FR 2025-03567

The document published in the Federal Register announces the issuance of a permit to Humble Bee Wild Ltd, a subsidiary of Humble Bee Films Ltd, allowing them to conduct filming of marine mammals, specifically humpback whales, off the coast of Hawaii. The permit was approved by the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), which operates under the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) of the U.S. Commerce Department. This authorization, valid until April 2026, permits the filming of up to 540 humpback whales each year. Additionally, the permit enables the filming of a limited number of common bottlenose dolphins and spinner dolphins. The footage collected is intended for a natural history documentary series.

General Summary

The issued permit allows for the filming of significant quantities of marine wildlife, particularly humpback whales, in the Auau Channel, Hawaii. The applicant company, Humble Bee Wild Ltd, is granted the ability to use various methods to capture footage, including vessels, unmanned aerial vehicles (drones), and underwater divers. The permit also specifies that while the main focus is on humpback whales, some interactions with dolphins can be documented. These interactions, which involve up to fifty of each species of dolphin, are intended to be part of a television series aimed at educating and engaging the public on natural history.

Significant Issues or Concerns

One concern that could be addressed is the potential impact on the wildlife. Human interaction, even in controlled filming settings, can be stressful for animals and could potentially influence their natural behaviors. However, the permit notes that the activities are categorically excluded from requiring an environmental impact statement under the National Environmental Policy Act, indicating an assessment that any risks are minimal or manageable. This might be reassuring, but stakeholders concerned with marine conservation might have reservations regarding the potential impacts of increased human presence in these delicate ecosystems.

Broad Public Impact

The permit's issuance reflects the balancing act between the promotion of education and the responsibility of ensuring wildlife protection. For the general public, the resulting film content from this permit promises to provide an engaging and educational view into the lives of some of the ocean's most majestic creatures – the humpback whales and dolphins. Such documentaries have the power to enhance public understanding and appreciation of marine life, fostering a more informed public that could be more engaged in conservation efforts.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

Positive Impacts:
For the media production company, the permit allows continued work on a potentially high-profile project that can boost their reputation in natural history filmmaking. Additionally, marine tourism stakeholders in the region might see benefits from heightened interest in Hawaiian marine biodiversity, driven by the documentary’s exposure.

Negative Impacts:
Conservation groups may express concern over the potential cumulative impact of repeated filming activities. The presence of drones, vessels, and divers, while managed under specific guidelines, might still interfere with the natural behaviors or habitats of marine animals, thus calling for careful oversight.

Overall, while the permit facilitates vital educational content creation, ongoing dialogue between environmentalists, the public, industry stakeholders, and regulatory bodies will be essential to ensure that wildlife interests are protected alongside educational ambitions.