The Salish Sea is becoming increasingly noisy due to rising marine traffic, particularly from developments like the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion. This heightened noise pollution poses a significant threat to the recovery of endangered Southern Resident killer whales.
Human-made ocean noise interferes with the echolocation abilities of whales and dolphins, making it harder for them to communicate, find food, and navigate their environments. Marine conservation specialists emphasize that this 'acoustic smog' clouds their ability to sense their surroundings.
As the Canadian government develops an Ocean Noise Strategy, concerns arise that proposed measures lack concrete actions and timelines for noise reduction. The draft plan includes recommendations for understanding ocean noise impacts and supporting technology to minimize it, yet experts argue that stronger regulations are needed.
A recent study published in Global Change Biology indicates that as noise levels rise, killer whales' foraging success diminishes. The research highlights the urgent need for effective management of underwater noise to support marine conservation efforts.
With British Columbia's south coast already one of the loudest aquatic areas in Canada, the situation for Southern Resident killer whales is dire. Conservationists advocate for strict noise limits to ensure a healthier marine environment conducive to the recovery of these iconic species.