What is Orca Recovery Day?
In response to Tahlequah’s image of grief and the increasing need to help our orcas, Washington conservation districts created Orca Recovery Day, an intentional day of action to restore habitat, reduce stormwater pollution, and educate the public about things they can do everyday to help one of the most iconic species of the Pacific Northwest.
COVID-19 has forced us all to adjust to a new normal, but that doesn't mean conservation efforts stop. In fact, for our own health and the health of our communities, hands on conservation is more important than ever! So are you ready to roll up your sleeves for Orcas? Dozens of partners have small, in-person volunteer events for Orca Recovery Day or you can join the effort in the safety of your own home or neighborhood by joining our Ecochallenge! You can learn more about the in person opportunities at BetterGround.org.
The Problem
There are only 74 Southern Resident Orcas left. Orcas rely on their main food source, the endangered Chinook salmon, to survive. Due to habitat loss, climate change and increased pollution, it has become even more difficult for migrating salmon to make the journey home to create new fish. In order to save our orcas, we must start with our salmon and reducing the stormwater pollution that builds up in them and poisons orcas.
What Can You Do?
Each one of us has something to offer in the fight for our orcas. You can plant native shrubs and trees, collect trash along roads and beaches, or expand your green space outside your office building- anything that makes the environment better than how you found it.
If you’re unable to do something physical, there’s other options for you. You can educate yourself, those around you, and even your elected officials on the issues facing orcas. If your specialty lies in social media, blogging or videography, we can use your skills to bring more awareness to #OrcaRecoveryDay.
There’s strength in numbers. With all of us working together, there’s still time to save our orcas.