Environmental & Wildlife Stewardship

1. Federal Protection of Cook Inlet Beluga Whales

Cook Inlet Beluga Whales are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) and listed as Endangered under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). It is illegal to harass, approach, or disrupt these marine mammals.

• Maintain Distance: If you spot Beluga whales swimming in Turnagain Arm, keep a minimum of 100 yards distance. Do not paddle toward, circle, or try to interact with them.
• Give Way: Beluga whales feed on salmon runs following the tide. If whales are progressing up the channel, exit the water immediately or paddle to shallow shorelines to give them unobstructed passage.
• Report Violations: Harassment of marine mammals carries steep federal fines. Report whale harassment or injured marine life to NOAA Fisheries.

2. Respecting Coastal Birds and Shorelines

The salt marshes and coastal flats of Turnagain Arm serve as vital nesting grounds for migratory shorebirds and waterfowl. Avoid walking on fragile marsh vegetation, stay on established paths, and keep pets on leash to prevent disturbance to nesting birds.

3. Clean Water and Waste Management

Surfers and visitors must maintain a zero-tolerance policy for pollution. Dispose of all trash, plastic wrappers, old surf wax, and tape in designated highway pullout trash containers or pack it out. Chemical pollutants, fuel leaks, or garbage degrade the water quality and harm the fish populations that sustain Cook Inlet's eagles, whales, and bears.