WDFW to Boaters: Steer Clear of Orcas!
The Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife recently issued an important reminder to recreational boaters and coastal anglers: Steer clear of orca whales.
Found mostly in the southern part of the state, orca populations have dwindled over the years due to declining salmon populations, an increase of pollutants in the water, and disruptions from passing boats. In fact, the orca is recognized by both the federal government and the State of Washington as “endangered.” The current southern orca population consists of about 90 whales.
So why the reminder? Aren’t passing boats the least of the orca’s worries? According to WDFW deputy chief of enforcement Mike Cenci, not exactly.
“Human disturbances, including boat traffic, can interfere with their ability to feed, communicate with one another and care for their young,” Cenci said in a press release. “Boaters have a responsibility to keep their distance.”
In case a friendly reminder isn’t enough to warrant caution, remember that violating the state law can result in a fine of up to $1,025. For breaking the federal law, the fine is up to $10,000. Specifically, here is what the state law says you can’t do to or around a southern resident whale:
- Approach within 100 yards.
- Cause a vessel or other object to approach within 100 yards.
- Fail to disengage the transmission of a vessel within 100 yards.
- Intercept by remaining in its path until it comes within 100 yards.
- Feed it.
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[photo: digicla]
