Luna Capture Operation To Proceed This Week

Monday, June 21, 2004
GOLD RIVER, BC - Vancouver Aquarium staff are reassembling in Gold River today, after Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) suspended the possible capture of Luna (L98) this past weekend.

“DFO made the decision to allow First Nations the opportunity to practice their cultural traditions of singing and drumming with Luna (L98) over the weekend,” said Marilyn Joyce, Marine Mammal Coordinator for Fisheries and Oceans Canada.

The crew is reviewing the operational plan to ensure everyone is prepared for a possible capture this week. Live, wild salmon were delivered to the fish holding pen on the weekend, making sure that there is sufficient food on hand for Luna. Divers have confirmed that the holding pen for Luna remains secure and ready.

DFO patrol vessels are on the water today to fuel up and to locate Luna. The capture phase of this operation could begin as early as Tuesday, June 22, 2004 assuming that today's briefing and last minute checks are complete.

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