British Columbia proposes stricter whale-watching rules to save endangered orcas

New rules for whale watching in British Columbia could soon come into force. The proposed changes would increase the minimum distance operators must keep from endangered southern resident orcas. Officials say the move aims to better protect the struggling population while keeping the industry running.

The Canada Gazette published the plans this month, opening a consultation period for feedback until April 21. If approved, the rules would bring B.C. in line with existing regulations in Washington State. The southern resident orca population has been shrinking for years. In July 2025, the Center for Whale Research recorded just 74 individuals. By March 2026, that number dropped further to 71 after two deaths—a female and a young male—with no new births reported.

Whale watching remains a key part of B.C.'s economy, but sightings of southern residents have become rare. Operators with the Pacific Whale Watch Association haven't actively viewed these orcas in local waters since 2019. Under the proposed changes, the minimum distance for southern residents would increase beyond the current 200 metres. However, the 200-metre rule would stay in place for other killer whale species.

Erin Gless, executive director of the Pacific Whale Watch Association, has backed the adjustments. She believes the new measures will help protect the endangered orcas without disrupting tours focused on non-endangered whales. The public now has until April 21 to submit comments on the proposed rules. If implemented, the stricter distance requirements would apply only to southern resident orcas, leaving other whale-watching activities unchanged. The changes reflect ongoing efforts to reverse the population's decline while balancing economic and conservation needs.