Chapter 3 North Carolina’s Species
3.12 Marine Species 3.12.1 Introduction
Marine and pelagic species were not directly prioritized during the Taxa Team evaluation process primarily for reasons of jurisdictional limitations and lack of information. However, marine species and habitats are a critical resource for North Carolina, and the management and conservation of those resources are high priorities. The information provided in this section was developed by reviewing existing information sources on marine and pelagic species and habitats and through review and input by partner organizations that are directly responsible for managing these resources. Pelagic bird species are addressed as a separate topic in Section 3.11. Note that sea turtle species were evaluated by the Reptile Taxa Team because they use terrestrial habitats (beaches) for nesting; therefore, sea turtles are also included in the reptile SGCN list (see Section 3.8 and Table 3-7 in Appendix 3). 3.12.2 Regulations The management and protection of migratory, pelagic, or other marine species fall under a host of jurisdictions in North Carolina depending on the location of the species at a given point in time. Similarly, there is inter-jurisdictional responsibility for management of coastal, estuarine and marine habitats that are critical to marine species survival. This presents a constant challenge to resource managers because coordinated efforts among multiple agencies are necessary to manage the fish and wildlife resources of the state effectively.
Four agencies have jurisdiction and authority over estuarine and marine (aquatic) species in the state; two are federal agencies and two are state agencies:
Federal Agencies
State Agencies
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Fisheries
NCDEQ Division of Marine Fisheries (NCDMF)
US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)
NC Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC), when the species are in joint coastal waters or inland waters.
3.12.2.1 Federal Regulations Under the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA), all marine mammals are protected from take in United States waters and by United States citizens on the high seas, and marine mammals and marine mammal products are prohibited from importation into the United States.
2025 NC Wildlife Action Plan
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