Jul 3, 2008 7:11 pm US/Eastern
Feds To N.J. Residents: Stay Away From Dolphins!
Violators Face Up To $10,000 Fines; Unmarked Boats Will Be Used During Fireworks Show To Enforce Mandate
SEA BRIGHT, N.J. (CBS) ―
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Wayward dolphins in New Jersey river.
CBS
This Fourth of July weekend a group of stranded dolphins will remain in the Shrewsbury River near the Jersey Shore. And as thousands flock to the area, officials have issued a warning – leave the dolphins alone!
CBS 2 HD has learned if you don't you could pay a hefty price.
The New Jersey State Police are telling jet skiers to slow down in order to protect up to 20 beautiful bottlenose dolphins, including two young ones. They have been swimming in unusual waters for some time now.
Authorities will step up enforcement of a 50-yard exclusion zone around the family.
With Thursday night's massive fireworks display in nearby Red Bank due to bring 150,000 spectators on land -- and even more by boat -- officials say they will take a hard line in keeping boaters away from the dolphins.
"If the people get too close, we warn them fines can be up to $10,000 if they are found guilty of harassing dolphins," Trooper Michael White said.
The feds tell CBS 2 HD they will be out in unmarked boats Thursday night when the fireworks show starts on the river, heavily enforcing that law.
Biologists observing the dolphins say feeding them or intentionally getting in their way could constitute harassment.
"They tend to split up a little as boat traffic increases," a biologist told CBS 2 HD. "That's what we're worried about. We're telling people to enjoy them, but from afar."
For now, unless the dolphins are injured, there are no plans to move them.
"All it takes is one boat to go off-course through the dolphins," said Bob Schoelkopf of the Marine Mammal Stranding Center. "Then we have problems with an injury."
Biologists initially thought these dolphins were off-shore dolphins, but now they say they are coastal dolphins who are used to salt water.
"We saw their fins," one little girl exclaimed. "They're popping out of the water."
Others seem to be enjoying the view, but are mindful of the strict laws.
"We thought we'd come to McClone's and have a nice lunch and do some dolphin spotting," one person said.
So as the fireworks begin, the feds will be out there where you least expect them, ready to hand out hefty fines.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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