Canada issues 2024 bulletin on protecting killer whales

Transport Canada has issued Ship Safety Bulletin 27/2024, dated November 15, 2024, outlining vessel regulations under the Interim Order for the Protection of the Killer Whale (Orcinus orca) in southern British Columbia. The measures are designed to protect the endangered Southern Resident Killer Whales, which are vulnerable to disturbances from marine vessels, particularly in critical feeding areas. The regulations are in effect from June 1, 2024, to May 31, 2025, and aim to reduce the impact of vessel noise and create temporary refuges for the whales.

Key Requirements:

Minimum Approach Distance:
All vessels, including pleasure craft, must stay at least 400 metres away from all killer whales in specific areas, such as the Salish Sea and their critical habitats, until May 31, 2025. There are some exceptions for vessels in transit, or those conducting authorized activities under the Species at Risk Act, Marine Mammal Regulations, or the Fishery (General) Regulations.
Prohibition Against Positioning Vessels in Whale Paths:
Vessels are prohibited from placing themselves in the path of any killer whale. This rule is in effect from June 1, 2024, to May 31, 2025. There are exceptions for certain vessels, including those that are at anchor, not under command, or restricted in their ability to maneuver.
Interim Sanctuary Zones (June 1 – Nov 30, 2024):
- There are two Interim Sanctuary Zones where vessels are completely prohibited from navigating:
  - Off the southwest coast of North Pender Island.
  - Off the eastern tip of Saturna Island.
- Exceptions to this prohibition include local traffic traveling between Pender Island and Saturna Island or accessing businesses or homes within these zones. Also, human-powered vessels are allowed to use a 20-meter transit corridor beside the zones. Indigenous peoples and those engaged in authorized activities may also be exempt.
Speed Restrictions:
- Vessels must reduce their speed to 10 knots or less over ground in the two speed-restricted zones near Swiftsure Bank. This is mandatory for all vessels, including pleasure craft, when safe to do so.
- A voluntary speed reduction zone is also in place in Tumbo Channel. Here, vessels are encouraged to maintain speeds below 10 knots when safe.
Compliance and Penalties:
- All vessels must comply with these measures and any NAVWARNs (Navigational Warnings) issued by the Canadian Coast Guard.
- Failure to comply with the Interim Order may result in significant penalties, including:
  - Administrative fines up to $250,000.
  - Criminal fines up to $1 million.
  - Imprisonment for up to 18 months.
Reporting Killer Whales in Distress:
If you observe an injured, stranded, or dead killer whale, you should immediately contact the BC Marine Mammal Response Network at 1-800-465-4336 or use VHF Channel 16.

Purpose of the Interim Order:

The purpose of these regulations is to protect the Southern Resident Killer Whales, which are endangered under the Species at Risk Act. These whales are particularly vulnerable to underwater noise and physical disturbances from marine vessels, which can hinder their ability to find food and communicate. The measures were developed to reduce the impact of such disturbances and provide temporary safe zones for these whales to help with their survival and recovery.