Since 2014, Tonina Association has been conducting research during several field seasons to establish the conservation status of the cetacean populations in the area and their principal risks. Following the results, the Association, together with several stakeholders, recommended a package of mitigation measures, including:
1. Surveillance of whale watching boats from both land and sea stations. This measure has been adopted by the proper authorities.
2. Specific training courses, both for employers and tourism guides. These courses are mandatory in order to obtain a whale watching license. This measure has been partially adopted by the relevant authorities.
3. It is mandatory for all boats to hold a favourable environmental impact report, including acoustic studies (noise levels with frequency and different speeds). Negotiations are ongoing to make it mandatory for the Ministry of Ecological Transition to revise the licenses granted.
4. All the boats working inside the SAC area must have propeller guards. This measure includes all boats, not just whale watching tour operators; research, recreational, diving boats, and those who have special permits to take underwater photos and/or videos.
5. Other measures will be adopted once new data comes out.
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