Many of you are wondering how you can help the Southern Resident Killer Whales... Puget Sound Partnership published a suggestion of individual actions that can help:
Help restore salmon runs. Volunteer on a habitat restoration project. See orca.wa.gov for links to organizations involved in habitat restoration. (your local Fishery Enhancement Group such as Skagit Fisheries Enhancement Group, Nooksack Salmon Enhancement Association, and Sound Salmon Solutions have schedules of their work parties in need of volunteers!)
Quiet the waters of Puget Sound. If you’re a boater, give orcas space. Follow the BeWhaleWise guidelines for whale watching. (Friends of the San Juans and
www.bewhalewise.org have great resources for more information on boating near orcas)
Keep toxic chemicals out of our waterways. Stop using toxic chemicals in your home or on your landscape; fix vehicle leaks; and have your vehicle oil changed by a professional. (THIS IS HUGE! THE NUMBER ONE POLLUTANT IN PUGET SOUND IS STORMWATER RUNOFF!!! WSU Skagit County Extension Master Gardeners, Skagit Conservation District, and Skagit County Clean Water have resources to reduce your stormwater footprint)
Learn about southern resident orcas, and pass the information on to others.
Speak up for orcas. Vote. Make sure your local, state, and federal representatives know how important orcas are to you. (Email, call, or use social media to express your concerns. Governor Jay Inslee, Patty Murray, Senator Maria Cantwell as well as your local representatives need to hear from you!)
