OLYMPIA, Wash. — The state Department of Fish and Wildlife has teamed up with researchers, advocates and representatives of the whale-watching industry to develop rules for a new license.
The committee is considering a variety of changes, including a limit on the number of commercial whale watchers for each viewing period and capping the time allowed to watch the Southern Residents.
DFW’s Killer Whale Policy Lead Julie Watson told KOMO the goal is to make the industry a partner in conservation.
A scientific panel will also analyze how orcas are impacted by underwater noise.
A public comment period will be held in the fall.