Presidential Letters

The Society for Marine Mammalogy uses the Presidential Letter process as a mechanism whereby the Society may respond to issues of concern in a timely fashion. The SMM Conservation Committee monitors important marine mammal issues via input from the SMM Board of Governors and the SMM membership.

At the request of the Board of Governors, the Committee will research an issue of concern and develop a position. Based on the consensus view of the Committee, the Chair will draft a letter for signature by the President on behalf of the Society. Such letters and appropriate background and responses are published on the Society’s website.

November 6, 2018

Presidential Letter to Minister Han concerning recent removals of Critically Endangered Yangtze River finless porpoises for public display

This Presidential letter was sent to the Minister Han expressing concern over recent removals of Critically Endangered Yangtze River finless porpoises for public display. Dear Minister Han, I am writing to express concern about recent removals of Critically Endangered Yangtze River finless porpoises for public display. China has made an important contribution to conservation […]

Response to Dr. Taylor’s letter regarding Hector’s Dolphins

Dr. Taylor received a reply to her letter regarding Hector’s Dolphins on October 24, 2018. Read the response sent by Drs. Butcher and Anderson here.

Dr. Taylor Letter Sent to New Zealand Directors Regarding Hector’s Dolphins

27 August, 2018 Dr. Lian Butcher Director Aquatic at Department of Conservation Dr. Stuart Anderson Director Fisheries Management, Fisheries New Zealand Dear Drs. Butcher and Anderson: I recently participated as an independent panelist to provide suggestions on the Threat Management Plan for Hector’s and Maui dolphins, which is in the late stages of development. To […]

Presidential Letter in Support of Dr. Taylor’s Letter Regarding Hector’s Dolphins

Society President, D. Ann Pabst, wrote to express support for a letter from Dr. Barbara Taylor, Chair of the Conservation Committee, addressed to Dr. Lian Butcher, New Zealand’s Director Aquatic at Department of Conservation and Dr. Stuart Anderson, Director of Fisheries Management, Fisheries New Zealand. The letter suggested adopting a scientific team approach to conservation of Hector’s and Maui […]

Marine Mammal Commission Proposed Budget Cuts for 2019

Dear Senators and Representatives, In June 2017 the Society for Marine Mammalogy wrote to you because President Trump’s proposed 2018 budget would have eliminated the U.S. Marine Mammal Commission. Congress prevented that outcome and the Society gratefully acknowledges your support for the Commission. Last week we learned that the President’s proposed 2019 budget also takes […]

« prev 1 234 5 6 next »

Society for Marine Mammalogy

Science & Publications