It’s June 1, which means the start of Orca Action Month in Oregon and across the PNW! 🌊 Many people don’t even realize that orcas live in Oregon waters. But they do, and they’re important! The video in this reel by Meghan Hurd shows a pod of four transient killer whales, including a newborn calf, swimming out of Oregon’s Yaquina River on May 10, 2025.  Started by longtime advocates at Orca Network, Orca Action Month is a movement that unites researchers, communities, and orca lovers to raise awareness and inspire real action for killer whales. 💪 This year’s theme, Threads of Life: Connecting Orcas, People, and the Future We Share, is all about Southern Resident Killer Whales, specifically. Southern Residents travel waters from central California to southeast Alaska (though the pods in Washington’s Puget Sound are most well-known) and rely on healthy salmon runs to survive. 🐟 But their population continues to struggle. As of 2024, just 73 individuals remain across J, K, and L pods. Throughout June, we will be sharing virtual and in-person events coordinated by @orcamonth, educational tools, and actions you can take to help. From protecting salmon habitat to reducing marine noise, every thread we pull strengthens the web of life we all depend on. 💪 Let’s protect orcas. Let’s protect the future. Follow along and learn more at www.orcamonth.org (http://www.orcamonth.org/). 📸: Meghan Hurd @Deepblueeyes26 #OrcaMonth #OrcaActionMonth #OrcaActionMonth2025 #ThreatsofLife #orcas #southernresidentorcas #srkws #pnworcas #pacificnorthwest #killerwhale #savesouthernresidents #blackfish #savethesalmon #breachthedams (fb)

We can’t wait for @bloomnewport this weekend! Will we sea 🌊 you there?  When: Saturday, May 31st, 3-7pm Where: Newport Performing Arts Center, 777 W Olive St, Newport Cost: FREE! The Bloom 🌸 festival brings together the heart of Newport, highlighting local businesses, makers, and artisans, offering opportunities for the community to explore and support the creativity, talent, and entrepreneurship right in our own backyard. It also provides a platform for local non-profits and conservation organizations to engage with the public, offering opportunities for volunteers, workshops, and interactive activities like a human library, film screenings, and even a silent disco! 🪩 🕺 Each year, as the festival grows, so does its  vision to celebrate diversity, foster connection, and build a stronger sense of community. ❤️ This event is accessible, sustainable, and welcoming to all (including your dog friends). Shop, dance, drink, eat, or simply enjoy the company of others at this family-friendly, inclusive event. More info at bloomnewport.org. #newportoregon #oregoncoast (fb)