What are the Effects of Oil on Marine Mammals?   [open pdf - 113KB]

"Marine mammals are a highly diverse group that includes whales, dolphins, seals, sea lions, walruses, sea otters, manatees, and polar bears. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is vested with trusteeship responsibilities over these organisms under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, the Endangered Species Act, and the National Contingency Plan. As the sole trustee or co-trustee, NOAA is authorized to manage or protect marine mammals during oil and hazardous materials spills."