In recent weeks, Orca whales and Grey whales have been seen feeding in Vancouver harbour at various locations. This unusual occurrence is likely due to insufficient food sources in their typical feeding grounds, pushing these magnificent creatures closer to shore in search of nourishment. Their presence in the harbour is a testament to the richness of our local ecosystem, but it comes with heightened risks, particularly due to human activity.

On May 4, 2026, a tragic incident occurred when a jet ski operator, travelling at high speed, collided with a Grey whale in the heart of Vancouver's harbour. The whale's condition remains unknown, underscoring the urgent need to address the presence of high-speed watercraft in critical feeding areas. Such collisions not only endanger marine life but could also pose significant threats to human safety.

Furthermore, the noise and water pollution caused by jet skis can disrupt the delicate balance of the local marine environment. Whales and dolphins rely heavily on sound for navigation, communication, and feeding, and the presence of noisy watercraft interferes with these vital activities, potentially leading to disorientation and stress for these intelligent mammals.

Municipal governments around the world have successfully implemented bans or limitations on jet skis in ecologically sensitive and high-risk areas to protect both wildlife and human populations. It's time for Vancouver to follow suit and prioritize the health of our marine ecosystem by restricting jet skis in the sensitive areas of our harbour where whales and other wildlife feed, live, and travel. This action not only aligns with conservation efforts but also showcases our city's commitment to preserving natural habitats for future generations.

We therefore urge the Vancouver Park Board Commissioners to make an immediate amendment to the Vancouver Park Board’s "On Water Strategy." Specifically, we are calling for restrictions on the launching of jet skis and Sea-Doos from city-managed beaches, ramps, and park property in sensitive areas where whales and other wildlife live, feed, and travel.

The recent incident on May 4, 2026, where a motorized craft struck a feeding grey whale near Siwash Rock, has demonstrated that current strategies are insufficient. High-speed motorized craft launched from our local beaches pose an unacceptable risk to:

• Marine Wildlife: Our urban waters have become a critical feeding ground for whales. Allowing high-speed motorized access from our shores directly facilitates dangerous human-wildlife conflict.
• Public Safety: Stanley Park, English Bay, and Kitsilano Beach are high-density recreational zones. The speed and maneuverability of these craft are incompatible with the safety of swimmers, kayakers, and paddleboarders.
• Ecological Integrity: The noise and chemical pollution from motorized craft launching in sensitive intertidal zones undermine the environmental goals of the "On Water Strategy."

While the federal government regulates navigation, the Vancouver Park Board holds exclusive authority over the land used to launch these vessels. By closing launching access on city-managed property, the Board can take immediate, proactive steps to protect our marine ecosystem without waiting for federal regulatory cycles.

We urge the Board to put this amendment on the agenda for the next public meeting and prioritize the safety of our wildlife and residents over high-speed jet ski recreation.