ECHO Program resources for mariners

Mariners play an important role in helping to protect at-risk whales in our waters. The ECHO Program provides resources and links for those who navigate west coast waters to help familiarize themselves with marine mammals in the region.

Below you’ll find a list of resources for mariners supported by the ECHO Program.

Whales in our Waters tutorial

The Whales in our Waters tutorial was developed for mariners by the ECHO Program and BC Ferries with the support of Ocean Wise. The tutorial takes approximately 90 minutes to complete.

Take this tutorial to build awareness of local whale species, how to identify them, and best practices to implement when navigating ships in their presence.

Register

Mariner’s Guide to Whales, Dolphins, Porpoises of Western Canada

The Mariner’s Guide to Whales, Dolphins, Porpoises of Western Canada was developed for mariners in collaboration with the Vancouver Aquarium/Ocean Wise, Prince Rupert Port Authority, and the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority’s ECHO Program.

Review this guide before transiting B.C. waters to identify marine mammals, their seasonal usage of areas along the West Coast, and ways to reduce potential interactions.

Download [PDF]

Infographic: The effects of vessel underwater noise and what mariners can do about it

This infographic was designed to help mariners understand the effects of underwater noise from ships on whales and how to reduce it.

Print out a copy and post it on your ship’s bridge or common area.

Download [PDF]

Infographic: You are making a difference for the whales

This infographic was designed to help mariners understand how their participation in voluntary slowdowns is helping reduce underwater noise and supporting the recovery of southern resident killer whales.

Print out a copy and post it on your ship’s bridge or common area.

Download [PDF]

Footnotes [PDF]

WhaleReport Alert System

The WhaleReport Alert System was developed by the B.C. Cetacean Network and was made possible with funding and project support from the Prince Rupert Port Authority and the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority’s ECHO Program. This app is intended for regional commercial ship operators, and users are verified by an administrator before receiving access.

Download this app to receive real-time notifications when whales are in range and which will alert you to help reduce the risk of physical or acoustic disturbance by slowing down or altering course.

Read more

Report a sighting | WildWhales.org