Dear WIOMPAN Members,
We need your expertise and insights to contribute to a crucial study focusing on the impacts of drifting Fish Aggregating Devices (d-FADs) on Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). This research aims to shed light on the geographic distribution of d-FADs in relation to MPAs and explore potential solutions to mitigate their effects on protected areas.
Who Can Participate?
If you’re 18 years or older and have firsthand experience working in an MPA anywhere in the world, we invite you to take part in this study. Whether you’ve encountered d-FADs within your MPA or not, your perspective is invaluable to our research.
How You Can Help
Participating in this study involves completing a short online survey, which will only take 3-5 minutes of your time. Rest assured, the survey is designed to be anonymous to ensure confidentiality. Your responses will provide valuable insights into the interaction between d-FADs and MPAs.
Access the Survey
Please access the survey using the following link: https://qualtricsxmr9dfz3bp6.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8nWfAHpYpGWBpLo
Deadline: 20 March 2024
Ethical Clearance
This research has been ethically approved by the Dalhousie University Ethics Board (REB # 2023-6982). Should you have any questions or concerns regarding the study, feel free to reach out to the study leads, Dr. Boris Worm (bworm@dal.ca) or Dr. Laurenne Schiller (laurenne.schiller@dal.ca).
Spread the Word
We encourage you to share this email and the survey link with your colleagues and networks. Your contributions and those of your peers will greatly enhance the depth and breadth of our study. Every perspective matters, and we sincerely appreciate your time and participation.
Conclusion
Together, let’s work towards a better understanding of the impacts of d-FADs on MPAs and explore effective strategies for conservation. Your involvement in this study is vital, and we thank you for your commitment to marine conservation efforts.