b'MEMBERNEWSITS NO FLUKE: Washington State Ferries Implements Whale Report Alert SystemWashington State Ferries hasinterface allows watch standers at initiated use of a whale alert app andWSFs operations centers to monitor web-based system this week that willthe location of whale sightings relative provide ferry captains more accurateto fleet vessel positions and relay and updated location informationwhale presence information to captains for southern resident orcas and otheras required.whales throughout Puget Sound.Because we operate our 22 ferries Access to Ocean Wises Whale Reporton Puget Sound and manage 20 Alert System (WRAS) is only grantedterminals on its shores, we have an to the commercial maritime operatorsobligation to ensure WSF is doing ev-such as ferries, ships and tugs. It is noterything we can to protect our environ-available for public use or for whalement, including marine life, said WSF watch operators.The fluke of gray whale disappears into the Puget Sound. Assistant Secretary Amy Scarton. The WRAS relies on real-timeWRASwasdevelopedby sightings, reported by members of theso ferry captains can make decisions toOcean Wise with funding from the public via Ocean Wises WhaleReportchange course or reduce speed to avoidGovernment of Canada, the Port smartphone application, to informdisturbing or colliding with marineof Prince Rupert, and the Port of commercial mariners of whalemammals. Vancouvers Enhancing Cetacean presence.The system is expected toEach alert also supplies otherHabitat and Observation (ECHO) provide ferry captains and other com- pertinent details such as the speciesProgram,. WSF has been a member mercial mariners with better infor- observed, the direction of whale travel,of the ECHO programs Advisory mation about large marine mammalthe time of the report and the numberWorking Group since 2015 and helped locations in the vicinity of their vesselsof whales in the group.This desktopin beta testing of WRAS. nLet MCM manage your insurance ZF Propulsion System Technology.so you can focus on your voyage For the dependable, on-time service you provide.ZFs line of propulsion technologyfrom transmissions and MCM is a leading independentthrusters, to propellers and controlsprovides the optimal insurance brokerage based in thesolution for passenger ferry applications worldwide. We offer the control, reliability and performance youre looking for, Pacific Northwest. Our marineresulting in a turnkey propulsion system designed to meet your practice group has more than needs. ZF is ready to help keep you on-schedule.100 years of combined experiencezfmarinepropulsion.complacing insurance and managing the marine industrys unique risks.Whether were working with vessel operators, builders, repair facilities or suppliers, we create specialized solutions that meet each clients needs. Contact Damon L. Nasman at (206) 262-6375 oremail damon.nasman@mcmnw.comEMpLoyEE BEnEfits | ExECutivE BEnEfits | REtiREMEnt pLans insuRanCE advisoRy | pRopERty & CasuaLtywww.mcmnw.com40OCTOBER 2019FOGHORN'