2026 Vessel Speed Reduction Season Kicked off on Earth Day

Industry Leadership Celebrated by Blue Whales and Blue Skies Program

Earth Day marked several important milestones for California’s coast, benefiting both coastal counties and marine life. On April 22, Blue Whales and Blue Skies (BWBS) launched the 2026 voluntary Vessel Speed Reduction (VSR) Season, now along the entire California coast as set forth in California Assembly Bill 14, authored by Assemblymember Gregg Hart and signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom last year.

The season kickoff also featured an in-person gathering near the Port of Oakland for the annual BWBS Awards Ceremony. Industry, public agencies, and nonprofit leaders gathered to