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
Orca Recovery Day
The eighth annual Orca Recovery Day is October 18, 2025. Orca Recovery Day is a regional initiative to raise awareness and support for the endangered Southern Resident orcas.
Kinds of events hosted for Orca Recovery Day include:
- Riparian restoration
- Urban tree planting
- Watershed/stormwater education
- Litter clean up
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.
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.
News and Events
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July 14, 2025
New Research Shows Orcas Have Been Trying to Feed People
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June 25, 2025
Southern Resident Killer Whales Observed Making Tools Out of Environmental Objects
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June 25, 2025
Sign-up to Host an Orca Recovery Day Event
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June 25, 2025
Ecology Shares Plan to Clean up Puget Sound Nutrient Pollution
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)