New Whale Alert App; Marine Flare Collection Events

Thar She Blows: Whale Alert App

Racers, cruisers, fishermen and other boaters, and whale watchers can download a free Whale Alert app. The easy-to-use app uses NOAA charts. It allows you to instantly report whale sightings and navigate heavily trafficked whale-alert areas. The data from reported sightings helps save whales by alerting rescue teams to injured or entangled whale locations and reducing ship strikes. We would add that it can help keep small craft safe from unintentional encounters in which the vessel can sometimes be the loser. See whalealert.org.

Flare Collection Events in Southern California

Flare Collection in Dana Point

In an unrelated press release from the same organization, California’s Boating Clean and Green program, we’re advised of a free marine flare collection event in Dana Point.

• When: Saturday, August 27, 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Where: Dana Point Harbor, 34555 Casitas Place, Dana Point
• Details: Bring unwanted or expired marine flares and smoke signals. When you arrive, staff will retrieve items directly from your vehicle’s trunk. Orange County Waste & Recycling will also welcome walk-up disposal near the restrooms by the marina. OC Health Care Agency will be onsite promoting their free bilge pad exchange program. Participants will receive free boater kits and flare discount coupons courtesy of California State Parks and California Coastal Commission.
• Accepted: Handheld flares, aerial flares and smoke signals.
• Not accepted: Electronic flares, military flares, any other hazardous waste such as paint, oil, e-waste or batteries.

Los Angeles County Flare Collection

The Port of Los Angeles also invites boaters to safely dispose of unused or used marine flares.

• When: Saturday, September 10, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Where: Newmarks Yacht Centre, 761 Peninsula Road, Wilmington
• This is a drive-through event. Place marine flares in your trunk.
• Eligibility: Proof of residence, business or boat berth must be in Los Angeles County.
• Accepted: Handheld flares, aerial flares and smoke signals.
• Not accepted: Electronic flares or electronics, military-type flares, any other hazardous waste such as paint, batteries and oil.
• Perks: E-flare and West Marine coupons will be available while supplies last. Free California Boater Kit vouchers are available to all.
• Preregistration is required for the L.A. event. Register here.