The Bush Point Hydrophone Project supported by Whidbey Telecom
Imagine being able to tune in to the mysterious world beneath the waves without leaving your home! The Orca Network makes this possible thanks to their hosted Bush Point hydrophone. This hydrophone system allows you to tune in from anywhere with an internet connection! This unique opportunity allows you to hear Southern Resident killer whales as they pass through Admiralty Inlet, along with the occasional hum of ships traveling to and from Seattle and Tacoma ports.
The Story begins
The Bush Point hydrophone began its acoustic journey in 2018. Marine sound engineers Lon Brocklehurst and Ken Balcomb collaborated to deploy a specialized hydrophone system, allowing us to listen in on the marine life and sounds of Admiralty Inlet. The original setup was 200 meters offshore at a depth of 16.5 meters, but challenges led to a revised placement, positioning hydrophones at the base of pilings. While this shallow depth occasionally results in the bonus sounds of seabirds during low tides, it still captures the diverse underwater world that exists just off Whidbey Island’s shores.
Listeners worldwide can connect to these live audio streams through the project’s website. Whidbey Telecom proudly supports this project, providing financial backing and a robust Fiber Network connection to make the sounds of our beautiful area accessible to all.
Making waves of change
In 2023, thanks to a grant from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Department of Ecology’s Equipment Grant program, the hydrophone received a significant upgrade, improving its ability to detect Southern Resident killer whales and other marine mammals during critical events like oil spills. During this update, Whidbey Telecom provided Technical Support to Scott Veirs the lead Bioacoustic Coordinator and Trevor Snow the Langley Whale Center’s Manager and Technician.
Resonating into tomorrow
As we look to the future, plans are in motion for deeper deployment following repairs to the Bush Point Wharf, which may allow for clearer, more immersive sounds from the depths of Admiralty Inlet. For now, the hydrophone remains a virtual gateway into the life of the Salish Sea, accessible anytime through the project’s website.
Where to listen to whales
Thanks to the Orca Network hydrophone system and the continued support of Whidbey Telecom, these immersive marine sounds are just a click away. Next time you’re feeling curious, or just wish to listen to the soothing sounds of the sea.
Visit live.orcasound.net to listen in.
