The critically endangered North Atlantic right whale (Eubalaena glacialis), one of the rarest large whale species, faces threats from vessel strikes, fishing gear entanglement, and habitat disturbance. During their annual migration to Georgia’s coastal waters, their only known calving ground, the Georgia Conservancy is expanding protection efforts through innovative technology and community outreach.
Each winter, right whales migrate from New England and Canada to the warm, shallow waters off Georgia and northern Florida to give birth and raise calves. The calving season, from November through April, is a vulnerable period for the species.
This year’s calving season was largely a positive one for a species in search of some good news. Recent surveys recorded at least 22 mother-calf pairs along the southeastern coast, marking an encouraging increase after several years of low birth rates.
Despite recent gains, vessel collisions remain a leading cause of right whale mortality. Since these whales swim slowly near the surface and are hard for mariners to detect, the Georgia Conservancy leads targeted initiatives to reduce collision risks and improve safety for whales and boaters.
A key part of our strategy is deploying Automatic Identification System (AIS) beacons along the Georgia coast. AIS is a navigational tool required on most commercial vessels. Beacons at key locations send real-time alerts to ship operators entering right whale calving or migration areas, encouraging them to reduce speed to prevent collisions. This proven technology provides a scalable, data-driven way to improve vessel compliance and whale safety.
Georgia Conservancy currently sponsors an AIS beacon located at the Sapelo Island Lighthouse.
In January 2026, U.S. Representative Earl “Buddy” Carter announced a $500,000 federal grant for the Georgia Conservancy to expand its AIS beacon network and monitoring activities. Included in the House’s appropriations package, this funding will enhance real-time messaging to vessel operators about seasonal management areas to further reduce whale strike risks. The grant also supports boating community safety and the local coastal economy.
Beyond technology, Georgia Conservancy’s “Go Slow, Whales Below” campaign promotes boater education and outreach. Prominent signage at marinas and boating centers has been installed across coastal Georgia, urging recreational and commercial operators to slow down during right whale calving season and to use tools such as the Whale Alert app to track sightings. Mailers and educational materials provided to local boat owners also raise awareness and foster stewardship among local mariners.
These new initiatives support our additional efforts to reduce right whale mortality from another leading cause of danger: fishing gear entanglement.
The integration of technology, education, community engagement, and critical federal support is part of our comprehensive strategy to protect right whales during this critical life stage in our coastal waters. Ongoing partnerships among scientists, policymakers, boaters, and our coastal communities are vital to ensuring the recovery and long-term survival of this beautiful, yet endangered species.