About Straitwatch

The Straitwatch program arose from a concern about the impact of a growing number of vessels in the waters frequented by marine mammals. A growing body of research has shown that these animals are affected by both the presence of vessel traffic and the associated noise. This must be considered in the context of high levels of environmental contaminants, and decreased availability of key prey, such as salmon. It is, thus, important that stresses caused by “poor” whale watching behaviour and high-speed boat traffic be minimized.

Where are we based?
Straitwatch is based in Alert Bay, on Cormorant Island. Learn more about Alert Bay.
In summer, we have a field office in Victoria.

Patrol Area - North Island
The Straitwatch stewardship vessel operating off northeastern Vancouver Island focuses efforts in the core area of Johnstone Strait area. However, our entire patrol range extends west to the Port Hardy area and east to Campbell River. This area has an abundance of marine mammals and sea birds.

Straitwatch - North Island Patrol Range

 

Patrol Area - South Island
The Straitwatch stewardship vessel operating off southern Vancouver Island focuses efforts in the core area of Haro Strait. However, our entire patrol range extends north into Active Passage and south and west to the U.S. border and west to Race Rocks.

Straitwatch - South Island Patrol Range