Dear Member,
As detailed in previous communication, several voluntary and mandatory measures to protect southern resident killer whales (SRKW) on the West Coast came into effect today June 1 as scheduled. These include the ECHO voluntary slowdown at Swiftsure Bank, mandatory Speed Restricted Zones, and mandatory Interim Sanctuary Zones.
In addition, the voluntary slowdown at Haro Strait and Boundary Pass, which is triggered only once whales have been observed in the areas, came into effect today. This slowdown was triggered because southern resident killer whales were sighted in the area yesterday and this morning.
We thank members for their continuing commitment to the protection and recovery of these whales.
From the ECHO Program:
“As a young calf is still among the J-Pod this year, your collective efforts to reduce disturbance to whales in these key areas is particularly important, as southern resident killer whales are known to be especially vulnerable in the first year of their lives.”
Please contact the undersigned with any questions.
Sincerely,
Manager, Environmental and Regulatory Affairs