Bulletins
Gulf Islands National Park Reserve
Notice: Interim Order for the protection of Killer Whales in the waters of Southern British Columbia (June 1 – Oct 31, 2019)
Issued: June 01, 2019
Ends: October 31, 2019
Boaters need to be aware when boating around killer whales. Always slow down when killer whales are near, if safe to do so.
Rules that apply year-round:
- Keep 200 metres away from all killer whale populations in B.C.
Rules from June 1 until October 31 in critical habitat:
- Keep 400 metres away when you see any killer whales.
- No fishing or boating off the east coast of Saturna Island, south-west of North Pender Island and around certain sections of Swiftsure Bank.
Additional ways you can help:
- Go Slow! Reduce your speed to less than 7 knots and avoid fishing when you’re within 1,000 metres of a killer whale.
- Areas to be aware of include Gulf Islands, the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Mouth of the Fraser River.
- Reduce noise from boats by turning off your echo sounders when not in use, and engines to neutral idle when within 400 metres of a killer whale.
Check out some additional resources:
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Handout: boating around killer whales
- Protecting Canada’s Endangered Whales
- Be Whale Wise
If you have any questions about the Interim Order, please contact Transport Canada.
If you have any questions about fishery closures or boating around whales, please contact Fisheries and Oceans Canada.;
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