Federal Register #2026-08663

NMFS Requests Information for Rice's Whale Status Review under ESA

The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), part of NOAA within the Department of Commerce, is initiating a status review of the Rice's whale under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). - NMFS is requesting new scientific and commercial information about the Rice's whale (Balaenoptera ricei) from the public, scientific community, industry, and stakeholders - Information should include supporting documentation such as maps, references, or publications - The review will determine if the Rice's whale should be delisted, downlisted, or remain listed as endangered - No products or services are being procured; this is a request for information only - Only government agencies (NMFS, NOAA) are involved; no OEMs or commercial vendors are mentioned - Submissions should focus on data that has become available since the last review in 2016

Description

The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) announces the initiation of a status review of the Rice's whale (Balaenoptera ricei) under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (ESA). This review aims to ensure the accuracy of the species' listing classification and determine if it should be delisted, downlisted, or remain listed as endangered. NMFS requests submission of any new scientific and commercial data on the Rice's whale that has become available since the last review in 2016. The information must be received by July 6, 2026.

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