Marine Mammal Mitigation during seismic surveys close to Western Gray Whale feeding grounds

We were commissioned to support the implementation of an enhanced Marine Mammal Mitigation Programme for seismic surveys close to one of the Western Gray Whale’s established feeding grounds. The project, conducted in collaboration the Western Gray Whale Advisory Panel and clients, aimed to minimise acoustic disturbances to the critically endangered Western Gray Whale.

Our Role

• Deployed a team of experienced Marine Mammal Observers aboard the seismic survey vessel to oversee mitigation efforts. 
• Conducted visual and acoustic monitoring to detect marine mammals and enforce exclusion zones. 
• Managed real-time data collection and analysis to assess whale behaviour and noise exposure. 
• Implemented remote sensing technologies, including infrared and high-definition video, to support 24-hour monitoring. Provided expert review and recommendations for improving mitigation measures, including better survey planning, passive acoustic monitoring, and communication protocols. 

Key Achievements

• Successfully minimised disturbance to marine mammals during seismic operations. 

• Provided data-driven insights to refine mitigation measures for future projects. 

• Strengthened industry best practices by integrating international guidelines (IUCN, JNCC). 

• Supported collaborative environmental stewardship between clients, regulators, and conservation groups. 

This project demonstrates our commitment to marine environmental protection and our expertise in delivering effective marine mammal mitigation strategies for offshore energy developments.