(KRON) — The California Department of Fish and Wildlife has delayed the opening of commercial crabbing season statewide to protect whales and sea turtles, the agency announced Friday.

CDFW Director Charlton Bonham issued a declaration Friday stating that researchers observed blue whales, humpback whales, and leatherback sea turtles in various fishing zones across the California coast. Based on the assessed risks, state law requires the CDFW to delay the commercial season, which was scheduled to open in November.

“Upon evaluation of the management considerations pursuant to Section 132.8(d), I have determined that the management action … protects humpback whales, blue whales, and leatherback sea turtles based on the best available science,” the declaration reads.

The agency will review t

See Full Page