January Lecture Looks At Future Of Right Whales

The endangered North Atlantic Right Whale population has declined over the last several years, prompting the question: “Is Extinction In Sight?”

Julie Albert, who has coordinated the Marine Resources Council’s North Atlantic Right Whale Program for 20 years, will be the guest speaker for the January 2019 public lecture at the Marine Discovery Center.

The presentation is set for Thursday, Jan. 17, 2019 starting at 6 p.m. The event is hosted by the Marine Discovery Center, located at 520 Barracuda Boulevard in New Smyrna Beach.

Albert will discuss the current state of the endangered species and the recent sighting of Right Whales in regional waters. She will also highlight progress made on the use of alternative fishing gear designed to reduce whale entanglements, and examine the challenges and outlook for the future of this whale species that winters off Florida’s east coast.

In addition, Albert will show shoreline residents how to identify North Atlantic Right Whales and provide information on who to contact if the whales are spotted offshore this winter.

MDC’s January lecture is open to the public at no charge and no reservations are required. Early arrival is recommended, as seating is limited.

For more information about the lecture, contact the Marine Discovery Center at 386-428-4828.