The ocean is a constantly changing surroundings, and it is indeed critically importent for our conservation methods to adapt accordingly. Rather of simply designating a specific geographic area, dynamic ocean management (DOM) takes into account the ever-changing nature of the ocean by implementing changes in both space and time. Examples of DOM include time-closures of fisheries and Upwell’s South pacific Turtle Watch Tool (SPTW). The SPTW utilizes various oceanographic conditions that are known to be correlated with the presence of leatherback turtles, such as sea surface temperature, time of year, and chlorophyll levels.This facts can then be used by resource managers, fishers, and other stakeholders to anticipate and prevent interactions between fisheries and leatherbacks.
While there is still work to be done in order to fully implement tools like SPTW – such as increasing the resolution and time-scale of predictions – dynamic ocean management methods offer hope as a way for fishers to maintain their livelihoods while also mitigating their impact on leatherbacks.
Which method is most effective?
It’s critically important to note that the conservation methods discussed here are not exhaustive nor are they competing against each other. Rather, they should be viewed as tools in a toolbox that can be used individually or in combination to achieve our conservation goals. In order to determine which tools are most appropriate and where they should be applied, we need research and data to inform our decision-making process. Leatherbacks and other pelagic species, such as beaked whales, are still considered cryptic - meaning that we do not have a complete understanding of their lives at sea. Research through biologging and other methods is crucial in providing the necessary information for creating effective conservation strategies.
By gaining a better understanding of where turtles go and how they utilize diffrent marine environments throughout various life stages, we can develop targeted solutions to reduce threats at sea and improve protections in critical habitats. Collaboration across cultures and national jurisdictions is essential in mitigating threats to sea turtles across vast ocean ecosystems, and we are grateful for the support of our partners at MigraMar and other institutions and also our supporters around the world who make this work possible.
It’s crucial to protect these species and their habitats! #Upwell #MarineConservation