Photo: File photo

New rules protecting B.C.’s southern resident killer whales come into effect next month.

Starting July 11, all vessels must stay at least 200 metres away from orcas under the new federal regulations.

The rules are part of a $170-million federal effort to protect marine life, which includes cuts to the Chinook salmon fishery, closing some orca feeding grounds to fishing, and increased monitoring of underwater noise.

Most whale watching operations have already implemented the 200-metre limit, which is currently half that.

There southern resident killer whale population in the Salish Sea is estimated at just 78 animals.

Evidence has shown noise from boats disturbs their ability to use sound to find food. 

– with files from CTV Vancouver