Rising of the Salish Sea

Map: Salish Sea Marine Sanctuary

The term “Salish Sea” (pronounced ‘SAY-lish’) was first proposed in 1989 by professor Bert Webber (previous owner of MV Snow Goose), as a means to unite an interdependent area and help promote protection of its ecosystem.

This transboundary sea includes the Strait of Georgia, the Strait of Juan de Fuca, Puget Sound, and associated smaller waterways. Comprising about 17,000 sq. kilometers and 7,470 kilometers of coastline, the Salish Sea stretches from Desolation Sound at the north end of the Georgia Strait, around the Canadian Gulf Islands and U.S. San Juan Islands, to Oakland Bay located at the south end of Puget Sound. These rich waters are home to a multitude of animals, many of which are at risk. One such species is the Southern Resident Orca. With no surviving calves in the past three years and further deaths this summer leaving only 73 whales remaining, this crisis has now reached global attention.

Bert & Sue Webber - right centre

Bert Despite Bert Webber’s efforts, it was not until 2009 in the United States and 2010 in Canada, that the name “Salish Sea” was officially adopted. A means to pay homage to the collective history of the Coast Salish peoples – the diverse nations of the Pacific Northwest sharing a common linguistic and cultural origin – who traversed these waters for thousands of years.

Although it has been ten years since ratification, if you are still unfamiliar with the "Salish Sea", you are not alone. In a survey performed by Oregon State University and the SeaDoc Society earlier this year, it was found that only 9% of Washingtonians and 15% of British Columbians identified the overall body of water as the Salish Sea. While the name “Salish Sea” is meant to complement – not replace – existing names, it is meant to raise consciousness by defining the entire co-dependent region. Therefore, these results perhaps raise questions on how we might better protect this interconnected ecosystem through improved geographic awareness.

Bluewater Adventures is excited to present an opportunity to explore the myriad of Islands located in the Canadian Gulf Islands in the northern reaches of the Salish Sea - spring of 2020 - dates still available for a family charter or just book on yourself - contact us for more details. 

www.bluewateradventures.ca