ToolsUse technology to monitor turtlesIf we ever hope to get anything done right, it is important that decisions and actions are based on information that is accurate and relevant. There is nothing to prevent another "turtle tragedy" unless we go beyond the "blame and excuses" stage, and take a critical look at what can be done. So here's my simple suggestion. Provide the turtle watchers /guides at Grande Riviere with hand-held GPS units. Let them record every nesting that they are present for, and try once a week to record all nestings during a 24-hour period. The GPS units are relatively cheap ($1,500) and easy to use. These records will give location and time of the nestings, and can then be extrapolated to get what is a reasonable idea of the nesting activity at Grande Riviere. Using an average incubation time, a map of the beach can then be produced with layers that show at any time, what is the current situation. This would give a rational basis for proposed activities that could affect both turtles that would be coming up to nest, as well as unhatched eggs. As a member of the Field Naturalists' Club, as well as a land surveyor, I am prepared to offer the services of myself and professional colleagues – pro bono. Glenn Wilkes Diamond Vale |
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