Acoustic Deterrence of Harmful Marine Mammal-Fishery Interactions: Proceedings of a Workshop held in Seattle, Washington

This workshop's main objectives were to: (a) evaluate experimental and other evidence concerning the efficacy of acoustic deterrents in preventing or reducing interactions between marine mammals and fisheries, including aquaculture operation; @) identify critical uncertainties about the effectiveness of acoustic deterrent devices and their effects on marine mammals and other biota; (c) identify and establish priorities for relevant research; and (d) develop guidelines for when, how, and under what conditions acoustic deterrents should be incorporated into management. Workshop participants included representatives of the fishing industry, environmental groups, and manufacturers of acoustic deterrent devices, staff members from government agencies in the United States, Canada, and Australia, and scientists from seven countries and 21 institutions. Participants broke into working groups with specific terms of reference, and the reports of the working groups are included as part of the ovlerall workshop report.