Definition

The term strategic stock means a marine mammal stock (1) for which the level of direct human-caused mortality exceeds the potential biological removal level; (2) which, based on the best available scientific information, is declining and is likely to be listed as a threatened species under the ESA within the foreseeable future; or (3) which is listed as threatened or endangered under the ESA, or is designated as depleted under the MMPA.

Under the MMPA, depleted species include those listed as threatened or endangered under the ESA and those below their optimum sustainable population. See Federal Regulation 50 CFR 216.15 for a listing of marine mammal species designated as depleted under NOAA Fisheries jurisdiction.