So there is an effort taking place and you can read more about it here.
There have been workshops however they are not publicized, nor is the information discussed publicly or available for the public. This is a public issue and needs to involve everyone. How can just a few people manage a problem created by an entire continent? I fully respect those on the panel and those making efforts to help recover the Southern Resident killer whale population. There is a form you can fill out requesting participation where you submit your credentials and intentions. Should it really be that difficult to be part of a solution? Since when does credentials determine if you should be allowed to understand a problem that involves everyone. This must be public domain!
A friend of mine asked her boss who attended the latest workshop (Oct) about what was covered and if it was possible to see the information however he replied with “sorry that is confidential information”.
WHY!? Why is this not being shared? I have waited a year to see if something would surface, campaigns, initiatives but nothing. I have spoken to several people who are actively involved within the marine mammal environment and we have all agreed that this door must be opened. For how long will we go on ignoring this problem? We hope our initiative (to be unveiled in spring 2005) will be part of an eye opening process for all. We must all understand how our behaviors have contributed to this problem and only then will a problem this big be understood on many levels and solutions start to take place.
There are many of us who can help. The whales are dying and many people do not understand why. Once finished my first course (1 of 8 – 7 more to go) I will meet and request direction from Dr Peter Ross who is the toxicologist for the Southern Resident killer whales. He discovered that these animals contain the highest levels of contaminants on the planet. I will ask him how the public can get involved and why they have not been informed of the progress and workshop events to date. I respect the work that Peter has done and appreciate him sharing his work with the public. This issue is tied into our own human health and future sustainability. I want to know what the future holds.
