The Center for Whale Research expressed concern for the health of both J61 and her mother. Jay Inslee had already signed an executive order earlier that year establishing the Southern Resident Killer Whale Task Force. The J-pod are one of three pods of killer whales known as the “Southern Resident” orcas. Contaminants in the water are a large concern for the killer whale population. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration noted that there are "relatively high contaminant levels" among the female Southern Resident whales and their offspring.

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Persons: Tahlequah, tugging, Jay Inslee, ”, orcas Organizations: for Whale Research, Washington Gov, Southern, Force, Orca, NBC News, Georgia Strait Alliance, Atmospheric Administration, NOAA Locations: Washington, Vancouver Island, Canada, Southern