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Petition To Protect Endangered Orcas
posted on June 27, 2008
 Please join Lifeforce in our petition campaign to protect endangered orcas in Waters off Point Roberts, WA, by sending a polite email to Governor Gregoire.
Although June was designated Orca Awareness Month by Governor Gregoire the orcas are still not getting much respect and the protection needed for their survival.
 Photo: Orcas passing Lighthouse Marine Park. There should be a voluntary No Boat Zone when orcas are present. (Lifeforce/Peter Hamilton Copyright)
At least for this month people may look at their impact on marine environments that have contributed to the decline of orca populations. From aquarium captures to using hazardous chemicals to overfishing these are some of the practises that individuals can help stop.
But what about the endless boat traffic and noise from the commercial whale watch fleet? We know that such heavy traffic causes stress that affects the immune system and interrupts lifestyles. A Lifeforce investigation has found that the problems are as rampant as ever.
Since April, Lifeforce has been investigating the activities of Whale Watch companies operating in waters off Point Roberts. After a two year absence, we wanted to see if boats are following guidelines and legislation created to protect the endangered Southern Resident Killer Whales. Unfortunately, members of the Whale Watch Operators Association Northwest (WWOAN) continue to block the orcas pathways, position within 100 yards and position between the orcas and shore.
Many Whale Watch Companies do not follow the guidelines when they are not being monitored by a few non-profit organizations or government agencies. The Whale Watch Industry’s self-policing and the system itself are not working. It is time for No Boat Zones, regulations, stiff fines and more enforcement.
We can start by urging Governor Gregoire to continue her efforts to protect orcas by increasing enforcement and implementing a 1/2 mile voluntary No Boat Zone at Point Roberts. The No Boat Zone will not affect pleasure boating activities and fishing. If boaters happen to be in the zone when orcas approach they would just turn off their engines and drift until the orcas pass.
 Photo: On May 30th, a whale watch company put their boat between the Point Robert’s shore and several orcas blocking their pathway within 100 yard in violation of new legislation. (Lifeforce/Peter Hamilton Copyright)
How You Can Help Orcas
If you can not identify a Whale Watch Company that is harassing orcas, please email a photo or send a description to Lifeforce and we will provide you with the ID. Also do the same with private boats and try to get their vessel “license” number. After getting the ID from Lifeforce, please call the National Marine Fisheries Service 1-800-853-1964.
Every report of harassment and every signature on the petition to the Governor are important. THE ORCAS NEED YOUR HELP!
Join us in our petition and send this message to Governor Gregoire:
TAKE ACTION
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