DREAM
– years of Dolphin Research Education & Management
now protect Port Stephen’s Dolphins
by Carmen Welss
Previous
article |
|
|
DREAM
– years of Dolphin Research Education & Management
now protect Port Stephen’s Dolphins |
|
Bottlenose dolphins are one of the most widely recognised species of marine animal. Their charismatic appearance and gregarious nature contribute to their public profile, and they are often regarded as a flagship species for the marine environment. In Port Stephens the bottlenose dolphin population, which is currently estimated at over 150 individuals, is the basis of a rapidly expanding dolphin watch industry. Both recreational and commercial boating activities are increasing, and are likely to have significant effects on the local dolphin population. DREAM made of compassion and expertise The DREAM project is recognition of the need to gather information, to better understand the dolphin's movements, needs, habitat and food requirements. Ultimately it will lead to the development of a management plan, which has considerable local support and provides a scientific base to better protect the dolphins. The story of the DREAM project began in 1998 when a small group, including Dolphin Watch Operators Frank Future and Yves Papin, brought out the issue of the preservation of the port while keeping the private enterprises profitable. They initiated the D.R.E.A.M. Fund (Dolphin Research Education And Management) through which commercial dolphin watch operators finance research into the Port Stephens dolphins. Results from many years of scientific research, especially into the interaction between boats and the animals will result in a management plan for the dolphin population. The Foundation for National Parks & Wildlife administers the project funds and assists with the marketing and promotion of the DREAM fund, raises additional funds and secures sponsorships. The results of the fieldwork will now form the basis of a dolphin management plan in Port Stephens. Getting to know the dolphins Scientists conduct ongoing studies into the dolphin population in Port Stephens, collecting data on habitat use, feeding patterns, pod size, breeding criteria, sleep and recreational requirements. They also monitor the impact of boats, jet skis, fishing and environmental impacts of pollution, industry and habitat changes. Every year rangers and volunteers get behind the dolphin census and identify and register each individual dolphin. This data is recorded in a dolphin ID chart with photographs of the fins, used to monitor population changes.
The Australian guidelines for cetacean watching are in place to protect the dolphins from harmful interactions with vessels. They are however recommendations and as such not legally binding. Theodolite tracking revealed some severe breaches of the guidelines. Just under 25% of interactions involved approaches to groups containing calves and newborns, vessels were within 30m and 50m of dolphins, where a distance of at least 50 metres is recommended and there were observations of vessel handling techniques in breach of the guidelines. These latest survey results found that stricter regulations for tour operators are necessary to protect the dolphins of Port Stephens. The University has recommended adoption of the Australian guidelines as State regulations, with site-specific conditions to account for intensity of industries. Further education for tour operators, recreational vessel users and tourists is also recommended which may improve levels of awareness and compliance. Currently the Port Stephens Dolphin Watching Association have introduced a code of conduct amongst its members to help protect the welfare of the Port Stephens dolphins. This self-regulating code aims to minimise the impact on dolphins resulting from tourist operators’ activities. Educating the community DREAM funds have provided information and awareness raising through newsletters and brochures, fact sheets, signage and community service announcements. DREAM education targets all publics from the local community, schoolchildren, businesses, professional and recreational fishers, recreational water craft users through to Australian and international visitors to Port Stephens.
|
