June 2009: Orca Awareness Month posted on May 26, 2009
Many Celebrate but Orcas Still Not Protected
It is great news that Washington State Governor Gregoire has once again declared June 2009 as Orca Awareness Month. So why did the BC Government failed to act upon Lifeforce’s 2008 request to enact a similar proclamation? The Southern Community of orcas are a transboundary species that travel in both BC and US waters. They are designated as endangered in both countries.
At least for this month people in the US may look at their impact on marine environments that have resulted in orca populations becoming endangered. From aquarium captures to using chemicals that pollute to overfishing these are some of the practises that individuals can help stop.
But what about the endless boat traffic and noise from commercial whale watch boats and research boats? We know that such heavy traffic causes stress and interrupts lifestyles. Lifeforce investigations has found that the problems are as rampant as ever. Patrols by Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife will be reduced by approximately 50% this year due to funding cuts.
Whale Watch Companies do not follow the guidelines and regulations when they are not being monitored by government agencies. It is time for regulations, stiff fines and more enforcement.
We must also change the way whales are watch on water. This would include giving the orcas some days off and breaks during the day.
Whale Watch Companies
Whale Watch Operators Association Northwest (WWOAN)have operators who are some of the worst violators of guidelines. The photo above shows one Executive driving into a group of orcas and following within 100 meters.
Download ORCAAWARENESS2009.pdf