By Casey Mclean / For The Herald
In Washington state, marine mammals are more than just ocean residents; they’re an essential part of our identity, economy, and coastal ecosystems. From the Southern Resident killer whales to harbor seals and sea lions, these animals reflect the health of the Puget Sound and the broader Pacific coast. Yet, they face mounting threats; from climate-driven changes to food supply, pollution, vessel traffic, underwater noise and much more.
The health of marine life is inextricably linked to the health of the ocean; and, by extension, our own well-being. However, it was not long ago that our region lacked the adequate resources, expertise, facilities and partnerships needed to treat sick and injured marine life; and give them a second chance in the wild. Now we do, and it allows us to influence and support proactive protections rather than reactive ones. This work is critical and if we’re serious about protecting these animals, we as a community must invest in long-term, sustained response and research.
Why long-term? Because marine mammals live on ecological timelines; not election cycles. They live decades, migrate thousands of miles, and respond slowly and subtly to environmental changes. Short-term studies offer useful insights, but they can’t uncover generational shifts in behavior, health or survival rates. Long-term datasets are critical for understanding population trends, reproductive patterns and the effectiveness of policy interventions.
Thanks to research right here in Washington, including at SR3, we know that chinook salmon decline is starving the Southern Resident killer whales, that noise from shipping lanes disrupts their ability to hunt, and that even low levels of pollution have a devastating impact on their health. This understanding took years and years of investment, collaboration, and fieldwork. Remember, it was only in 2005 that these killer whales became officially listed on the Endangered Species Act list.
Under-prioritizing marine mammal research now would mean turning a blind eye at a critical moment—when both the pressures and the opportunities for recovery are intensifying. This life-saving work also relies almost exclusively on private philanthropy and foundation grants, which means we need more people engaged and aware of these issues.
Additionally, with the Marine Mammal Protection Act at risk facing threats from proposed legislation, we could see protections unravel that have helped many populations recover and thrive for more than 50 years, creating an even broader challenge to the work we do.
Washington has long been a leader in marine conservation. Let’s continue to lead by committing to long-term conservation efforts. Because if we lose these animals, we lose something irreplaceable; not just biologically, but culturally and spiritually.
Casey Mclean, is a veterinary nurse and executive director at SR3, a nonprofit in the Pacific Northwest dedicated to improving marine wildlife health and welfare.
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