WDCS and its Dolphin SMART Program partners, including the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, NOAA Fisheries Service and the Dolphin Ecology Project accepted the fourth charter operator into a program created to help protect wild dolphins in the Keys. Sea Bear Aquatic Adventures officially joined the Dolphin SMART program after successfully meeting standards that promote responsible viewing of dolphins in the wild.
“We are excited to welcome Sea Bear Aquatic Adventures as the newest Dolphin SMART operator,” said Courtney Vail, US Policy Officer and Dolphin SMART program lead. “We are optimistic about the multi-stakeholder approach of the Program which focuses on positive incentives for both operators and the public in promoting wild dolphin conservation. We look forward to other regions adopting this program to address harassment issues that remain prevalent in some parts of the country."
The Dolphin SMART program was developed by WDCS in partnership with the NOAA Office of National Marine Sanctuaries, NOAA Fisheries' Protected Resources Program, and Dolphin Ecology Project. The project is funded by NOAA Fisheries and the “Protect Wild Dolphins” license plate funds through Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institution. The acronym “SMART” is a reminder of the basic principles of dolphin viewing etiquette:
* Stay at least 50 yards from dolphins,
* Move away slowly if the dolphins show signs of disturbance,
* Always put your vessel engine in neutral when dolphins are near,
* Refrain from feeding, touching or swimming with wild dolphins,
* Teach others to be Dolphin SMART.
Dolphin SMART-approved charters receive flags and stickers and permission to use the Dolphin SMART logo in their advertising. Each year, participants are evaluated to ensure they continue to meet program standards. By looking for the current year on flags and logos and checking the updated participant list, visitors to the Florida Keys seeking the thrill of seeing dolphins in the wild can ensure the tour operator they select is Dolphin SMART. For more information, visit http://www.dolphinsmart.org or contact Key West program coordinator Megan Harber at 305-809-4700.