Submitted by the Center for Whale Research

The Center For Whale Research held its first workshop and auction on July 21 with a focus on research, action and recovery of the Southern resident killer whales.

The Celebrating Science Workshop filled every seat at Brickworks, with 150 registered attendees. Ken Balcomb, founder and senior scientist of the Center For Whale Research opened the day explaining that the local orcas are at risk of extinction, and group effort is needed to save them. In 2016, the population suffered the loss of several members including long-time matriarch J-2, or Granny, leaving only 78 individuals in the population.

Various speakers delivered the latest research on killer whales conservation, action and population recovery. Speakers included Balcomb, Deborah Giles, Ph.D, Astrid van Ginneken, Ph.D, Dave Ellifrit, Jane Cogan, and the Center For Whale Research team, in partnership with researchers from the University of Exeter under the direction of Professor Darren Croft and the University of York

Ralph Munro, the former Washington Secretary of State, tributed Balcomb and presented a First Nations orca whale painting to him. He received a standing ovation.

The Raise A Glass For Research FUNraiser immediately followed, drawing an eager crowd of supporters for the Center For Whale Research. The enthusiasm was contagious as the silent auction was followed by a spirited live auction. Live auction bidding on individual items went as high as $3,100 for dorsal fin art of J-2, or Granny, created by Friday Harbor High School STEM students.

“The response from this community for the whales brought tears to my eyes,” said Balcomb. “We must show the rest of the world how important it is to our souls to have these whales as neighbors, and do our best to ensure their survival for future generations.”

The Center For Whale Research wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the local community for the tremendous outpouring of support. All monies raised support the Center For Whale Research as they continue conducting imperative studies on the Southern resident killer whales. Additional information can be found at www.whaleresearch.com.

Contributed photo/ Cher Renke Ken Balcomb hugs London Fletcher after she won a replica of an orca fin at the live auction.

Contributed photo/Amber Chenoweth Photography London Fletcher shows off the orca fin she won in the live auction.

Contributed photo/Lodie Gilbert Budwill Ken Balcomb and Verne Howard at the event.

Contributed photo/Lodie Gilbert Budwill Ken Balcomb and Ralph Munro raise a glass together.

Contributed photo/Amber Chenoweth Photography A young girl is excited to join the live auction.