whale sense northeast region program framework for 2014e. report problems and live right whale...
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Whale SENSE Northeast Region Program Framework for 2014
SENSE Program Coordinators:
Allison Rosner, NOAA Fisheries Northeast Regional Office, Protected Species Division. Phone: 978-
282-8462. Email: [email protected]
Regina Asmutis-Silvia, Whale and Dolphin Conservation. Phone: 508-746-2522. Email:
Nathalie Ward, Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary. Phone: 781-545-8026. Email:
Whale SENSE Program Partners:
NOAA Fisheries Northeast Regional Office, NOAA Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, and
Whale and Dolphin Conservation.
I. Program Overview
A. The mission of Whale SENSE is to promote responsible stewardship of large whales in the northeast
region and recognize commercial whale watching companies that set positive standards for responsible
practices and education.
B. This program is voluntary and offered to participating companies at no charge.
C. Participating companies will be included on the list of Whale SENSE program participants. Participants
may utilize the Whale SENSE logo in their advertisements once they have met the program
requirements as specified by the program partners.
D. The program partners to this agreement are the NOAA Fisheries Northeast Regional Office, NOAA
Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary (SBNMS), and the Whale and Dolphin Conservation
(WDC). Although they are not program partners, it is important to note that the program was developed
in collaboration with northeast region whale watching companies. Whale watching companies continue
to play a significant role in the development and advancement of the Whale SENSE program.
E. The purpose of this program is to:
Empower whale watching industry leadership to serve as conservation stewards in the preservation
of large whale species;
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Minimize the potential harassment of large whales that may result from commercial viewing
activities;
Reduce expectations of members of the public arising from wanting to closely interact with large
whales in a manner that may cause harassment (e.g., pressuring commercial vessels to intentionally
approach animals in a manner that does not adhere to NOAA’s Northeast Regional Whale Watching
Guidelines);
Educate potential whale watchers on whale protection and conservation measures;
Reduce the potential causes of large whale harassment in the northeast that may result from
inexperienced or aggressive operators maneuvering vessels around whales, lack of education about
guidelines/regulations and laws applicable to responsible whale watching, lack of awareness about
large whale behavior and signs of disturbance;
Increase reliable and consistent educational messaging to whale watch passengers;
Ensure participating whale watching companies emphasize a conservative, respectful and educated
approach to whale watching; and
Promote the Whale SENSE program’s commitment to responsible whale watching practices, whale
conservation and ocean stewardship.
Whale SENSE is an education and public awareness program, not a law enforcement program. Any
suspected violations of the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) or other laws will continue to be
dealt with through the appropriate law enforcement agency.
II. Program Objectives
A. The goal of the program partners is to develop a voluntary education and recognition program for
commercial operators to increase their awareness and knowledge, and ultimately that of their customers,
about responsible marine mammal viewing practices, whale behavior and biology/ecology, the laws and
guidelines protecting whales, and stewardship of the marine environment. Objectives in support of this
goal are as follows:
1) Program partners will develop criteria that will assist participants in achieving voluntary compliance
with legal requirements, policies, and guidelines, as well as best practices aimed at preventing
harassment of large whales.
2) Program partners will develop outreach and education materials to ensure participants’ awareness of
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the issues surrounding whale conservation and how to promote large whale conservation by
preventing harassment.
3) Program criteria will promote marine stewardship and ocean literacy.
4) Program partners will determine the program’s overall effectiveness in the northeast region by
developing an evaluation component to measure adherence to the program criteria.
5) Program partners will establish a platform for public recognition of operators complying with the
program criteria.
III. Eligibility for Program Recognition
A. Businesses conducting dedicated commercial whale watching tours from the northeast region (ME to
VA) will be eligible for Whale SENSE participation. This includes large passenger whale watching
vessels (passenger capacity greater than twelve) and a piloted program for smaller, private, whale
watching vessels (passenger capacity twelve or less).
IV. Criteria for Whale SENSE Participation1 2
A. Conduct educational briefing onboard vessel.
1) Prior to viewing large whales, naturalists/interpreters/narrators from participating companies will
conduct an educational onboard briefing about the Whale SENSE program. Participants will be
provided with a “script” to guide the onboard briefing but may paraphrase information as they see
fit. The briefing should include:
a) What the program is;
b) Why it is important;
c) The code of conduct that participants agree to follow;
d) Who the program partners are; and
e) Where to obtain additional educational information.
f) When and where the vessel is traveling to and from -- If the vessel enters the boundaries of
1 Participation in the Whale SENSE Program does not create any right to renewal and does not represent a waiver by NOAA to
seek penalties that are provided by law if law violations are discovered. Nor does it imply that the vessel complies with the
United States Coast Guard safety inspection or other applicable safety and insurance requirements. Passengers are encouraged
to ask businesses if they maintain current inspection, license, and insurance documentation. 2 For Charter businesses that take customers to view whales but also conduct other types of charters, such as fishing trips and
ferry services: Whale SENSE participants agree to follow the program criteria if they encounter whales, even if they are running
another type of charter when the encounter occurs.
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Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, the naturalist should brief passengers on the
Sanctuary’s ecological and historical significance (see Stellwagen Bank National Marine
Sanctuary Fact Sheets provided on the Naturalist Binder cd and the Online Naturalist Resource
Center available through the Whale SENSE website).
2) Naturalists will also identify and explain applicable marine mammal protection laws and the purpose
and importance of viewing guidelines to passengers onboard each trip.
B. Distribute outreach materials.
1) Participating companies will make outreach materials promoting the Whale SENSE program
objectives available to passengers, or direct passengers to sources where materials are available.
Program partners will supply outreach materials at no charge.
C. Naturalist List Serv.
1) Naturalists will register for the Naturalist List Serv (maintained by WDC). This email list serves as
a way to facilitate communications among naturalists, promote professional development
opportunities, and update naturalists of entangled whale sightings, right whale advisories, and field
research activities.
D. Comply with applicable laws.
1) Participating companies will comply with all applicable resource protection laws and regulations
(e.g. Marine Mammal Protection Act, Endangered Species Act, Right Whale Approach Regulations,
Right Whale Ship Strike Reduction Speed Restrictions).
E. Report problems and live right whale sightings to the appropriate networks.
1) Participants agree to report live right whale sightings, ship struck, stranded, injured, dead, or
entangled marine mammals to the NOAA’s Northeast Marine Animal Reporting Hotline: 1-866-755-
NOAA (6622), local stranding or disentanglement network partner, or USCG via CH-16. When
possible, stand-by and keep the whale in sight or arrange for another vessel to maintain sight of the
whale.
2) Participants are encouraged to report Marine Mammal Protection Act and/or Endangered Species Act
violations3 to NOAA’s Office of Law Enforcement’s hotline: 1-800-853-1964
3) Participants will keep important contact information readily available in the wheelhouse.
F. Follow NOAA’s policies, guidelines, and recommendations to prevent harassment.
3 Whale SENSE is an education and public awareness program, not a law enforcement program. Any suspected violations of the
Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) or other laws will continue to be dealt with through the appropriate law enforcement
agency and will not be dealt with through the SENSE program.
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1) Follow NOAA’s Fisheries’ policy statement on marine mammal harassment: “Interacting with wild
marine mammals should not be attempted, and viewing marine mammals must be conducted in a
manner that does not harass the animals. NOAA’s Fisheries cannot support, condone, approve or
authorize activities that involve closely approaching, interacting or attempting to interact with
whales, dolphins, porpoises, seals or sea lions in the wild. This includes attempting to swim with,
pet, touch, or elicit a reaction from the animals.”
2) Utilize best practices and follow NOAA Fisheries Northeast Regional Marine Mammal Viewing
Guidelines to the best of vessel’s operational ability (available online at
www.nero.noaa.gov/whalewatch).
3) Post a graphic, placard, poster, or NOAA’s Northeast Whale Watching Guideline brochure
describing whale watching guidelines and their overall purpose in an area accessible for public
viewing. Program partners will supply these materials upon request at no cost.
G. Exceed standards specified by law, policies, and guidelines to promote stewardship.
1) Participants will create and/or participate in at least one project exemplifying marine stewardship.
a) Projects are unique to each company but must be linked to NOAA’s Ocean Literacy Principles
(Appendix 5), accompanied by a Whale SENSE-approved take home message for passengers,
and be shared with passengers onboard each trip.
b) The stewardship project will be identified in writing (prior to enrollment) by the participating
company to the Whale SENSE Coordinators. Whale SENSE Coordinators will assist participant
in identifying, designing, and crafting messaging for stewardship project if requested.
c) Examples of projects may include (but are not limited to):
Participation in marine debris and beach clean-ups;
Recycling programs;
Sponsorship of internship programs;
Providing a consistent and documented research platform for marine mammal researchers
from accredited academic institutions, federal or state agencies, or non-profit organizations;
Hosting educational talks at public venues, such as libraries and schools; or
Creating a new stewardship project (prior approval required from Whale SENSE
Coordinators)
2) Whale SENSE objectives should not be compromised if the company also participates in other
business activities such as ferry or fishing services. Companies agree to uphold a standard of
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responsible practices and code of conduct if marine mammals are viewed during these additional
activities. Participants agree to adhere to responsible marine mammal protection practices
applicable to the other businesses (for example: NOAA’s Northeast Marine Mammal and Sea Turtle
Protection Guidelines for Recreational Boaters and Fishermen).
G. Participate in SENSE training.
1) Participating operators, captains, and naturalists/interpreter/narrators must participate in training
provided by the program partners to attain an accurate knowledge standard on laws protecting large
whales, large whale viewing etiquette, natural versus disturbed behaviors, research and conservation
messaging, anthropogenic interaction, and reporting.
2) Participating owners/managers must ensure all naturalists, operators, and captains will be trained
according to program standards. The SENSE Coordinators will arrange training sessions and
provide necessary materials to participants to ensure that all company operators, captains, and
naturalists/interpreter/narrators will be trained according to the program standards.
H. Engage in responsible advertising4 5 6.
1) Participants agree to engage in advertising that promotes responsible wildlife viewing and follow
NOAA Fisheries “Recommendations for Advertising Wild Marine Mammal Viewing”(Appendix 6):
a) Do not depict people touching, pursuing, chasing, attempting to swim with, or closely
interacting with wild marine mammals or any activities that would violate the MMPA or ESA or
other regulatory measures.
b) Do not show vessels underway within close approach zones (e.g. vessels with wakes within 300-
100 feet of whales) and no vessel wake should be visible within 0.5 miles of a known location of
a whale.
c) Include a prepared statement or photo caption about responsible large whale viewing in
advertisements with close approach pictures.
4 “Advertising” includes any print or electronic advertisements that mention the business’s name or those linked to the business,
search engine listings, and any posted photos. This also includes, but is not limited to, pitch sheets, print, web, visual, and radio.
Flexibility will be given to new companies that enrolled after their seasonal brochures are printed. In these cases, meeting these
criteria will only be applied to electronic sources (i.e. websites, social media sites, etc.).
5 The advertising guidelines are intended to help participants advertise responsible marine mammal viewing by avoiding
advertisements that raise the public’s expectation to engage in inappropriate, close human interactions with marine mammals.
6 Participants will be encouraged to familiarize themselves with the Federal Trade Commission’s rules for “truth-in-advertising”
to ensure advertisements are truthful and non-deceptive about marine mammal viewing experiences. Participation in this
program does not ensure adherence to the Federal Trade Commission’s advertising policies.
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d) Right whales will not be shown in images with vessels within 500 yards.
e) If right whale images (i.e. whale with no boat) are used, a photo caption referencing the 500 yard
approach restriction must be included.
I. Promote the Whale SENSE Program.
1) Participants will help promote the Whale SENSE program by posting SENSE annual placards
onboard each vessel, ticket booth, and souvenir shop (to be provided by partners at no cost).
2) Participants will link their company website to the Whale SENSE website (www.whalesense.org).
J. Engage in the feedback process.
1) Participants agree to provide constructive feedback to program partners before, during, and after
each season.
2) Participants agree to participate in an annual end-of-season wrap-up call.
3) Participants agree to review program materials and provide suggestions, comments, and concerns to
program partners when applicable.
K. Participate in annual evaluation.
1) Participating companies agree to participate in annual evaluation processes described in section VI
of this Framework.
2) Program evaluation will assess Whale SENSE’s effectiveness and measure the program’s success in
meeting the program objectives.
V. Process for Program Participation
A. Initiating Participation:
1) Business owner or manager indicates to NOAA Fisheries’ Whale SENSE Coordinator the desire to
become a Whale SENSE participant. NOAA’s Whale SENSE Coordinator provides business
owner/manager with a checklist of Whale SENSE program components and criteria, as well as
materials to help the business prepare for an evaluation before Coordinator confirms company
participation and recognition.
2) Business owner or manager identifies the following information to SENSE coordinators:
a) Whale SENSE point of contact;
b) Best means of communication;
c) Start and end dates of the whale watching season;
d) Copies of printed advertisements and brochures;
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e) Stewardship project concept the company will pursue; and
f) A list of known personnel who will be on staff during the whale watching season.
3) After receiving this information, Whale SENSE coordinators will work with company management
to schedule an in-person Whale SENSE training session, prior to or no later than one month after the
start of the company’s whale watching season. Alternative training options will be provided for
additional staff that begin working later in the season. At the end of each training session, staff will
be asked to complete a training evaluation distributed by the Whale and Dolphin Conservation,
which will be used to evaluate the training effectiveness.
4) Whale SENSE Coordinators will review the participating company’s website and conduct a web
search to ensure all advertising information follows program criteria.
5) Following the training, Whale SENSE coordinators will work with company management to
schedule an “initial evaluation.”
a) Whale SENSE Coordinators will meet with the participating company’s Whale SENSE contact
at the business site on a mutually convenient date to review the evaluation checklist.
b) A Whale SENSE Coordinator will observe a complete whale watching tour to make sure
captain, operator, naturalists and other staff (when applicable) understand the program criteria
(see Appendix 3 for specific evaluation criteria).
c) A Whale SENSE Coordinator will compile all evaluation components.
d) Whale SENSE Coordinators will provide initial evaluation results to the participating company
within one week of the site visit and review of information.
e) Following successful completion of the initial evaluation and training, the company will become
an official Whale SENSE participant. The participant will then receive recognition materials (see
paragraph C below for more details) from the program partners and will be included, as feasible,
on all Whale SENSE materials and websites.
f) If the company does not meet all program criteria following the initial evaluation, the Whale
SENSE Coordinators provide a letter describing the manner in which the business is not
following the program criteria and how best to alter their practices to conform. Whale SENSE
Coordinators provide technical assistance whenever possible. After reviewing the evaluation and
making any suggested changes, the company management contacts a Whale SENSE Coordinator
to arrange for a re-evaluation. The re-evaluation will be scheduled no later than two weeks after
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the request is made7.
B. Renewing Participation:
1) Recognition materials, such as vessel decals that publicize participation in the program, display the
current year. Only a current-year decal indicates active participation in the Whale SENSE program.
Recognition for all Whale SENSE participants automatically expires at the end of each calendar
year.
2) Companies renewing their participation must contact Whale SENSE Coordinators by FEBRUARY
of each calendar year (alternative deadlines will be determined at the discretion of the Whale SENSE
Coordinators for companies with whale watching seasons outside of April-October). At this time the
company owner or manager must provide updated information to the Whale SENSE Coordinators
including:
a) Company Whale SENSE point of contact;
b) Best means of communication;
c) Start and end dates of the whale watching season;
d) Stewardship project the company will pursue;
e) Printed advertisements and brochures;
f) List of known applicable staff during the whale watching season that will be used by the
company to monitor training requirement compliance.
3) Companies agree to make sure all advertisements meet Whale SENSE advertising criteria at the time
of renewal request.
4) Companies agree to make arrangements with SENSE Coordinators to schedule annual staff training
sessions. These annual reviews for essential staff (lead naturalists and operators) must be completed
no later than one month after the start of the company’s whale watching season. Alternative
training options will be provided for additional staff that begins working later in the season. At the
end of each training session, staff will be asked to complete a training evaluation distributed by
Whale and Dolphin Conservation, which will be used to evaluate the training effectiveness. This
evaluation may be completed online via the Whale SENSE website. Paper copies of the evaluation
may be requested as well.
5) New decals will be distributed to participants only after the company completes the Pre-Season
Requirements Checklist (Appendix 2).
7 If the request is made within one month of the initial evaluation, only areas in which the criteria are not being followed will be
re-evaluated. If the request is made more than one month after the initial evaluation, a full evaluation will be conducted.
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6) Whale SENSE public awareness materials will be updated as appropriate to reflect the current list of
participants.
C. Whale SENSE Recognition:
7) Upon successful completion of training, the applicant will be included on the list of program
participants and receives all program materials and decals with the Whale SENSE logo to display on
its vessels, ticket booths, and/or advertisements.
VI. Program Evaluation
A. Purpose of Annual Evaluation:
1) Evaluation of participants annually is essential to gauge the program’s effectiveness and success.
This success relies on participants continuing to follow the program criteria after their initial
evaluation and after receiving recognition as a Whale SENSE participant. The annual evaluation will
typically take place between June & July (alternative deadlines will be determined at the discretion
of the Whale SENSE Coordinators for companies with whale watching seasons outside of April-
October).
a) The goal of annual evaluation is to ensure that the Whale SENSE criteria are followed and
encourage constructive dialogue, not to eliminate participants from the program. Therefore,
the focus of the annual evaluation process is to provide participants with constructive feedback
related to meeting the Whale SENSE criteria. While program participants are expected to adhere
to NOAA’s Northeast Whale Watching Guidelines to the best of their ability, partners
acknowledge that many of the guidelines are not observable by an evaluator on deck. Therefore,
program partners will work to limit evaluation criteria to only easily observable operational
guidelines.
b) Whale SENSE Coordinators ensure all Whale SENSE participating companies conducting
regular whale watching trips, regardless of how many vessels and captains are associated with
their business, are evaluated each year either using in-person observation, third party evaluation,
passenger comments, or a combination of these measures (depending on input from each
individual company and program funding availability).
B. In-person observation process for larger commercial whale watches (passenger capacity greater
than twelve):
1) In-person observations will be conducted randomly through unannounced visits.
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2) The evaluator will book, pay for, and attend a regularly scheduled departure. The evaluator will
evaluate the voyage for adherence to the Whale SENSE program criteria using a standard,
predetermined reporting form (see Appendix 3).
a) Government funds, grant funding or funds from a non-profit partner organization will cover the
cost of trips taken by Whale SENSE evaluators to evaluate program participants.
b) The evaluator will base the operator/captain evaluation on the first whale sighting, and then a
randomly selected additional whale sighting occurring later in the trip.
c) At the conclusion of the trip, the evaluator will review evaluation results, noting any areas of
concern. If an evaluator observes what he/she determines to be a federal violation he/she may
contact the appropriate agency to report the incident.
C. Mechanisms for evaluating smaller whale watches (passenger capacity less than or equal to
twelve):
1) Since tickets for private charter whale watches must be booked in advance, trips are dependent on
the number of tickets booked per trip, and ticket prices range from $100-200 dollars per ticket,
unannounced trip evaluations for private charters may be difficult to achieve and/or be cost
prohibitive for the program. Therefore, a combination of other mechanisms will be used as
evaluation tools for this group. Mechanisms may include, but are not limited to:
a) If program budget allows, announced trip with program evaluators for operators to demonstrate
their knowledge and skills of maneuvering responsibly around whales;
b) Random passenger surveys or comment cards (administered by WDC);
c) Online passenger reviews or videos from websites including but not limited to PlanetWhale,
YouTube, and TripAdvisor; and/or
d) Analysis of fully videoed trip by program evaluators.
D. Evaluation results (all companies):
1) The evaluator will provide the evaluation results to NOAA’s Whale SENSE Coordinator, who will
forward a copy to the participant. If the company has shown a discrepancy from the Whale SENSE
criteria, and this discrepancy is not related to a federal law violation (i.e. vessel strike), and the
evaluated operator disagrees with the evaluator’s findings, they may submit a written response to
NOAA’s Whale SENSE Coordinator. If the Whale SENSE Coordinators are unable to come to an
adequate resolution as to whether or not the potential discrepancy represents a program violation, the
Whale SENSE Coordinators will convene the Operation Evaluation Panel detailed below for a more
detailed review.
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E. Operation Evaluation Panel:
1) If the Whale SENSE Coordinators are unable to come to a resolution regarding a vessel’s behavior
suspected of representing a program violation (not a federal violation) and disputed by the operator,
the program partners will convene an independent evaluation panel consisting of third party
representative who has experience operating whale watching vessels, but who is not currently
employed by a northeast whale watching company.
2) The name of the company and operator will be redacted during the panel review to minimize bias
among parties not involved with conducting the onboard evaluation.
3) The panel will make a determination on whether or not the action represented the most reasonable
course of action given the specific circumstances of the situation (ex. weather may influence vessel
changes in behavior that may not coincide with program criteria, but may be necessary for safety
reasons).
F. Discrepancies from third-party and passenger feedback evaluation process:
1) If Whale SENSE Coordinators receive reports of program discrepancies from third-party evaluators
or passengers, Coordinators will follow the “Complaints Procedure” outlined in section VII of this
Framework.
G. If a program deviation is determined:
1) The participant will be notified within 48 hours of the deviation by email or phone.
2) The participant will have 14 days from the date of the notification to revise their practices.
3) Participant re-evaluation will occur after the 14-day timeframe mentioned above through an
unannounced spot check, second volunteer evaluation, meeting with Whale SENSE program
coordinator, or pre-arranged ride-along by the program coordinator, volunteer, or third party.
4) If the company fails to revise their practices after being given no more than three opportunities to
meet the Whale SENSE standards, the company must remove the SENSE logo from its vessel(s) and
advertisements, and the company name will be removed from the Whale SENSE website and future
seasonal program promotions.
H. Providing feedback:
1) Participants are welcome and encouraged to provide feedback on the evaluation process to the
SENSE Coordinators at all times.
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VII. Complaints Procedure8
The following procedure establishes a process to address complaints received from the public regarding
Whale SENSE participants not meeting the program criteria.
A. Telephone Complaints:
1) A record of the conversation will be made and the complainant asked to put their concerns in
writing.
2) The complainant will be advised that a copy will be provided to the participant against whom the
complaint was made.
3) No further action will be taken unless a written complaint is received by NOAA or WDC.
4) If a written complaint is received, the Complaints Procedure (detailed below in Whale SENSE
Framework Part VII (B)) will then be applied.
B. Complaints Procedure:
1) Written complaints will be date stamped and copied to NOAA’s Whale SENSE Coordinator.
2) The NOAA’s Whale SENSE Coordinator will assess whether the complaint is from a reliable source
and if the complaint relates to the program’s criteria. If the complaint does not relate to the program
criteria, no further action will be taken.
3) If the complaint does relate to the SENSE program criteria, NOAA’s Whale SENSE Coordinator
will forward a copy of the complaint to the participant involved, outlining the main points of the
complaint. The complainant’s personally identifiable information (i.e.name, address, email, etc.) will
be used for internal use only and will not be made public or available to the company in question.
4) In the copy of the complaint submitted to the participating company, the Whale SENSE Coordinator
will request a response from the participating company (i.e. was there a specific reason recorded in
the vessel’s logbook, or does the captain/naturalist recall the circumstances of the program
deviation). Responses should be returned to the Whale SENSE Coordinator, in writing, within 5
days of receiving the complaint copy, unless the Coordinator grants an extension.
5) Whale SENSE Coordinators will review the participant’s response, and consider whether or not the
points have been adequately addressed. If the Whale SENSE Coordinators determine the participant
has deviated from the program criteria, the participant will be given 2 weeks to address areas of
8 If any complaint is investigated by NOAA Office of Law Enforcement as a take under the Marine Mammal Protection Act,
Endangered Species Act or National Marine Sanctuary Act results in a judgment against the participant, the participant is
dropped from the Program. Future reinstatement will be at the discretion of the SENSE program partners.
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concern. The participant will then be then re-evaluated utilizing options outlined in section VI of this
Framework. The program coordinators will select the most appropriate evaluation method.
6) If a second written complaint is received by NOAA or WDC within one year, the participant will
undergo additional evaluation in accordance with the procedures described in Whale SENSE
Framework Part VI.
7) If three valid complaints are received and upheld within one year, the participant will be ineligible to
participate in the Whale SENSE program for one year. The participant will be removed from Whale
SENSE program materials, and will not receive annual renewal decals. The company agrees to
return current year decals and remove references to the Whale SENSE program from their websites
and advertisements.
8) The participant may request re-evaluation and renewed participation after one full year of non-
participation.
VIII. Program Framework Review
A. Annual Review:
1) An annual review of the Whale SENSE participation criteria and program framework will ensure the
program is functioning as intended and provides the opportunity to address issues that were not
foreseen when the criteria were initially developed.
IX. Educational Component
A. Education/Outreach Materials:
1) Well-crafted outreach and educational materials provided to the general public may encourage
support of whale stewardship in the Northeast region. As feasible, Whale SENSE partners will
develop outreach and education materials to meet SENSE participants’ stated outreach needs.
B. Continuing Education:
1) Whale SENSE partners will present program framework updates during the annual and refresher
trainings.
2) Whale SENSE partners may conduct additional educational workshops, upon request by the program
participants, on relevant topics of interest such as local research.
3) Whale SENSE partners will maintain a Naturalist List Serv to promote educational events,
professional development opportunities, marine related research updates, and to foster
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communication amongst Atlantic whale watching naturalists.
4) Whale SENSE partners will maintain and update an online Naturalist Resource Center
(www.whalesense.org/naturalist-resource-center/).
X. Whale SENSE Program Public Awareness
A. All program partners and participants will engage in activities intended to raise public awareness
of this program and the importance of responsibly viewing large whales.
B. These activities may include (but are not limited to):
1) Whale SENSE program partners will post information on their websites about the Whale SENSE
program, including a list of current participants.
2) Whale SENSE program partners will conduct outreach about the Whale SENSE program in various
publications.
3) Whale SENSE program partners will work with other organizations to promote the importance of the
Whale SENSE program through their websites and applicable publications.
4) Whale SENSE program partners will recognize SENSE program participants through press releases
acknowledging the companies’ successful completion of the program’s training and their agreement
to follow the voluntary program criteria.
5) Whale SENSE program participants may use the Whale SENSE logo in advertisements that meet the
Whale SENSE advertising criteria as outlined earlier in the document, and must remove the logo if
dismissed from the program.
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Appendix 1.
Whale SENSE Participant Checklist
WDCS-R. Asmutis-SilviaWDCS-R. Asmutis-Silvia
In order to be an active participant in the Whale SENSE program, your company must meet the following criteria. Please see the Whale SENSE Program Framework or Whale SENSE Coordinators for more detailed information.
___ Conduct educational Whale SENSE briefing at beginning of each whale watch tour.
___ Educate passengers about whale protection laws, guidelines, ecology, threats, & conservation. Make sure staff are accessible for passengers to ask questions to during whale watch tour.
___ Display current year Whale SENSE placard, logo, or decal onboard vessels, ticket booths, & websites.
___ Display NOAA Fisheries Northeast Whale Watching Guidelines onboard vessel (may use poster, brochures, or placard).
___ Follow NOAA Fisheries Northeast Whale Watching Guidelines to the extent practicable in order to prevent harasssment of marine mammals.
___ Adhere to applicable North Atlantic right whale approach restrictions & speed reduction regulations.
___ Report right whale sightings &/or entangled, ship struck, dead, stranded marine mam-mals to the appropriate networks. Stand-by entangled animals when possible.
___ Keep Whale SENSE Wheel House Important Contacts card in the wheel house at all times.
___ Create, implement, & communicate an ocean stewardship project that is comunicated to passengers with a take home message that meets NOAA’s Ocean Literacy Standards.
___ All naturalists, educators, operators, & captains participate in & complete annual Whale SENSE training.
___ Engage in responsible advertising that does not depict illegal behavior & informs view-ers of responsible viewing practices, NOAA Fisheries Northeast Regional Guidelines, &/or Right Whale Approach Restrictions (where applicable).
___ If entering Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary (SBNMS), provide briefing on SBNMS historical, ecological, & biological significance to the region & whales.
Participation Checklist
www.whalesense.org
WDCS-R. Asmutis-Silvia
2 Miles 1 Mile 1/2Mile
13Knots
10Knots
7Knots
600’ 300’
Stay Away
No Head-OnApproach
Zone
100’
Close Approach Zone
One Vessel, 15 Minute M
ax
Stand-By ZoneMax Speed 7 Knots or Less1/2 Mile Reduce Speed 7 Knots or L
ess
Within 2 miles of a whale, post a dedicated lookout and stay in radio contact with other vessels (Approaching and Departing)
Monitor CH (9, 13, 16) to coordinate viewing
Important Contact InformationWhale SENSE Coordinators:
Allison Rosner, NOAA Fisheries Service. Phone: 978-282-8462. Email: [email protected]
Regina Asmutis-Silvia, Whale and Dolphin Conservation Society. Phone: 508-746-2522. Email: [email protected]
Nathalie Ward, Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary. Phone: 781-545- 8026. Email: [email protected]
Please report right whale sightings and entangled, ship struck, dead, or stranded marine mammals & sea turtles: 1-866-755-NOAA (6622)
Please report potential marine law violations: 1-800-853-1964
Guidelines Overview• Post a look out.• Avoid sudden changes in speed &
direction.• Do not approach whales within 100
feet.• If whale approaches vessel within
100 feet, put engines in neutral &do not re-engage propulsion untilwhales are observed clear of harm’sway from your vessel.
• Do not attempt head-on approach-es.
• Parallel course of whale.• Reduce vessel speed as you ap-
proach whales.• Do not separate whales within a
group.• Back away if whale shows sign of
disturbance.• Coordinate viewing time with other
vessels.• Depart animals at slow safe speeds,
only when whales are known to beout of harm’s way.
Northeast Regional Whale Watching GuidelinesPlease adhere to these voluntary guidelines to the
extent practicable in order to avoid harassing whales.
* Please note it is illegal to approach North Atlanticright whales within 500 yards (1,500 feet)
www.whalesense.orgUpdated December 2012
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Appendix 2.
Whale SENSE Pre-Season Criteria Checklist
WDCS-R. Asmutis-SilviaWDCS-R. Asmutis-Silvia
Prior to Whale SENSE program enrollment or renewal, each company should:
___ POINT OF CONTACTDetermine person who will act as the company’s Whale SENSE Point of Contact and Alternate Point of Contact.
___ STEWARDSHIP PROJECTDesign your company’s Whale SENSE Stewardship Project and identify:
• Which of NOAA’s Ocean Literacy Principles apply to your project.• The project’s objectives/goals, how the project will be implemented & monitored.• Howtheprojectwillbesharedwithpassengers(i.e.adisplay,leaflet,addedtotour
narration, etc).• What the take home message for passengers will be and how you know if your
message is being heard.
___ STAFF LISTCompose a list of operators and naturalists that you expect to employ during the whale watching season. Lists can be updated during the season as new employees are hired. This list will help you keep track of staff that have received training.
___ ADVERTISINGEngage in responsible advertising that does not depict illegal or irresponsible behavior & informs viewers of responsible viewing practices, NOAA Fisheries
Northeast Regional Guidelines, &/or Right Whale Approach Restrictions (if applicable).
___ POST WHALE WATCHING GUIDELINESDisplay NOAA Fisheries Northeast Whale Watching Guidelines onboard vessel (may use poster, brochures, or placard).
After company is enrolled in the Whale SENSE Program___ Post Whale SENSE placards on each vessel and in each ticket booth.___ Post Whale SENSE logo to company websites.___ Link company website to Whale SENSE website.___ Make sure all incoming staff receive Whale SENSE training & complete training evaluation.
When the whale watching season begins, make sure all staff adhere to the program criteria outlined in the Whale SENSE Participation
Checklist.
Pre- Season Checklist
www.whalesense.org
WDCS-R. Asmutis-Silvia
2 Miles 1 Mile 1/2Mile
13Knots
10Knots
7Knots
600’ 300’
Stay Away
No Head-OnApproach
Zone
100’
Close Approach Zone
One Vessel, 15 Minute M
ax
Stand-By ZoneMax Speed 7 Knots or Less1/2 Mile Reduce Speed 7 Knots or L
ess
Within 2 miles of a whale, post a dedicated lookout and stay in radio contact with other vessels (Approaching and Departing)
Monitor CH (9, 13, 16) to coordinate viewing
Important Contact InformationWhale SENSE Coordinators: Allison Rosner, NOAA Fisheries Service. Phone: 978-282-8462.
Email: [email protected] Asmutis-Silvia, Whale and Dolphin Conservation. Phone: 508-746-2522. Email: [email protected] Ward, Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary.
Phone: 781-545-8026. Email: [email protected]
Guidelines Overview• Post a look out.• Avoid sudden changes in speed &
direction.• Do not approach whales within 100
feet.• If whale approaches vessel within
100 feet, put engines in neutral &do not re-engage propulsion untilwhales are observed clear of harm’sway from your vessel.
• Do not attempt head-onapproaches.
• Parallel course of whale.• Reduce vessel speed as you
approach whales.• Do not separate whales within a
group.• Back away if whale shows sign of
disturbance.• Coordinate viewing time with other
vessels.• Depart animals at slow safe speeds,
only when whales are known to beout of harm’s way.
Northeast Regional Whale Watching GuidelinesAdhere to these voluntary guidelines to the extent
practicable in order to avoid harassing whales.
* Please note it is illegal to approach North Atlanticright whales within 500 yards (1,500 feet)
www.whalesense.orgUpdated December 2012
NOAA’s Ocean Literacy Principles 1. The Earth has one big ocean with many features.2. The ocean and life in the ocean shape the features of Earth.3. Theoceanisamajorinfluenceonweatherandclimate.4. The ocean makes the Earth habitable.5. The ocean supports a great diversity of life and ecosystems.6. The ocean and humans are inextricably interconnected.7. The ocean is largely unexplored. Please report right whale
sightings and entangled, ship struck, dead, or stranded marine mammals & sea
turtles: 1-866-755-NOAA (6622)
Please report potential marine law violations: 1-800-853-1964
22 | P a g e
Appendix 3
Whale SENSE Annual Evaluation Criteria
2014 Whale SENSE On the Water Participant Annual Evaluation
The purpose of this observation is to gain insight into whether the Whale SENSE training was effective in communicating program criteria to naturalists and operators, determine how well participants understand Whale SENSE program requirements, how well participants are implementing program requirements, and assess the educational value of the whale watching tour.
Observers: Before the whale watch tour begins, please read and become familiar with the observation form and complete those sections that are unrelated to naturalist narration or vessel operation.
Observer Names: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Company Name Weather Conditions
Location Date
Tour time Starts Tour time End
Names of the crew:
Captain: __________________________________________________
Lead Naturalist: ____________________________________________
Dockside Observation. Directions: For the table below, check the appropriate No or Yes column corresponding to each behavior. If the answer is no,
describe/explain the situation if possible.
BEHAVIOR YES NO EXPLAIN/DESCRIBE Are whale watching guidelines posted in location accessible to passengers?
Is Whale SENSE logo placard posted onboard vessel?
Is there an educational exhibit onboard the vessel?
Naturalist Focused Observation: Narration Quality. Directions: In the table below, make a tally mark in the appropriate box to show how many times
the naturalist discussed the following topics. Note examples of each topic presented.
REQUIRED TOPICS Check if
discussed
When During the Trip Was this
Presented (Pre‐trip, dockside,
underway, at the encounter,
return trip).
Please rate the detail of the description given on a scale of 1 to 3 (1=
mentioned key words but no detail provided; 2= mentioned key words and
some detail provided; 3= mentioned and provided exceptional detail).
Please provide description if necessary.
Marine Mammal Protection Act or Whale Protection Laws
Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary
Whale SENSE Stewardship Project
Whale SENSE program description
Whale SENSE program partner organizations
Whale watching guidelines
Additional Comments on naturalist narration:
Operator Focused Observation: Vessel Operation Around Whales. Directions: Complete the following table when vessel approaches first sighted
whale.
Start Viewing Time
End Viewing Time
Long./Lat. Species Present Species Key
• HW= Humpbackwhale
• FW= Fin whale • MW= Minke whale • RW= Right whale • SW= Sei whale • DF= Dolphin • HP= Harbor porpoise • SL= Seal• O= Other (describe)
# of Animals
Initial Animal Behavior Behavior Key: • F=Feeding • T= Traveling • B= Breaching • D= Diving • O= Other
(explain)
Other Behaviors Exhibited During Viewing Time
Behavior Key: • F=Feeding • T= Traveling • B= Breaching • D= Diving • O= Other (explain)
# of Other Vessels Present Vessel Key: • RV= Recreational vessel • FV= Fishing Vessel • SV= Sailing Vessel • WW= Whale Watch vessel • TK= Tanker • RS= Research vessel • OV= Other vessel (explain)
BEHAVIOR NO YES EXPLAIN
Is lookout posted once whale is sighted?
Does vessel coordinate viewing time with other vessels in the area?
When approximately 600 feet or closer, does vessel approach animal from behind?
When approximately 600 feet or closer, does vessel attempt a head on approach to traveling whales?
Does vessel intentionally approach humpback, fin, or minke whale(s) within 100 feet
If approached by a humpback, fin or minke whale within 100 feet, is vessel placed in neutral?
Does vessel cut off traveling whales’ path?
Does vessel departs marine mammals at a slow safe speed?
Does vessel depart area only after whale is known to be clear of vessel?
If animal was traveling, did it abruptly change directions when the vessel approached?
If animal was logging, did animal wake up and move away when vessel approached?
Did animal trumpet or show other signs of disturbance at the approach of the vessel?
If feeding, did animal stop feeding at the approach of the vessel
Operator Focused Observation: Vessel Operation Around Whales. Directions: Complete the following table when vessel approaches another whale
during the trip
Start Viewing Time
End Viewing Time
Long./Lat. Species Present Species Key
• HW= Humpbackwhale
• FW= Fin whale • MW= Minke whale • RW= Right whale • SW= Sei whale • DF= Dolphin • HP= Harbor porpoise • SL= Seal• O= Other (describe)
# of Animals
Initial Animal Behavior Behavior Key: • F=Feeding • T= Traveling • B= Breaching • D= Diving • O= Other
(explain)
Other Behaviors Exhibited During Viewing Time
Behavior Key: • F=Feeding • T= Traveling • B= Breaching • D= Diving • O= Other (explain)
# of Other Vessels Present Vessel Key: • RV= Recreational vessel • FV= Fishing Vessel • SV= Sailing Vessel • WW= Whale Watch vessel • TK= Tanker • RS= Research vessel • OV= Other vessel (explain)
BEHAVIOR NO YES EXPLAIN
Is lookout posted once whale is sighted?
Does vessel coordinate viewing time with other vessels in the area?
When approximately 600 feet or closer, does vessel approach animal from behind?
When approximately 600 feet or closer, does vessel attempt a head on approach to traveling whales?
Does vessel intentionally approach humpback, fin, or minke whale(s) within 100 feet
If approached by a humpback, fin or minke whale within 100 feet, is vessel placed in neutral?
Does vessel cut off traveling whales’ path?
Does vessel departs marine mammals at a slow safe speed?
Does vessel depart area only after whale is known to be clear of vessel?
If animal was traveling, did it abruptly change directions when the vessel approached?
If animal was logging, did animal wake up and move away when vessel approached?
Did animal trumpet or show other signs of disturbance at the approach of the vessel?
If feeding, did animal stop feeding at the approach of the vessel
Additional Comments/Observations Regarding Vessel Operation:
27 | P a g e
Appendix 4.
Whale SENSE Stewardship Project Design Template Example
Date:
Company:
Whale SENSE Point of Contact:
Whale SENSE Alternative Point of Contact:
Whale SENSE Stewardship Project Title:
What Ocean Literacy Principles apply to your project (check all that apply)
The Earth has one big ocean with many features.
The ocean and life in the ocean shape the features of Earth.
The ocean is a major influence on weather and climate.
The ocean makes the Earth habitable.
The ocean supports a great diversity of life and ecosystems.
The ocean and humans are inextricably interconnected.
The ocean is largely unexplored.
Please describe your project’s objectives, methods, and how you know you will be meeting your goals:
How will you share your project with passengers (i.e. a display, leaflet, added to tour narration, etc.)?
What will the take home message be?
Please explain how you will evaluate the effectiveness of your project’s message (i.e. how you will
know if your message is being heard)?
29 | P a g e
Appendix 5.
NOAA’s Ocean Literacy Standards
Page 1 of 9 Ocean Literacy Initiative 2004-2005 Updated on 10-11-2005
Ocean Literacy The Essential Principles and
Fundamental Concepts of Ocean Sciences
On our blue planet, the dominant feature is ocean. It contains 97 percent of the Earth’s water and releases vapor into the atmosphere that returns as rain, sleet, and snow, ever replenishing the planet with freshwater. All life, including our own, is dependent on the ocean. Understanding the ocean is integral to comprehending this planet on which we live.
This document presents a vision for an ocean-literate society. It represents many months of thinking and refinement by scores of scientists and science educators (see Acknowledgments), but it is still a “work in progress.” It offers a definition of ocean literacy and identifies the essential principles of ocean sciences that should be included in K-12 classrooms as well as the fundamental concepts that are the building blocks of these essential principles. Although the formal K-12 system in the United States has been the primary focus of this collaboration thus far, it is hoped that the definition, essential principles and fundamental concepts can be used to guide and influence development of educational efforts in free-choice learning environments.
We continue to seek input from an ever growing circle of colleagues to achieve consensus about what is essential for students to understand about our ocean planet. This document describes our thinking at a particular moment in time. For future revisions and changes to this document or to see documentation of the process used to develop this brochure, please visit http://www.coexploration.org/oceanliteracy.
In addition, further information relating to ocean literacy and ocean resources can be found at: http://www.ngsednet.org/oceans http://www.marine-ed.org http://www.cosee.net http://www.education.noaa.gov
Why is it important to include the ocean in our K-12 classrooms?
Among all disciplines, ocean and aquatic sciences are inexplicably and idiosyncratically underrepresented in K-12 education. Concepts and topics about our ocean and coasts are hardly taught in K-12 schools, and hardly appear in K-12 curriculum materials, text books, assessments or standards. This is true despite the fact that the ocean covers most of our planet, is
Page 2 of 9 Ocean Literacy Initiative 2004-2005 Updated on 10-11-2005
home to most of the life on Earth, regulates our weather and climate, provides most of our oxygen, and feeds much of the human population.
Educational standards are the strategic point of leverage for bringing about significant systemic change in the content of science education. Our current K-12 education system is defined by the goal of alignment. In most states, curriculum content, instruction and assessments derive from accepted standards. If the ocean sciences continue to be excluded from state and national science standards, they will remain marginalized and efforts to incorporate them into curricula will be stymied. However, education standards are not developed and adopted easily; nor are they revised frequently. Those who are concerned about science education and about the future health of our ocean planet must actively promote the development of science standards and assessments that include ocean concepts by local educational agencies such as school boards and districts, state departments of education, and professional societies and associations. By agreeing upon and documenting the essential science content and processes related to our ocean and coasts the ocean sciences and science education communities have provided a powerful tool for influencing state and national standards and assessments when the opportunity arises.
What is Ocean Literacy?
Ocean literacy is an understanding of the ocean’s influence on you and your influence on the ocean. An ocean-literate person understands:
• the essential principles and fundamental concepts about thefunctioning of the ocean;
• can communicate about the ocean in a meaningful way; and• is able to make informed and responsible decisions regarding
the ocean and its resources.
Developed through a community-wide consensus-building process, this definition, along with the Essential Principles and supporting Fundamental Concepts, build on previous efforts to define ocean literacy, assess what the public knows about the ocean, and redress the lack of ocean-related content in state and national science education standards and assessments.
Please note that by design, the Essential Principles (see below) are overarching ideas that do not neatly fall within a particular discipline. As a result, there are many fundamental concepts that illustrate more than one Essential Principle. For example, Essential Principle #4 has only two fundamental concepts listed with it, but there are several others in this document that could be. This is unavoidable and demonstrates the true interdisciplinary nature of ocean sciences.
Page 3 of 9 Ocean Literacy Initiative 2004-2005 Updated on 10-11-2005
Essential Principles Every ocean literate person should understand these essential principles:
1. The Earth has one big ocean with many features. 2. The ocean and life in the ocean shape the features of Earth. 3. The ocean is a major influence on weather and climate. 4. The ocean makes the Earth habitable. 5. The ocean supports a great diversity of life and ecosystems. 6. The ocean and humans are inextricably interconnected. 7. The ocean is largely unexplored.
Fundamental Concepts Offered below each essential principle is a series of supporting fundamental concepts, which are analogous to the fundamental concepts that underlie each content standard of the National Science Education Standards (NSES).
1. The Earth has one big ocean with many features.
a. The ocean is the dominant physical feature on our planet Earth—covering approximately 70% of the planet’s surface. There is one ocean with many ocean basins, such as the North Pacific, South Pacific, North Atlantic, South Atlantic, Indian and Arctic.
b. An ocean basin’s size, shape and features (such as islands,
trenches, mid-ocean ridges, rift valleys) vary due to the movement of Earth’s lithospheric plates. Earth’s highest peaks, deepest valleys and flattest vast plains are all in the ocean.
c. Throughout the ocean there is one interconnected circulation
system powered by wind, tides, the force of the Earth’s rotation (Coriolis effect), the Sun, and water density differences. The shape of ocean basins and adjacent land masses influence the path of circulation.
d. Sea level is the average height of the ocean relative to the land,
taking into account the differences caused by tides. Sea level changes as plate tectonics cause the volume of ocean basins and the height of the land to change. It changes as ice caps on land melt or grow. It also changes as sea water expands and contracts when ocean water warms and cools.
Page 4 of 9 Ocean Literacy Initiative 2004-2005 Updated on 10-11-2005
e. Most of Earth’s water (97%) is in the ocean. Seawater has unique properties: it is saline, its freezing point is slightly lower than fresh water, its density is slightly higher, its electrical conductivity is much higher, and it is slightly basic. The salt in seawater comes from eroding land, volcanic emissions, reactions at the seafloor, and atmospheric deposition.
f. The ocean is an integral part of the water cycle and is connected
to all of the earth’s water reservoirs via evaporation and precipitation processes.
g. The ocean is connected to major lakes, watersheds and
waterways because all major watersheds on Earth drain to the ocean. Rivers and streams transport nutrients, salts, sediments and pollutants from watersheds to estuaries and to the ocean.
h. Although the ocean is large, it is finite and resources are limited.
2. The ocean and life in the ocean shape the features of the Earth.
a. Many earth materials and geochemical cycles originate in the ocean. Many of the sedimentary rocks now exposed on land were formed in the ocean. Ocean life laid down the vast volume of siliceous and carbonate rocks.
b. Sea level changes over time have expanded and contracted
continental shelves, created and destroyed inland seas, and shaped the surface of land.
c. Erosion—the wearing away of rock, soil and other biotic and
abiotic earth materials—occurs in coastal areas as wind, waves, and currents in rivers and the ocean move sediments.
d. Sand consists of tiny bits of animals, plants, rocks and minerals.
Most beach sand is eroded from land sources and carried to the coast by rivers, but sand is also eroded from coastal sources by surf. Sand is redistributed by waves and coastal currents seasonally.
e. Tectonic activity, sea level changes, and force of waves influence
the physical structure and landforms of the coast.
Page 5 of 9 Ocean Literacy Initiative 2004-2005 Updated on 10-11-2005
3. The ocean is a major influence on weather and climate.
a. The ocean controls weather and climate by dominating the Earth’s energy, water and carbon systems.
b. The ocean absorbs much of the solar radiation reaching Earth.
The ocean loses heat by evaporation. This heat loss drives atmospheric circulation when, after it is released into the atmosphere as water vapor, it condenses and forms rain. Condensation of water evaporated from warm seas provides the energy for hurricanes and cyclones.
c. The El Niño Southern Oscillation causes important changes in
global weather patterns because it changes the way heat is released to the atmosphere in the Pacific.
d. Most rain that falls on land originally evaporated from the
tropical ocean.
e. The ocean dominates the Earth’s carbon cycle. Half the primary productivity on Earth takes place in the sunlit layers of the ocean and the ocean absorbs roughly half of all carbon dioxide added to the atmosphere.
f. The ocean has had, and will continue to have, a significant
influence on climate change by absorbing, storing, and moving heat, carbon and water.
g. Changes in the ocean’s circulation have produced large, abrupt
changes in climate during the last 50,000 years.
4. The ocean makes Earth habitable.
a. Most of the oxygen in the atmosphere originally came from the activities of photosynthetic organisms in the ocean.
b. The first life is thought to have started in the ocean. The earliest
evidence of life is found in the ocean.
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5. The ocean supports a great diversity of life and ecosystems.
a. Ocean life ranges in size from the smallest virus to the largestanimal that has lived on Earth, the blue whale.
b. Most life in the ocean exists as microbes. Microbes are the mostimportant primary producers in the ocean. Not only are they themost abundant life form in the ocean, they have extremely fastgrowth rates and life cycles.
c. Some major groups are found exclusively in the ocean. Thediversity of major groups of organisms is much greater in theocean than on land.
d. Ocean biology provides many unique examples of life cycles,adaptations and important relationships among organisms (suchas symbiosis, predator-prey dynamics and energy transfer) thatdo not occur on land.
e. The ocean is three-dimensional, offering vast living space anddiverse habitats from the surface through the water column tothe seafloor. Most of the living space on Earth is in the ocean.
f. Ocean habitats are defined by environmental factors. Due tointeractions of abiotic factors such as salinity, temperature,oxygen, pH, light, nutrients, pressure, substrate and circulation,ocean life is not evenly distributed temporally or spatially, i.e., itis “patchy”. Some regions of the ocean support more diverseand abundant life than anywhere on Earth, while much of theocean is considered a desert.
g. There are deep ocean ecosystems that are independent ofenergy from sunlight and photosynthetic organisms.Hydrothermal vents, submarine hot springs, and methane coldseeps rely only on chemical energy and chemosyntheticorganisms to support life.
h. Tides, waves and predation cause vertical zonation patternsalong the shore, influencing the distribution and diversity oforganisms.
i. Estuaries provide important and productive nursery areas formany marine and aquatic species.
Page 7 of 9 Ocean Literacy Initiative 2004-2005 Updated on 10-11-2005
6. The ocean and humans are inextricably interconnected.
a. The ocean affects every human life. It supplies freshwater (mostrain comes from the ocean) and nearly all Earth’s oxygen. Itmoderates the Earth’s climate, influences our weather, andaffects human health.
b. From the ocean we get foods, medicines, and mineral andenergy resources. In addition, it provides jobs, supports ournation’s economy, serves as a highway for transportation ofgoods and people, and plays a role in national security.
c. The ocean is a source of inspiration, recreation, rejuvenation anddiscovery. It is also an important element in the heritage ofmany cultures.
d. Much of the world’s population lives in coastal areas.
e. Humans affect the ocean in a variety of ways. Laws, regulationsand resource management affect what is taken out and put intothe ocean. Human development and activity leads to pollution(such as point source, non-point source, and noise pollution) andphysical modifications (such as changes to beaches, shores andrivers). In addition, humans have removed most of the largevertebrates from the ocean.
f. Coastal regions are susceptible to natural hazards (such astsunamis, hurricanes, cyclones, sea level change, and stormsurges).
g. Everyone is responsible for caring for the ocean. The oceansustains life on Earth and humans must live in ways that sustainthe ocean. Individual and collective actions are needed toeffectively manage ocean resources for all.
7. The ocean is largely unexplored.
a. The ocean is the last and largest unexplored place on Earth—lessthan 5% of it has been explored. This is the great frontier for thenext generation’s explorers and researchers, where they will findgreat opportunities for inquiry and investigation.
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b. Understanding the ocean is more than a matter of curiosity.Exploration, inquiry and study are required to better understandocean systems and processes.
c. Over the last 40 years, use of ocean resources has increasedsignificantly, therefore the future sustainability of oceanresources depends on our understanding of those resources andtheir potential and limitations.
d. New technologies, sensors and tools are expanding our ability toexplore the ocean. Ocean scientists are relying more and moreon satellites, drifters, buoys, subsea observatories andunmanned submersibles.
e. Use of mathematical models is now an essential part of oceansciences. Models help us understand the complexity of the oceanand of its interaction with Earth’s climate. They processobservations and help describe the interactions among systems.
f. Ocean exploration is truly interdisciplinary. It requires closecollaboration among biologists, chemists, climatologists,computer programmers, engineers, geologists, meteorologists,and physicists, and new ways of thinking.
Acknowledgments
This guide is the product of a two-week online discussion in October 2004 and extensive follow-up communications among some 100 members of the ocean sciences and education communities. Sponsored by the National Geographic Society's Oceans for Life Initiative (NGS) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), organizers included NGS, NOAA, the Centers for Ocean Sciences Education Excellence (COSEE) and the National Marine Educators Association (NMEA). Hosted by the College of Exploration Conference Center, the workshop was also endorsed by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and The Ocean Project. The workshop was planned and coordinated by Francesca Cava, National Geographic Society; Sarah Schoedinger, NOAA; Craig Strang, Lawrence Hall of Science, UC Berkeley; and Peter Tuddenham, College of Exploration. In addition to all those who participated in the online workshop, the following people made significant contributions to the development and preliminary review of this document:
Alice Alldredge, University of California, Santa Barbara;
Page 9 of 9 Ocean Literacy Initiative 2004-2005 Updated on 10-11-2005
Lincoln Bergman, Lawrence Hall of Science, University of California, Berkeley Francesca Cava, National Geographic Society; Bob Chen, University of Massachusetts-Boston; Jennifer Cherrier, Florida A&M University; John Farrington, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution; Steve Gaines, University of California, Santa Barbara; Gary Griggs, University of California, Santa Cruz; Catherine Halversen; Lawrence Hall of Science, University of California, Berkeley; Beth Jewell, West Springfield High School; Judy Lemus, University of Southern California; Mellie Lewis, Altholton Elementary School; George Matsumoto, Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute; Chris Parsons, Wordcraft; Carolyn Randolph, South Carolina Education Association; Sarah Schoedinger, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration; Sally Goetz Shuler, National Science Resources Center; Susan Snyder, National Marine Educators Association; Elizabeth K. Stage, Lawrence Hall of Science, University of California, Berkeley; Craig Strang, Lawrence Hall of Science, University of California, Berkeley; Bob Stewart, Texas A&M University; and Peter Tuddenham, College of Exploration.
-- The End --
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Appendix 6.
NOAA’s Fisheries Service’s Recommendations for Advertising
Wild Marine Mammal Viewing
NOAA Fisheries Service (NMFS) is responsible for administering the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 (MMPA, 16 U.S.C. et seq.) for the conservation and management of all dolphins, whales, seals, and sea lions in the wild. Under the MMPA, it is illegal to harass or feed wild marine mammals. “Harassment” is defined as any act of pursuit, torment or annoyance, which has the potential to injure or disturb by causing disruption of behavioral patterns. It is also illegal to negligently or intentionally operate an aircraft or vessel in a manner that disturbs a marine mammal (50 CFR 216.3).
To avoid harassment, NMFS recommends that people watch wild marine mammals from a respectable distance using binoculars or telephoto lenses, stay clear of areas used for resting or sheltering, avoid surprising the animals, and never feed them. Advertisements that reflect this responsible approach to marine mammal viewing are recommended. The following guidelines are intended to assist commercial operators and magazine publishers in developing advertisements that do not depict illegal and harmful activities to wild marine mammals.
• Do not depict people feeding, touching, pursuing, chasing, attempting toswim with, or closely interacting with wild marine mammals or any activitiesthat would violate the MMPA or ESA.
• Do not show vessels underway within close approach zones (i.e. vessels withwakes).
• If an image of a right whale is used, include a caption referencing the 500yard approach restriction.
• Include a prepared statement about responsible large whale viewing inadvertisements with close approach pictures such as (but not limited to),“This vessel adheres to the Northeast Whale Watching Guidelines and doesnot intentionally approach whales within 100 feet. For the safety of thewhales and our passengers, if a whale approaches our vessel within 100 feet,the vessel will place the engine in neutral and wait until the animal is locatedat a safe distance away from the vessel before reengaging the engines.”
Recommendations for Advertising1 Whale
Watching Activities in the Northeast Region
noaafisheriesservice
The Protected Species Division provides stewardship of living marine resources through science-based conservation and management and the promotion of healthy marine ecosystems.
Science, Service, Stewardship
U.S. Department of Commerce | National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration | National Marine Fisheries Service | Northeast Regional Office
1”Advertising” includes any print advertisements that mention the business’s name or those linked to the business, search engine listings, and any posted photos. This also includes, but is not limited
to, pitch sheets, print, web, visual, and radio.
Updated April 2011