Evaluation of Cumulative Environmental Effects on the Endangered Southern Resident Killer Whales

Abstract

With only 74 members left, the Southern Resident Killer Whales (SRKW) of the Salish Sea, are endangered under the Canadian Species at Risk Act (DFO, 2018) and the United States Endangered Species Act (US EPA, 2017). The Trans Mountain Expansion Project became a nationwide topic when the Project approval was overturned by the Federal Court of Appeal in August 2018, who cited lack of review of the predicted noise increase and its subsequent effects on the SRKW. This research study identifies the threats affecting the SRKW, assesses marine vessels that impose a cumulative noise effect, and suggests mitigation methods to manage traffic and minimize adverse effects on the SRKW. By corresponding with industry professionals, reviewing published literature and analysing case studies, it was concluded that no matter how small an increase of marine traffic in the SRKW critical habitat, it is significant considering the vulnerable state of the SRKW population.