Groups Join Notice of Intent to Sue NMFS over Blue Whales

Yesterday, a group of environmental organizations, including the Center for Biological Diversity, Friends of the Earth, and Pacific Environment joined an earlier Notice of Intent to sue the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) for the agency’s failure to implement the 1998 Blue Whale Recovery Plan issued under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). A press release can be read here.

Environmental Defense filed the original Notice of Intent to Sue in August. Yesterday's development gives CBD et al the right to sue NMFS for violation of the ESA after 60 more days have elapsed. The groups say they seek to prompt action, not to get embroiled in litigation. NMFS is part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.