Palau Takes on Stricter Dugong Legislation

Koror, 3 May 2011 Marine Mammal Legislation and Enforcement Workshop was held in Palau International Coral Reef Center on 27 April 2011. The workshop objectives were to (i) gain feedback on the barriers, challenges and solutions to effective enforcement of the existing and proposed dugong and marine mammal legislation; (ii) inform the legislation and rules and regulations being proposed for dugong and marine mammal management; (iii) gain additional information on marine mammals in Palau from the enforcement community; (iv) build collaboration between enforcement agencies for effective monitoring, enforcement, reporting and data management; (v) develop standard protocols for reporting sightings, violations, and other enforcement activities; and (vi) build awareness of enforcement officers on marine mammals and related issues. Amongst the participants were representatives from key enforcement and agencies, states with conservation officers, and the congress.

Consequently, the Palau congress passed new, stricter dugong legislation on 29 April 2011, which increases the penalties for killing or causing injury to a dugong or possessing or selling any dugong parts or products and for other related purposes. This Dugong Protection Act is awaiting President’s signature.

Last updated on 05 February 2015

Type: 
News
Country: 
Palau
Region: 
Western Pacific
Species: 
Dugong dugon
Species group: 
Marine mammals