The objective of this study is to (1) better understand factors that motivate compliance within specific vessel operator communities subject to North Atlantic Right Whale Vessel Speed Restrictions, (2) assess the effectiveness of various education and outreach methods/tools used to reach these vessel communities, and (3) determine if there are more applicable and effective communication and/or outreach methods/tools to enhance compliance with mandatory and voluntary speed restrictions/recommendations.

Our Team is using social science survey methods to investigate two target vessel communities (pleasure vessels/large yachts and large ocean-going vessels) to determine their ability and willingness to comply and cooperate with mandatory and voluntary speed reduction measures for North Atlantic right whales and to identify opportunities for enhancing the audiences’ ability or willingness to comply. The results of this study will assist NOAA in directing the development of future education/outreach efforts in the identified areas and will serve as a foundation for education/outreach efforts in other areas of the United States where vessel speed measures exist.

Photo taken under NMFS Permit #10014.