How You Can Help!

Help the sanctuary protect humpback whales and other marine life.


Entanglement in marine debris, such as fishing gear, is a growing problem for marine mammals. It can hinder diving, swimming, feeding, and surfacing activities, as well as the overall behavior of the animal.

~ Choose reusable items instead of disposables

~ Cut six-pack rings before disposing of them as they may entangle marine life

~ Properly dispose of your trash, including cigarettes and fishing gear

~ Recycle plastics, bottles, cans, and paper at the appropriate locations

~ Get involved in a beach or reef clean-up

~ Do not release balloons as they often end up in the ocean and may be ingested by marine life



Habitat is critical for the conservation and health of humpback whales and other marine life.  Any activity which can lead to poor water quality can affect the habitat and ecosystem of the humpback whale.

~ Dispose or recycle hazardous materials such as batteries, oils, paints, and chemicals properly.

~ Be aware that pesticides, herbicides, cleaning products, soil and fecal matter wash out to sea untreated during heavy storms.

~ Use appropriate pump-out facilities available for vessels at harbors.



Vessel-whale collisions may result in serious injury to both humans and whales. It is illegal to approach a humpback whale within 100 yards in the water, as well as disrupt the normal behavior of a humpback, including its prior activity.

~ Know that it is illegal to approach a humpback whale within 100 yards by sea and 1,000 feet by air. Share your knowledge with others and comply with these regulations.

~ Avoid collisions with humpback whales, watch your speed and post a lookout for humpbacks while underway during humpback whale season (November - May) season.

~ Be aware of vessel and safety regulations. Make others aware as well.



Acoustic disturbance due to dredging, blasting, shipping, recreational, testing and other activities may affect humpback whales and their behavior. 

~ Be aware of issues in your area and get involved.  Public involvement helps to ensure successful conservation strategies are put into place.



Reporting Information

Report violations of the Marine Mammal Protection Act & Endangered Species Act to the NOAA Fisheries Enforcement Hotline at 1-800-853-1964.

Report marine mammal emergencies (including injuries and entanglements) and monk seal sightings to NOAA Fisheries at 1-888-256-9840. 

Report dead, sick, injured or stranded sea turtles to NOAA Fisheries at 1-808-983-5730.

Report oil or hazardous material spills to the U.S. Coast Guard at 1-800-424-8802. 

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