AIS Whale-alert! Assessing the fleet preferences for near real-time whale conservation in the Atlantic Canada [graduate project].
Date
2017
Authors
McLeod, Ainslie
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Abstract
Description
North Atlantic Right Whales are an endangered species that face many anthropogenic threats, including vessel strikes. A recent morality event in Atlantic Canada has emphasized the need to implement a flexible method to monitor and protect right whales in real-time. Passive Acoustic Monitoring (PAM) technology is currently used in conjunction with ocean glider technology to detect and identify whales and their location in near real-time based on vocalizations. This novel technology can allow for real-time whale conservation by linking PAM to vessel communication technology, such as the automatic identification system (AIS), to broadcast whale locations directly to vessels in the local fleet. The implementation of the MEOPAR (Marine Environmental Observation, Prediction and Response) AIS Whale Alert is nearing completion, but a paucity of information remains about the fleet’s preferences and limitations towards implementing this real-time conservation technology into the bridge protocol. In my study, I surveyed and characterized the fleet and determined the implications for real-time management. The survey results provide insight to fleet receptivity and perceived utility of receiving real-time alerts, as well as their preferred response protocol. AIS analyses determined the Atlantic Canada fleet is dynamic with a high turn over rate. The information gained from this study will inform management plan to implement this novel conservation technology based on stakeholder needs and preferences. The dynamic nature of the ever-changing fleet requires special consideration. By considering fleet preferences towards implementing this technology, it is more likely that the fleet will comply with real-time conservation in Atlantic Canada.