Category: Latest News
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New Boating Rules Now in Effect Protecting Southern Resident Killer Whales
Southern Resident killer whales are teetering on the brink of extinction. As of July 1, 2024, the Southern Resident killer whale population was recorded at 73 individuals. These iconic whales depend on the waters of the Salish Sea to forage, rest, and raise their young. However, vessel noise and close approaches disrupt these vital activities,…
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Win for wild salmon and orca!
In January, Washington permanently banned commercial finfish net-pen aquaculture on state aquatic lands — a historic victory for wild salmon, Southern Resident orcas, and clean waters in the Salish Sea, achieved through years of science, advocacy, and community action.
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Director’s Update – 2024 Impact
As we reflect on this year, I feel a deep sense of gratitude for what we’ve accomplished together. 2024 marked a defining chapter in the story of Friends of the San Juans—a time shaped by intentional reflection, bold action, and powerful community engagement. With your support, we celebrate 45 years as the leading advocacy organization…
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Mullis Center Seniors Swim with Salmon!
On December 2nd, twelve members of the Mullis Community Senior Center donned virtual reality headsets and embarked on an incredible underwater journey through the Salish Sea. They swam among swaying bull kelp forests, vast schools of herring, spawning salmon, and more! This unique event was part of Friends of the San Juans’ Immersive Salish Sea…
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San Juan County’s Comprehensive Plan Demystified
Are you new to “Comp Plan land”?We’ve got you covered! What is the Comp Plan, and Why Does It Matter? The San Juan County Comprehensive Plan is like a roadmap for our community’s future. It’s designed to manage growth and keep the islands a healthy place to live by setting long-term goals to protect our environment,…
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Election Season Update
Friends of the San Juans — Protecting the San Juans and Salish Sea The San Juan Islands and Salish Sea are like no other place on Earth. That’s why we must protect them! As election season is upon us, we are all reminded of what is at stake if we were to lose what we…
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Welcoming three new board members!
Raven Preston, Orcas Island — Raven is a seasoned user experience researcher and communication strategist with a passion for leveraging data-driven insights to drive impactful change. Her work focuses on improving user engagement and developing strategies within the SAFe Agile framework. With a background in integrating Black and Indigenous methodologies, Raven brings a culturally responsive…
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Volunteer Spotlight: Dr. Manny Eusebio
Dr. Manny Eusebio models exceptional Green Boater practices and does so proudly and with the health of our larger community in mind! Manny and his wife, Chris, moved their family’s sailboat to Bellingham from Seattle, where he continues to support the health of children as a pediatrician with Peace Health. In Dr. Manny’s volunteer time,…
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FISH WAR Film Screening
Panel Discussion + Lummi Blackhawk Dancers Commemorating the 50th Anniversary of the Boldt Decision During Native American Heritage Month On Saturday, November 9th at 6:30 PM, Friends of the San Juans, in collaboration with the Stewardship Network of the San Juans and Friday Harbor Film Festival, will host a special screening of the documentary FISH…
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Friends Secures Safer Waters for Southern Resident Killer Whales
Friends of the San Juans secured safer waters for Southern Resident killer whales by working with Phillips 66 to backhaul vessels, avoiding additional tanker trips and protecting critical habitat.
