Marine Mammals and Alternatives
to Whaling
SEI (pronounced
say) is named after the Sei Whale, which once indicated a healthy
marine ecosystem. It is not surprising then, that we should find
ourselves involved becoming more engaged in the conservation
of marine mammals and their role in the marine ecosystem.
Below we include information on our role in the Makah whale hunt.
APRIL 2000 update
on current activities
California Gray Whales
Makah Whale Hunt:Alternatives
to Whaling
Overview of SEI's role and achievements Last November, we were asked to engage and seek alternatives solutions to this crisis. In January we engaged with the Tribal Council and subsequently with members of the community, and the Planning Commission. We worked to develop short and long term alternatives that would provide for the spiritual, cultural, economic and ecological well being of the Tribe.
At the suggestion and recommendation of members of the Makah Community we found support to turn the current hunt into a research and training effort on Gray Whales. This would have provided a year long income and opportunities for the whaling team and other members of the community. We further worked with the community to identify and prioritize sustainable options that would take the place of the whale. This included cultural and ecological tourism with research and educational opportunities; elder care ( currently all elder or sick individuals must go either to Port Angeles--2 hours away or to Seattle a further 5 hours away), and aqua- sport facilities for the youth.
At the time of the hunt, members of the community were actively pursuing this option for alternatives. We hope that they will continue to find real and long term solutions that benefit all, the whale and humans.We deeply regret the events of May 17th 1999, when a three year old female California Gray Whale was unnecessarily killed. SEI remains committed to finding alternative and sustainable solultions that allow all nations (whale and humans) to live in harmony.
Essay and thoughts on the killing of the California Gray Whale
Marine Mammal Links
Facts and History of Events: Answers to questions we're asked about:How did this killing happen in the US
The Makah Tribe SEI: Makah hunt factsand its whaling history
Images. We've been asked for images of the immediate aftermath. Here are some
Our sincere thanks to SEI own funds and International Fund for Animal Welfare(IFAW) for their support in trying to find a lasting solution
comments: sei@sei.org