We believe by working together we can maintain vibrant maritime commerce, enhance corporate responsibility, and protect human health and the marine environment. We thank you in advance for considering your company’s participation in this voluntary VSR incentive program.

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Eligibility 

Any company who operates container, car carrier, bulk cargo, or tanker vessels that pass through the Vessel Speed Reduction (VSR) Zones is eligible.

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2025 Program Period 

The VSR incentive program period is May 1 – December 31, 2025. 

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How it Works

• Each vessel transiting the VSR Zones will have their speed verified via analysis of Automatic Identification System (AIS) data.

• Participation is voluntary and does not commit shipping industry participants beyond the program period.

• Public recognition incentives will be awarded to participating vessel operators based on percent of distance traveled by all of their vessels through the VSR Zones at 10 knots or less, termed “percent of cooperation,” during the identified time period.

• If an enrolled company is unable to meet the minimum program criteria, there is no penalty, but public recognition incentives will not be awarded.

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Further Details and How to Enroll

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• Please review the following forms, complete the Participation Agreement, and return it to Jessica Morten at jessica.morten@noaa.gov and Danielle Alvarez at dalvarez@californiamsf.org.​

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              Participant Agreement

2025 VSR Zone Map

Cover Letter

Whale Sightings Report by Transit