Protected Species – Research Permits and the Value of Basic Research

Authors

Katherine Ralls
Robert L. Brownell Jr., Southwest Fisheries Science CenterFollow

Date of this Version

1989

Comments

Published in BioScience Vol. 39, No. 6.

Abstract

The complexities involved in obtaining permits for field research using protected species continue to increase. In October 1988, Congress amended the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) to increase the documentation required to obtain a scientific research permit (PL 100-711). Applicants for scientific research permits must now submit “information indicating that the taking is required to further a bona fide scientific purpose and does not involve unnecessary duplication of research.”