RI shark license plates available – here's how to order one
The endangered shortfin mako shark could soon become prevalent in Rhode Island, at least on license plates.
The Atlantic Shark Institute announced Thursday that its shark license plate is, after more than two years in development, available for order. Money raised through purchases will help fund the Wakefield institute's research.
“Sharks are in trouble, and they need our help. Over 100 million are killed annually, and that’ssimply not sustainable,” Jon Dodd, the institute's executive director, said in the announcement. “With no paid employees, every dollar from our supporters, and from these license plates, will go toward vital research aimed at answering critical questions about shark health, ocean health and our health.”
The image for the plate was painted by marine artist Paul McPhee. The institute invited people to vote from two versions, a closeup and a longer image. The closeup won with 92% of the vote, Dodd said.
“Paul McPhee is a spectacular marine artist, and he captured the spirit of ASI, the passion of the Ocean State and the beauty of the mako shark in one fantastic painting,” Dodd said.
The final version was lightened so the numbers and letters will be easier to see, according to Dodd. The plate has been approved by the General Assembly and Rhode Island State Police.
What's going on with that barge? 5 years later, are there plans for the sunken barge in the Providence River? What we know
The cost is $42.50 for a set of plates, with $20 of the price going to the Atlantic Shark Institute. Plates can be ordered on the institute's website, www.atlanticsharkinstitute.org. The the state Department of Motor Vehicles' website also provides a link to order through the institute.
The plates will be available in each of three categories of vehicle – passenger, commercial and combination. The state will not produce plates until 600 have been ordered in a category.
Early reaction has been enthusiastic, Dodd said. More than 400 plates had been ordered by early Thursday afternoon.
"We have been taking orders every minute for the last hour," he said via email Thursday morning. "We are very excited, and it’s great to see so much interest in just the first hour! Just fantastic."
The shortfin mako shark is the fastest shark in the ocean, with speeds of up to 45 mph, and is also known for its "incredible leaping ability," according to Oceana, an international ocean conservation organization. Growing up to 12 feet long and weighing 1,200 pounds, they've also been a popular food for humans.
To help rebuild the overfished shark, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration last year banned the landing or retention of shortfin makos in the United States.
Mako sharks on Rhode Island license plates could someday help them make a comeback in Rhode Island waters.
This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: RI drivers can now order shark license plate to benefit research
