The federal agency responsible for protecting North Atlantic right whales misrepresented the views of its own scientists to justify its decision to open long-closed fishing grounds off Nantucket last year, putting the critically endangered species at greater risk, according to an explosive complaint filed last week with a government inspector general.
In addition, lawyers for the National Marine Fisheries Service made false or misleading statements about the agency’s decision, which is being challenged in federal court, according to the Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility, a Washington-based group that represents government whistle-blowers.
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