencies
ELI5 AI
Ed Charles from the UK wants permission to film whales and other sea animals in California for a Netflix show, and people can share their thoughts about this plan until early February.
Summary AI
Ed Charles from Silverback Films, United Kingdom, has applied for a permit to film marine mammals in California for a Netflix documentary on gray whale migration. The proposed permit allows filming of various marine species including gray whales, killer whales, and dolphins using vessels, drones, or divers until May 20, 2022. The application, submitted under the Marine Mammal Protection Act and other relevant acts, is open for public comments until February 8, 2021. A preliminary decision states the project is exempt from requiring an environmental impact assessment.
Abstract
Notice is hereby given that Ed Charles, Silverback Films, 1 St. Augustine's Yard, Gaunts Lane, Bristol, BS1 5DE, United Kingdom, has applied in due form for a permit to conduct commercial or educational photography on marine mammals.
Keywords AI
Sources
AnalysisAI
This document outlines a notice from the National Marine Fisheries Service regarding an application by Ed Charles from Silverback Films. The purpose of the application is to obtain a permit for filming various marine mammals in California. This footage is intended for a Netflix documentary focusing on the migration of gray whales. The permit's potential allows the filming of numerous marine species, including up to 600 gray whales and 672 killer whales, using diverse methods such as vessels, drones, or underwater divers. The permit, if granted, would be valid until May 20, 2022.
General Summary
The application, filed under U.S. legislation protecting marine mammals, is currently in a phase that permits public commentary until February 8, 2021. Preliminary assessments suggest that the filming activity might not require detailed environmental studies, as it is considered to have minimal ecological impact. This decision is moving forward in accordance with both the Marine Mammal Protection Act and the National Environmental Policy Act.
Significant Issues and Concerns
Several issues arise from the document, one being a lack of financial transparency. There is no information regarding the financial implications or costs associated with this permit. Clear details about the expected expenditure would aid in assessing if public resources are being managed effectively and efficiently in this venture.
Additionally, while the document specifies the number of each marine species allowed for filming annually, it does not justify the basis for these quantities. An explanation would help address potential concerns about favoritism towards the filmmaker's requirements, ensuring scientific or conservation priorities are maintained.
Furthermore, the legal terminology and specific references to acts like the Marine Mammal Protection Act may be confusing to individuals with limited legal knowledge. By simplifying or explaining these references, the document could enhance public understanding and engagement.
Lastly, while the activity has been categorically excluded from needing an environmental assessment, the document does not explain the rationale for this exemption. Providing more detail could reassure the public that the decision does not overlook potential environmental impacts.
Broader Public and Stakeholder Impact
Public Impact: The application invites public input, indicating a democratic process. However, the complex language and the lack of context could inhibit meaningful public participation. Enhancing clarity and accessibility would empower more informed contributions from the general public.
Stakeholder Impact:
For stakeholders, such as local environmental groups or communities interested in marine conservation, the lack of detailed justification about the impact of filming activities might provoke concern. On the other hand, the documentary's educational potential could enhance public awareness about marine life and conservation issues, which is a constructive outcome for education-focused organizations.
For the filmmakers, the permit's approval would facilitate capturing stunning footage that could positively influence public perception of marine biodiversity. However, transparency issues could raise questions about their motives if not addressed exhaustively.
In conclusion, while this document serves an essential function in regulating marine mammal interactions for commercial photography, addressing its gaps could foster an environment where the public and stakeholders feel more involved, informed, and assured of the measures in place to protect marine life.
Issues
• The permit application and its purpose are described, but there is no breakdown of the expected cost or spending associated with this permit. Without this information, it is difficult to assess potential wasteful spending.
• There is no information provided on why the specific quantities of marine mammals are to be filmed or how these numbers were determined, which could be considered favoritism towards the applicant's filming needs if not justified.
• The language and terminology related to the legal acts (e.g., MMPA, Fur Seal Act) might be difficult to understand for individuals not familiar with these regulations, potentially limiting public understanding and engagement.
• The document mentions that the activity is categorically excluded from the requirement to prepare an environmental assessment, but lacks a detailed explanation of why this exclusion applies to reassure the public of its appropriateness.
• The document uses technical jargon, such as scientific names of species, without providing context or explanation, which could render the information inaccessible to the general public.
• The document does not explain how the proposed activity aligns with conservation efforts or if it could potentially impact the marine mammals or their habitats negatively.