Saving Southern Resident Orcas
Join thousands of Washingtonians as we work together to save these magnificent creatures. Our Partners
Working Together
Southern Resident killer whales, or orcas, are a beloved icon of the Pacific Northwest but sadly they are going extinct. Governor Jay Inslee created the Southern Resident Killer Whale Task Force to develop recommendations for ways we can recover this unique population. This Web site tracks the progress implementing those recommendations. Below are the six categories of challenges to orca recovery.
“If we’re going to save these beautiful, magnificent creatures, we have a lot to do and fast. I call upon all Washingtonians to do what they can to help save our orcas. If we all work together, I know we can make a difference.” -Governor Jay Inslee
Prey
Vessels
Contaminants
Climate Change
Funding and Accountability
Future Growth
All Task Force Recommendations
View Recommendations
Be Whale Wise
There are lots of options for viewing whales, whether from the safety of a computer Webcam provided by The Whale Museum or from the beautiful shoreline. The least impactful way to see Southern Resident killer whales in person is from shore. Check out The Whale Trail’s information for great locations to watch all of the region’s whale species from land. If taking a whale-watching tour, be sure to go with a licensed, professional company that knows the laws. If you see whales from your own watercraft, whether it’s a motorized boat or kayak, remember orcas are impacted by disturbance and noise from all vessels, so Be Whale Wise and follow the rules to make it safe for you and the whales.
New Boater Rule
As of January 1, 2025, boaters in Washington waters must stay 1,000 yards away from Southern Resident killer whales at all times.
Connect with Whales
Visit the Resource Library to see the many ways to hear, see, and learn about whales. For example, hear the difference between orca calls at the Center for Whale Research Web site or listen live to underwater microphones hosted by Orcasound.
News and Events
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February 25, 2025
Baby Orca is Healthy and It’s a Girl
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February 21, 2025
Register for the 2025 Salish Sea Strategy Regional Speaker Sessions
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February 12, 2025
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Invites Public Participation in Annual Salmon Season-setting Process
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January 27, 2025
How Tahlequah and her Dead Calf Tell the Story of Climate Change
Prey photograph from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Vessels photograph by Alan Niles, Pacific Whale Watch Association
Be Whale Wise and Orca Action Month photographs by Jeanne Hyde
Connect with Whales photograph from National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (News May 14, 2015)