Dungeness Crab Season Closes to Protect Humpback Whales

The commercial Dungeness crab season has been closed in several regions along the West Coast to protect migrating humpback whales from entanglement risks. The decision, announced by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), affects areas including Monterey Bay and the Bay Area. The closure aims to mitigate the threat to whales while still allowing some fishing opportunities in less risky zones.

The move comes in response to increased whale entanglements reported in recent years, prompting a need for stricter regulations during the whales' migration season. The CDFW has been working to balance the needs of the fishing industry with the imperative to protect marine life, resulting in a partial closure that still permits fishing in areas deemed safer for whales.

Local fishermen and environmental groups have mixed reactions to the closure. While some fishermen express frustration over the shortened season, environmentalists applaud the decision as a necessary step to safeguard the humpback whale population. The closure is set to remain in effect until further notice, with ongoing assessments to determine when it might be safe to resume full operations.

• California Department of Fish and Wildlife
• Dungeness Crab
• Humpback Whales
• Monterey Bay

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