the film
forum
library
tutorial
contact 		Commentaries and editorials

OPALCO Stands with Whales
and Supports Hydro System

by Orcas Power and Light Cooperative
The Islands' Sounder, September 28, 2019

Reaching over the blowhole of the orca known as J50 with a carbon fiber windsurf mast, researchers last month used a petri dish to collect breath droplets from the whale. J50 is emaciated and may also have an infection. She is a member of the critically endangered southern resident clan of killer whales, which has just 75 members. (Katy Foster / Photo taken under NMFS permit number 21368) (Katy Foster/NOAA Fisheries)

At the September board meeting, the Orcas Power and Light Cooperative Board of Directors unanimously resolved to support:

OPALCO supports the whales and our hydro system. The co-op board, along with more than 25 peer utilities in the region, places their trust in the ongoing federal environmental study to provide the science necessary to understand the full web of interdependent issues at play that includes salmon; water temperature; vessel noise; ocean acidification; pollution; forage fish habitat; and climate change.

"We believe we can build a successful future for our Orca whales, salmon, forage fish and wildlife, clean air and water while keeping our power carbon-free with the federal hydro system and all of the benefits it brings to the region," board President Vince Dauciunas stated.

The resolution was read at the September board meeting with members in attendance. Board materials are posted online each Monday before a board meeting at www.opalco.com. Read the full resolution here (pages 12-13). Members are welcome to attend board meetings.

Orcas Power and Light Cooperative
OPALCO Stands with Whales and Supports Hydro System
The Islands' Sounder, September 28, 2019

See what you can learn

learn more on topics covered in the film
see the video
read the script
learn the songs
discussion forum
salmon animation