NYU Spatial Data Repository

The Code of Federal Regulations designates a mandatory ship reporting system in the northeastern U.S. named WHALESNORTH to protect North Atlantic Right Whales. The mandatory ship reporting system includes the waters of Cape Cod Bay, Massachusetts Bay, and the Great South Channel east and southeast of Massachusetts. The following restrictions apply: Each self-propelled ship of 300 gross tons or greater must participate in the reporting system, except government ships exempted from reporting by regulation V/8-1© of SOLAS. However exempt ships are encouraged to participate in the reporting system. The mandatory ship reporting system operates year-round.To support coastal and ocean planning and other activities pursuant to the Coastal Zone Management Act, Energy Policy Act, Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, National Environmental Policy Act, Rivers and Harbors Act and the Submerged Lands Act.