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Whale Wise
posted on June 30, 2012
Get Off Their Tails! Report boats that are getting to close in violation of laws.
If you plan to take a whale watch tour please read the following.
In Canada and the US all vessels (including kayaks) must not block the pathways of orcas. In Canada, it is the law that they must also stay 100 yards away and in the US it must be 200 yards (400 yards from approaching orcas).
In addition to pollution, and food depletion, boat harassment is a major threat facing endangered orcas. It is extremely psychologically stressful and can physically injure them. Boat traffic can interrupt their communication, feeding, socializing and more.
An option is land based whale watching at Point Roberts, WA; San Juan Islands, WA; Saturna Island and Victoria areas in Canada and other places.
If you take a Whale Watch boat trip please take video and photos of the violations by any company/pleasure boaters to help enforcement agencies. If operators are truly following the rules they should be supportive. Funding for government enforcement is not adequate. The more eyes on the water the more protection there will be for orcas and other wildlife.
In Canada Report Violations to Department of Fisheries and Oceans 1-800-465-4336
In US Report Violations to National Marine Fisheries Service 1-800-853-1964
Violations can be also be reported on the http://www.bewhalewise.org/ web page.
Further information: www.lifeforcefoundation.org
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