A new state law went into effect on January 1 requiring boaters in Washington waters to stay 1,000 yards away from Southern Resident killer whales (SRKW).
The state legislature passed the new law in 2023 that is intended to cut vessel noise that inhibits the endangered whales’ ability to echolocate for hunting and communication. The 1,000 yards, roughly half a nautical mile, will help reduce noise and allow SRKW a better chance at catching prey, according to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW).
The law, co-sponsored by 42nd Legislative District senator Sharon Shewmake (D-Bellingham), applies to motorized vessels as well as nonmotorized vessels such as kayaks and paddleboards. Under the new law, all operators must stay at least 1,000 yards from SRKW, and cut engines, luff sails or stop paddling if the a SRKW approaches within 400 yards.
Boaters who believe they are within the 1,000-yard buffer zone but outside the 400-yard danger zone should attempt to navigate away from the whale at a speed of seven knots or less, according to WDFW.
The law is written specifically for SRKW, which differ from transient killer whales which are protected by a 200-yard buffer under federal law.
All killer whale populations are federally protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, but SRKW have special federal and state protections since being named an endangered species in 2005.
Currently, there are roughly 75 SRKW living in three family pods that migrate from Puget Sound to warmer waters off the coast of California. Scientists have narrowed down three main factors for the decline in SRKW population: reduced quantity and quality of prey, organic pollutants that harm immune and reproductive function, and noise disturbance caused by human vessels.
WDFW enforcement captain Alan Myers said officers understand the challenge of keeping distance while boating, adding that officers will focus on educating boaters about the new regulations during the 2025 season.
“We recognize that there are some challenges associated with trying to predict what a group of wild animals might do, or in locations where moving 1,000 yards away could be difficult,” Myers said. “We will issue citations when necessary, especially for egregious violations or repeat offenders, but our officers will largely be focused on making sure people understand the new laws and are trying to do the right thing by giving these whales the space they need.”
For more information, visit the WDFW website or behwhalewise.org.
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