Seattle, WASHINGTON (July 14, 2025) – Maritime Blue is proud to announce that AltaGas | ALA Energy has made a $100,000 donation to the Quiet Sound program, a groundbreaking initiative dedicated to protecting the endangered Southern Resident killer whales (SRKW) in the Salish Sea.
This donation, building on their ongoing sponsorship and participation in the program, marks a significant investment in the preservation of critical orca habitat at a time when this species risks extinction. Quiet Sound, a program housed at Maritime Blue, brings together tribal governments, state and federal agencies, scientific researchers, nonprofits, and maritime industry leaders to reduce the impact of underwater noise on SRKWs.
“With this donation, AltaGas is demonstrating their commitment to the marine ecosystem,” said Rachel Aronson, Quiet Sound Program Director. “AltaGas and the Quiet Sound coalition are improving our ability to detect whales in real-time, alert mariners to their presence, implement programs to reduce vessel impact, and advance the latest research on vessel quieting technology.”
The Southern Resident killer whales rely on sound to hunt, navigate, and communicate. Underwater noise and proximity of commercial vessels can interfere with these essential behaviors. AltaGas’ support will help Quiet Sound continue and build on regionally-tailored programs and research helping endangered whales coexist alongside a thriving maritime economy.
“With AltaGas’ support, we are making a difference to quiet SRKW habitat and alert mariners to whale presence,” Aronson added. “By diminishing underwater noise, we’re safeguarding the Southern Residents’ acoustic habitat. Improved orca echolocation and communication means better hunting and mating opportunities, empowering these endangered creatures to thrive.”
“At AltaGas, we are committed to being a responsible and engaged partner in the communities where we live and operate.,” said Andrea McNamara Doyle, AltaGas’ External Affairs and Tribal Relations Manager for Washington State. “We are proud to support Quiet Sound and their work in protecting Southern Resident killer whales and advancing sustainable maritime practices in Washington’s waters. This donation reflects our belief that industry and environmental stewardship can move forward together—through innovation, collaboration, and a shared commitment to preserving the ecosystems that sustain us all.”
Paralleling their investment in Quiet Sound, AltaGas is also taking on a leadership role in the Maritime Blue Sustainable Marine Fuels Collaborative to accelerate the availability, affordability, and deployment of sustainable maritime fuels, low and zero emission vessels, and related technologies in the Pacific Northwest through a lens of equitable prosperity towards net zero emissions by 2050.
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