November 26, 2024 — The following was released by NOAA Fisheries:
Some marine mammal populations have rebounded in recent decades. But this conservation success story can also lead to conflicts with fisheries, harbors, and property owners. This includes dolphins, whales, seals, and sea lions eating fish from hooks and nets and damaging fishing gear and harbor infrastructure, which leads to economic losses.
To learn more about how deterrent methods are being used, the NOAA Marine Fisheries Advisory Committee has released an anonymous survey on marine mammal deterrents. The goal of this survey is to identify which marine mammal deterrents are considered the most effective by users to protect fishing gear, fishing catches, vessels, docks, aquaculture facilities, and other property. Data and information from the survey will inform recommendations on how NOAA Fisheries (or partners) could best invest future resources to further research marine mammal deterrents.
“The information gathered through this survey will help us understand the nature of marine mammal interactions and use of deterrents in various situations,” said Kristy Long, from the NOAA Fisheries Office of Protected Resources.
The Marine Mammal Protection Act and the Endangered Species Act have fostered species recovery since their passage in the early 1970s. The MMPA prohibits the “take” of marine mammals—including harassment, hunting, capturing, collecting, or killing—in U.S. waters and by U.S. citizens on the high seas. One exception allows specified users to deter marine mammals from damaging fishing gear and catch as well as public and private property. These deterrents cannot result in mortality or serious injury to marine mammals.
The survey is anonymous and voluntary so that respondents provide honest input on all current deterrents used to deter marine mammals.
“This survey is an opportunity for fishermen and harbor and dock owners to have their voices heard” says Kim Raum-Suryan, from NOAA Fisheries Protected Resources Division, Alaska Region. “We hope those affected by marine mammal conflicts will take advantage of this survey to provide information that will work toward reducing these interactions so fishermen can retain their gear and catch and marine mammals will remain safe.”