The Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife has just adopted the strictest whale watching regulations in history! Although they did not adopt a year-round suspension, the new rules (starting early 2021) will eliminate all whale watching on the Southern Residents for 9 months of the year, with a 1/2 nautical mile distance setback for vessels. During the 3 summer months, whale watching will be restricted to two, 2-hour sessions, with restrictions on viewing mothers and their calves. This is a sea change from the current situation in which whale watching is allowed 12 months a year, 12 hours per day.

This petition made a huge difference and contributed greatly in influencing the commissioner's decision. Each signature was recorded as one comment. There were over 4,000 comments in favor of greater restrictions, with only 200 opposing. If you have a chance, please write a brief thank you to the commissioners as they are currently being attacked by the whale watching industry for their science-based decision. commission@dfw.wa.gov

Thank you so very much for standing up in support of the critically endangered orcas. Your voices have made all the difference!!!