Comment from Wayne Hall

I have been a permanent resident of Alaska and lived in Anchorage since 1978. In my first years here Beluga Whales were a common sight in Cook Inlet and in Turnagain Arm. Sadly, that is no longer the case. In order to continue to do nothing to reverse the undeniable decline in this distinct population, all that happens is a lot of denial and finger-pointing at some other reason for the present status. The “subsistence” hunters say they did not do it. The commercial and sport fishing interests say they are not to blame. Of course, the ever-increasing amounts of almost-raw sewage and other pollution that continues to be dumped into Cook Inlet could not possibly be the cause nor can the increased dredging and oil and gas exploration and production along with proposed mega-boondoggle projects like the Knik Arm bridge. It is vital that all avenues be pursued to restore this unique and important wildlife population and habitat. The only way that is going to happen is to declare the maximum area needed as critical habitat. Only then can passing the blame and ignoring the problems be stopped, and all existing and potential causes be evaluated, eliminated or avoided. I am in complete support of the National Marine Fisheries Service proposed rule to designate two areas of Cook Inlet as Critical Habitat for these endangered animals. Enough time has been wasted. This needs to happen now!