Argentina sets whale‑watching season dates and closes fishing zones to protect marine life

The provincial whale‑watching authority in Río Negro proposed a new season running from 14 August to 12 October, pending formal approval. The plan, discussed with municipalities, tourism operators and scientists, aims to balance economic benefits with protection of the Southern Right Whale, including updated regulations and a technical team to assess impacts.

Separately, the National Directorate of Coordination and Fiscalisation of Fisheries ordered the closure of Sub‑area 12 and the southern part of Sub‑area 14 to the shrimp fleet, effective 00:00 on 7 August 2026. The measure follows a technical report showing incidental hake catches far above the 20 % threshold, with ratios of 29 % to 47 % in the affected zones. Vessels must cease operations in those areas and redirect to permitted zones.

Both actions reflect Argentina’s effort to manage marine resources through science‑based regulation, targeting tourism and commercial fishing alike.