DFO Confirms Position on Relocating Luna

Wednesday, October 1, 2003
VANCOUVER, BC - Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) has confirmed that its position is to attempt to reintroduce L-98 (Luna) to his pod. The department believes this is the best way of protecting the public and the whale.

DFO hopes to relocate Luna to the Juan de Fuca Strait area with the hope that he will reunite with members of his pod and will cease his interactions with people and boats. While DFO would like to see a reintroduction occur, there are important details that need to be finalized before moving forward.

Because L-98’s pod swims in both Canadian and American waters, we are currently consulting with our US counterparts at the National Fisheries Service (NMFS). They are an important part of this plan and their input is essential to the success of a reintroduction operation. DFO has been working with an international scientific panel of experts to develop a comprehensive plan to ensure that risks to the whale and public are mitigated.

Upon finalizing arrangements with our US partners, DFO will accept scientific licence applications from individuals, groups, or organizations that can demonstrate the expertise and financial capacity to undertake this initiative. DFO will make an announcement once all details of the plan are finalized.

While it is hoped that Luna will reunite with his family group, known as the L-pod, the likelihood of re-unification is not assured. There are many risks associated with this kind of operation. If it fails, DFO may need to consider other options, including captivity or other permanent means, of dealing with Luna. DFO’s priority is the protection of the public and the whale.

For More Information:

Luna News from Activists -- www.reuniteluna.com
Fisheries Canada Luna Page -- www-comm.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/pages/MarineMammals/l98_e.htm
National Marine Fisheries Service -- www.nwr.noaa.gov