Marine Mammal Monitoring Studies

REPORTS: 2001 Annual Report 2002 Quick-Look Report 2002 Annual Report 2003 Quick-Look Report 2003 Annual Report 2004 Quick-Look Report 2004 Annual Report 2005 Quick-Look Report 2005 Annual Report 2006 Quick-Look Report 2006 Annual Report   All files are in Adobe PDF format

The Marine Mammal Monitoring Studies element of the NPAL project is designed to advance the understanding of the potential for long-term effects of the sound transmissions on marine life. To do this, eight aerial surveys are conducted during each humpback whale season while the sound source is operational. The Marine Mammal Monitoring Studies have four components: 1) Data Analysis: NPAL abundance and distribution data are statistically anlyzed and compared with data collected during previous years; 2) Data Reporting: NPAL aerial survey results, data compilations and findings are published in reports (documents and/or electonic versions); 3) Data Sharing: ONR/Scripps makes all published reports available in the public domain; and 4) Data Monitoring: Marine mammal stranding data in Hawaii is monitored for any long term trends. The aerial surveys are performed using methods consistent with those used during previous years. The survey information is compiled into a Quick-Look report, which is usually available in late April. That information is then further analyzed and presented in the Annual Report, which is released in late July of each year. The reports are prepared and distributed in accordance with the permits/authorizations that Scripps received.