The voluntary code of conduct for dolphin watching in Port Stephens, Australia: is self-regulation an effective management tool?

摘要: In the absence of guidelines or government regulation for a rapidly expanding industry, dolphin watching operators in Port Stephens, New South Wales, Australia, formulated and adopted voluntary code conduct 1996. This was designed to reduce perceived pressures on dolphins updated conform Australian National Guidelines Cetacean Observation when they were released 2000. Compliance this assessed shore-based survey over austral summer 2002/03. Operator compliance generally high for: number boats per school; time spent by individual with dolphins; method approach frequency cruises conducted day. However, did not discriminate between schools containing calves those that (equating breach national guidelines) three nine regular committed most breaches code, particularly regard boat-handling around The code’s aim reducing exposure achieved as subject consecutive approaches numerous interactions also involved which apply. is thus limited value without revision, education enforcement. inability manage other watercraft highlights need management alternatives will increase all users waterways. Furthermore, widespread assessments are necessary, where effects cetacean-based tourism being conducted. To determine whether identified impacts result inappropriate strategies, non-compliance suitable management, requires strategies tested while simultaneously testing ensuring compliance.