Southern resident killer whales are facing extinction due to disturbances from vessels. In response, the Canadian government has announced new protective measures aimed at safeguarding this critically endangered species.
With only 75 southern resident killer whales left, the government issued an interim order this month that will take effect on June 1, 2019. This initiative aims to combat the main threats to these marine mammals, particularly physical and acoustic disturbances.
Key measures include:
A prohibition on vessels approaching within 400 meters of the whales across their critical habitat.
Commercial whale watching operators and eco-tourism companies must demonstrate a commitment to environmental conservation to gain permission to approach non-southern resident orcas within 200 meters.
Newly designated Interim Sanctuary Zones will restrict vessels from entering specific areas, including Swiftsure Bank and regions near Saturna Island and North Pender Island.
Operators are also urged to adhere to a 'Go Slow' zone, reducing speeds to less than 7 knots when within 1,000 meters of designated Advanced Management Areas in the Gulf Islands, Juan de Fuca Strait, and Fraser River mouth. Additionally, vessels are encouraged to minimize noise by turning off echo sounders and putting engines in neutral.
In May, the Pacific Whale Watch Association (PWWA) pledged to refrain from offering tours around the orcas. The Canadian government's protection plans for this species are estimated to cost around €150 million out of a total of €1.34 billion allocated for ocean conservation.
Alan McGillivray, president of the PWWA, stated, 'For 25 years, PWWA members have supported science-based efforts to understand and mitigate the impact of vessel traffic on orcas. We continue to be the quietest vessels in the waters and the sea sentinels for the orcas through our science-based vessel management plan.'