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Some orca lovers are calling for more enforcement and education to ensure boats stay safe distances from whales this summer in Washington. It comes as state law is set to expand the distance vessels must stay 1,000 yards from Southern Resident orcas.
Tisa Annette said she frequently photographs whale behavior from the shore, and has seen a number of incidents in which multiple vessels approach orcas too close.
"It's not just dangerous for the whales," Annette said. "This can be increasingly dangerous for the people that are getting too close."
The Be Whale Wise program educates boaters on rules and guidelines and allows witnesses to report violations. According to the site, boats in Washington waters are required to stay 300 yards from orcas on either side and 400 yards in front of or behind them. They are also required to turn off engines if whales appear within 300 yards.
READ MORE: https://www.king5.com/article/tech/science/environment/orca-observers-call-for-boating-safety-education-enforcement-washington/281-c3739ff2-ae46-480c-8589-0e4e81f574c0