The Greater Farallones Association (GFA) invites proposals from qualified consultants or firms to lead boater outreach efforts as part of the Seabird Protection Network (SPN), a collaborative program of the Greater Farallones and Cordell Bank National Marine Sanctuaries and GFA. The goal of the Seabird Protection Network is to protect seabird colonies from human disturbance—particularly from close-approaching recreational and commercial fishing boats —by increasing awareness and changing boater behavior through education and outreach.
SPN has a long history of engaging with fishing and boating communities from Monterey to Bodega Bay. The selected consultant will build upon this work by conducting in-person outreach to ensure fishermen are informed on how to identify locations of sensitive seabird colonies and how they can avoid disturbing them while on the water. SPN has existing materials, messages and distribution strategies. The selected consultant will leverage these to conduct in-person outreach at harbors and marinas, as well as conduct in-person surveys that test the effectiveness of messages and materials. After wrapping up fieldwork, the consultant will analyze feedback from surveys and make recommendations on improving messages, outreach strategies and materials.