A batholiths study that was to have used marine seismic testing in British Columbia’s Douglas Channel to explore how continents are formed has been called off because of concerns about the potential impact on whales.

The project had been opposed by several organizations including the Living Oceans Society, Raincoast Conservation Society, David Suzuki Foundation and Sierra Legal. The organizations complained about the potential impact on wildlife particularly those recently listed under the Species At Risk Act, including orcas, fin whales and humpback whales. They also disputed criticism that it could have opened the door to offshore oil and gas exploration.

Jay Ritchlin of the David Suzuki Foundation said :

“Seismic testing, whether for academic study or to locate oil and gas, presents unacceptable risks to important parts of B.C.’s environment and economy.”

The application for the U.S. permit for seismic testing is being allowed to continue. Source

Related blog posts: Watching Whales Summary, Seismic testing off coast of B.C.