The Makah Tribe has submitted a permit application to NOAA Fisheries that, if approved, will allow it to hunt up to 25 eastern North Pacific gray whales over 10 years, starting as soon as this summer and another whale killing in 2027. The Makah Tribe voluntarily gave up tribal hunting in 1928 because commercial whaling had decimated the species. Gray whales have since rebounded and were removed from protection under the Endangered Species Act in 1994. In 1995, the Makah Tribe notified the U.S. government of interest in resuming its traditional hunting practices, secured by the 1855 Treaty of Neah Bay; however, Marine Connection have long opposed all whaling and objects to the issuance of the hunting permit and needs you to voice your concerns.
Public comments on the application must be submitted by May 5th, 2025 – please take the time to protect the innocent gray whales by emailing MakahPermit.WCR@noaa.gov
