KINGSTON, Wash — Some orca lovers are calling for more enforcement and education to ensure boats stay safe distances from whales this summer. It comes as state law is set to expand the distance vessels must stay 1,000 yards from Southern Resident orcas.
Tisa Annette said she frequently photographs whale behavior from the shore, and has seen a number of incidents in which multiple vessels approach orcas too close.
"It's not just dangerous for the whales," Annette said. "This can be increasingly dangerous for the people that are getting too close."
The Be Whale Wise program educates boaters on rules and guidelines and allows witnesses to report violations. According to the site, boats in Washington waters are required to stay 300 yards from orcas on either side and 400 yards in front of or behind them. They are also required to turn off engines if whales appear within 300 yards.
Guidelines ask boaters to turn off fish finders and echo sounders when safe, go slow within a half mile of whales, and to be aware of the Whale Warning flag when cruising the area.
While state law is meant to protect southern resident orcas, the National Oceanic Atmospheric Association (NOAA) said most people cannot tell the difference and should abide by the distances with all orcas.
Penalties for certain types of violations can include fines of up to more than $35,000.
To learn more about being "whale wise," click here.
Annette said she is hoping for more funding to increase enforcement of the laws, and advises everyone to educate themselves on orca behavior and safe viewing. She especially recommends finding somewhere to look for them from the shore, where she says she has witnessed many special encounters.
"It is all of our responsibility to these amazing beings that are here with us that we coexist with," Annette said.
A bill set to take effect in January 2025 will mandate boats stay a full 1,000 yards from Southern Resident orcas. The new law includes exemptions for incidents like oil spill response or compliance with safety requirements.