Endangered, Threatened, and Depleted Marine Mammals in U.S. Waters: A Review of Species Classification Systems and Listed Species

In its 2004 appropriations bill, Congress directed the Marine Mammal Commission to- review the biological viability of the most endangered marine mammal populations and make recommendations regarding the cost-effectiveness of current protection programs. This report identifies - the most endangered marine mammal populations in U.S. waters, evaluates the criteria and methods used to place marine mammal species and populations on the major protected species lists, and reviews current data on their biological status.