Understanding and complying with marine mammal regulations and guidelines can be an obstacle for boaters - it’s often challenging to correctly estimate distances on the water, and wildlife can be hard to spot while underway. During field operations, our Soundwatch team provides in situ education to vessel operators around whales and other wildlife, informing them of the species nearby, the rules that apply, and how they can best share the water. This type of outreach is incredibly valuable for fostering a sense of marine stewardship within our community, serving as a resource for boaters who might otherwise be unable to fully comply with the laws.

Inspiring stewardship of the marine environment starts with effective and accessible education. Through the Be Whale Wise partnership, I deliver virtual and in-person lectures on the research behind marine mammal regulations, and how to comply with the laws that apply to vessel operations. Thanks to our partners at Northwest Marine Trade Association, we also have the opportunity to interact with new and seasoned boaters at regional boat shows, providing them with outreach materials including brochures and Whale Warning Flags.

Providing robust, accurate science to inform regulations and guidelines is the backbone of effective management. Through the Soundwatch Program, I deliver annual reporting and analyses characterizing vessel trends and whale behavior to state, federal, and international policymakers. Communicating the science is an essential component in the conservation and recovery of endangered species and other wildlife. Our team also collaborates with our partners at Port of Vancouver and Maritime Blue to provide timely sightings information, supporting vessel slowdown measures for the protection of Southern Resident killer whales.