The Vancouver Aquarium released the following statement yesterday.

The Vancouver Aquarium Marine Science Centre has been authorized to begin the physical relocation of Luna by Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO).

After looking at the movements of L-pod over the past few weeks, and confirming that plans are in place to proceed, DFO approved the initiation of Phase II, the physical relocation. Public safety and the safety of the whale remain the priorities. Recent incidences in Gold River where L98 interfered with floatplanes and boats, affirms that the situation needs to be addressed as soon as possible.

Sightings of L-pod in the Juan de Fuca Strait and Haro Strait over the past few weeks indicate that the pod has returned to the area for the summer, and the chances for a natural reunification of L98 to L-pod are no longer viable.

Vancouver Aquarium staff continue to prepare the site and operational logistics for the safe capture, holding, and care of Luna (L98).

Although all required funds are not in hand at this point, DFO and the Aquarium agree there are sufficient funds to begin the capture and transport of Luna to Pedder Bay. Overall funding needs ultimately depend on how long Luna is held in Pedder Bay before acoustical contact is made with his pod, and he can be released. If this period is relatively short, the current funding provided will be sufficient.

As this time frame is impossible to predict, DFO and the Aquarium will continue to seek funding, even as the operation proceeds. Donations can be made to 1-800-663-0562, or at www.vanaqua.org.

The US and Canadian Governments have each committed $130K, $60K in cash has been donated, and there has been $290K in in-kind donations. Given the situation with Luna in Gold River, DFO and the Aquarium believe the operation must proceed immediately.

The plan involves leading Luna into a net pen; this is likely to take place over several days, as time is needed to allow Luna to get used to the log booms, boat and other parts of the operation. Success will depend, in part, on having a quiet and normal environment. For this reason, an exclusion zone for boats and aircraft will be in place.

A media update will be provided each day by the capture team describing what was attempted and accomplished that day.

While it is hoped that Luna will reunite with his family group and no longer be a risk to the public, scientists agree that, while a successful reintroduction cannot be guaranteed, this is the best approach to give Luna the opportunity to reunite with his pod, while protecting public.

The best way the public can help Luna is to stay away. If he is distracted by boats, aircraft or people, his chances for reuniting with his family group may be compromised.

For more information, please contact:
Angela Nielsen
Vancouver Aquarium
604-659-3516
604-735-4506

Lara Sloan
Fisheries and Oceans
604-666-0903
604-868-3162