New rules for watching endangered orcas in Washington take effect in 2021

The state Fish and Wildlife Commission says new regulations for whale watching in Washington waters will take effect in 2021 in an effort to protect endangered orcas. According to rules approved last week, commercial whale watching companies can view Southern Resident orcas during two, two-hour periods daily from July through September. The rules restrict the number of commercial vessels to three within a half-mile of a group of whales and include penalties for violations. Officials say regulating the boats is a starting point, and it’s also introducing new permit processes.