Charted Marine Consulting has applied for a permit with the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) to conduct research on bottlenose dolphins in Texas's coastal waters. The research aims to gather data on dolphin populations, behavior, and habitat use, including potential risks from human activities. The permit allows for the study of up to 8,670 dolphins annually, with some undergoing additional testing like biopsy sampling. Public comments on the application are being accepted until April 28, 2025, and requests for a public hearing can also be submitted.
Simple Explanation
Charted Marine Consulting wants to study dolphins in Texas to learn more about them and make sure they're safe, and people can say what they think about this plan until the end of April 2025. But some people are worried because they don't know how much money will be spent, why this group was picked, or how they will make sure other animals don't get bothered.