B.C. coastal residents are hosting whale-detecting cameras and hydrophones to reduce vessel strikes and protect endangered marine mammals.
B.C. Residents Help Power New Whale Detection Network
Community members join effort to protect whales
Coastal residents in British Columbia are opening their private properties to host emerging whale-detection technology aimed at safeguarding humpbacks, orcas, and other marine mammals. The initiative gained urgency after three humpback whales were killed and another injured by vessel strikes in recent weeks along B.C.’s coastline.
New monitoring tools installed on private shorelines
In May 2024, Sunshine Coast homeowners Suzette Alvarez and Marshall Farris installed an underwater camera and a hydrophone beneath their deck overlooking Malaspina Strait. The system, operated by the Raincoast Conservation Foundation, records underwater noise to track whale activity and measure vessel impacts. Scientists say the region has long lacked acoustic monitoring, making these first-of-their-kind devices crucial for real-time data.
Researchers warn of rising noise threats
Raincoast scientist Valeria Vergara says underwater noise travels four to five times faster in water than in air, interfering with communication and feeding for humpbacks and endangered southern resident killer whales. The data helps show how easily boat noise can drown out whale songs, highlighting the urgent need for mitigation.
Thermal cameras offer another layer of protection
On Pender Island, resident Chris Roper has partnered with the W̱SÁNEĆ Marine Guardians to host a WhaleSpotter infrared camera. The system uses thermal imaging and artificial intelligence to detect whale blows in real time. Once a whale is detected, human monitors verify the alert within seconds before sending information to operators. Ten such cameras are currently deployed across B.C.’s coast.
High-traffic zones increase risks
Roper’s property sits above a designated whale sanctuary that faces constant pressure from container ships, ferries, and other vessels. Hydrophones regularly capture high noise levels, illustrating the daily challenges whales face navigating through commercial traffic routes.
Potential for speed limits informed by detection
Federal scientist Harald Yurk says these technologies, paired with community observations, can support evidence-based vessel speed limits of 10–12 knots when whales are present. Slower speeds significantly reduce the likelihood of fatal strikes, offering a practical path to safer marine traffic.
Residents hope awareness inspires change
Alvarez, who also rents her property to visitors, believes direct exposure to whale activity encourages protection. She hopes that hearing and seeing whales through these systems strengthens public connection to the marine ecosystem. “It helps you feel like they’re part of you—part of what you want to protect,” she said.
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