Critical tool: New whale detection technology being used in B.C. waters [Video]

New technology is being implemented in B.C. waters with the goal of reducing whale and commercial vessel collisions.

Ocean Wise has announced new underwater microphones will be used to detect whales in B.C. waters.

Once whales are detected, commercial vessels will be alerted of their nearby presence via a Whale Report Alert System.

These alerts will help mariners determine when to slow down, re-route, or stop to avoid whale disturbance and injury.

“In light of the ongoing issue of vessel impacts on whales in B.C. waters, implementing new ways to protect marine mammals is more important than ever,” said Dr. Chloe Robinson, Ocean Wise’s Whales Initiative director.

“This integration solidifies the (alert system) as a critical tool for reducing impact on marine mammals in waters on the Pacific Coast. By supplementing our community science-supplied sightings with hydrophone alerts that detect whale vocalizations in real time, we expect to be able to provide even more alerts to keep whales …