
Orca Recovery Day - Dash the Distance, Walk for Whales
Join the San Juan County Marine Resources Committee for Orca Recovery Day, a regional day of action dedicated to protecting and restoring habitat for Southern Resident killer whales (SRKW) and the Salish Sea ecosystem.
This year, we’re marking the day with a fun and educational community event — Dash the Distance: Walk for Whales! Starting in 2025, new state boating regulations will require vessels to stay 1,000 yards (about half a mile) away from SRKW. That’s a tough distance to picture — so we’re bringing it to life! Participants will walk or run the same distance that boaters must now give whales on the water.
The event is free and family-friendly, with opportunities to learn about local orca recovery efforts, safe boating practices, and simple actions you can take to protect our marine neighbors. Whether you dash, stroll, or cheer from the sidelines, your participation helps spread awareness and build a culture of stewardship across the islands.
Date: Saturday, October 18
Location: Jackson Beach on San Juan Island
Time: 10am - Registration
10:30am Walk/Run Begins
11:00am - Celebration and tabling with local orca research and educational organizations
Questions: email mrc@sanjuancountywa.gov
Together, we can give whales the space they need to thrive.