Long-Term Passive Acoustic Monitoring for North Atlantic Right Whales

In collaboration with the Cornell University Bioacoustics Research Program and Excelerate Energy, EOM Offshore deployed a constellation of passive acoustic monitoring (PAM) buoys designed to detect whale presence in near real time. These systems have provided critical data that helps reduce the risk of vessel strikes and supports conservation efforts for one of the most endangered whale species on Earth.

With fewer than 400 individuals remaining, the North Atlantic right whale is one of the most endangered marine mammals in the world. Cape Cod Bay serves as a key seasonal habitat, making it an essential monitoring site. Protecting these whales requires continuous and accurate detection of their presence, often in harsh offshore conditions where traditional visual surveys fall short.

Visual monitoring is limited by daylight, weather, and observer fatigue. To fill these gaps, project stakeholders needed a reliable, autonomous ocean monitoring system that could detect whale vocalizations 24/7, regardless of sea state or visibility.

EOM Offshore designed and deployed a networked constellation of PAM buoys, each equipped with hydrophones and advanced acoustic detection systems. These moored platforms continuously recorded underwater soundscapes, listening for the unique calls of right whales.

When a call was detected, data was transmitted via satellite to researchers and maritime operators, enabling real-time decision-making to protect whales. This system allowed Excelerate Energy and regulatory authorities to adjust vessel operations, such as reducing ship speeds or rerouting traffic, to minimize the risk of collisions.