Statement from the Puget Sound Partnership's Executive Director on the deaths of three Southern Resident orca

Puget Sound Partnership Washington sent this bulletin at 08/08/2019 04:03 PM PDT

MEDIA ADVISORY
August 8, 2019

MEDIA CONTACT: Cathy Cochrane, 360.790.7958, cathy.cochrane@psp.wa.gov

STATEMENT FROM PUGET SOUND PARTNERSHIP EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR LAURA BLACKMORE ON THE DEATHS OF THREE SOUTHERN RESIDENT ORCAS

We are deeply saddened to learn of the presumed deaths of three endangered Southern Resident orcas, L84, K25, and J17. These new losses cut deeply, and we grieve with all those who mourn these symbols of Puget Sound. Our orcas are dying because the marine environment they live in is ailing and there are too few salmon for them to eat. The Puget Sound Partnership stands with Governor Inslee, the Governor’s Southern Resident Orca Task Force, and the many tribes, government agencies, organizations, businesses and individuals who are committed to helping recover the orca population. Together, we can help by restoring salmon runs, quieting the waters of Puget Sound, and getting toxic chemicals out of our waterways.

Many important policy and enforcement actions to recover orcas are taking place now, but individuals play a critical role too. There are many things you and our family can do to help. Here are a few simple examples:

Help restore salmon runs. Volunteer on a habitat restoration project. See orca.wa.gov for links to organizations involved in habitat restoration.
Quiet the waters of Puget Sound. If you’re a boater, give orcas space. Follow the BeWhaleWise guidelines for whale watching.
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.
Learn about Southern Resident orcas, and pass the information on to others. See orca.wa.gov for a list of resources.
Speak up for orcas. Vote. Make sure your local, state, and federal representatives know how important orcas are to you.

About the Puget Sound Partnership

The Puget Sound Partnership is the state agency formed to lead the region’s collective effort to restore and protect Puget Sound. Working with hundreds of government agencies, tribes, scientists, businesses, and nonprofits, the Partnership mobilizes partner action around a common agenda, advances Sound investments, and tracks progress to optimize recovery.

For more information, go to www.psp.wa.gov.

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