Defenders of Wildlife released a report today revealing multiple threats to Southern Resident orcas from pollution in the Salish Sea. These orcas are some of the most contaminated and endangered marine mammals in the world.
Robb Krehbiel, Northwest representative for Defenders of Wildlife, issued this statement:
“Orcas are sick and starving. We know what the problems are, and we know how to solve them. What we need now is political will and bold leadership to save these whales.
“By reducing the amount of pollution in the Salish Sea, we can provide these orcas with healthy and abundant salmon here in their summer range. We strongly encourage the Governor and the Washington State Legislature to commit funding and resources to programs that reduce stormwater runoff and remove derelict vessels, creosote pilings and other pollution sources from Puget Sound.
“If we fail to act now, these whales could disappear in our lifetime. This is unacceptable.”
For nearly 80 years, Defenders of Wildlife has worked to protect and restore America’s wildlife at risk of extinction, advancing a vision of a future in which wildlife thrives, sustained by broad public support and a resilient network of healthy lands and waters. With a network of more than 2 million supporters, Defenders is an advocate for innovative solutions to safeguard wildlife for generations to come. To learn more, please visit https://defenders.org/newsroom or follow us on Instagram @defendersofwildlife.
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