Entangled Whale Response of Orange County

Our mission is to coordinate and execute rapid responses to entangled whales in Orange County by providing experienced trainings to expand the network of responders and conducting public education initiatives to inspire marine conservation.

The three founding members of EWROC are NOAA-trained large whale entanglement responders, each with five years or more experience. We have responded to multiple entangled whales and operated in various positions during these events. We have participated in numerous on-water training events and networked with dozens of other West Coast Large Whale Entanglement Response Network responders. During these trainings and responses, we have worked closely with NOAA’s West Coast Large Whale Entanglement Coordinator. Our team members are among the highest-trained and most active non-NOAA response personnel in Orange County. Additionally, all EWROC team members are volunteers.

The Entangled Whale Response of Orange Country (EWROC) was established to support NOAA’s efforts to disentangle whales off the coast of Southern California. Our team ensures continuous training, equipment maintenance and immediate response readiness. Collaborating with NOAA, EWROC aims to establish a trained personnel network capable of rapid response by conducting quarterly training sessions for the local whale community. Coordination efforts are managed via the Slack communication platform. Public awareness is enhanced through a comprehensive website, educational events and branded marketing materials. Additionally, EWROC is developing a fleet of support vessels and a drone team to aid in observation, reporting and logistical support for disentanglement efforts. The establishment of EWROC provides an experienced team of responders in Orange County solely dedicated to whale disentanglement efforts.

Entangled whales in commercial fishing gear can suffer from injuries, infection and restrictions that impair their ability to feed or swim. The drag from this entanglement gear can cause whales to expend more energy to swim, make it harder for them to feed and can result in starvation and drowning.

Orange County, CA, is the specific response area, and mutual aid support will be provided to the San Diego and Los Angeles operational teams when requested.

Your generous donation plays a crucial role in freeing whales from life-threatening entanglements. Thanks to your support, these magnificent creatures have a better chance at survival, contributing to the health of our oceans. We deeply appreciate your dedication to protecting marine life!

Thank you for your generous donation towards our whale disentanglement efforts. Your support is a vital lifeline for these ocean giants, helping us safeguard their welfare and preserve our oceans. We are grateful for your commitment to our cause!