Building Support for Sharks
Until now, it has been assumed that fisheries agencies have exclusive power over shark management decisions. But why is that? There are powerful industries in tourism and entertainment that generate far greater economic gains, and the public also has a vested interest in protecting sharks. Yet, these stakeholders are rarely involved in conservation campaigns. Part of the problem is the fishing industry’s hold on the political process, but the other issue is that these stakeholders don’t realize they should and could get involved.
Engaging the public through creative events is one way to raise awareness. It also opens the door to many more people contributing their own ideas to shark conservation as they apply their talents to the cause.
The Malibu Artist’s expert drone skills open a window into the behavior of our sharks and whales of Southern California.
Sharks LIVE!
Every year during Shark Week, Even Keel Tattoo puts their talents to work, all in the name of protecting sharks.
Even Keel Tattoo Shark Weekend
Sharks come to our cities in a series of awesome, large scale paintings with interactive components.
Shark Mural Series
Get involved
Everyone can make a difference; it doesn't matter your location, age, skillset, or occupation.
We get asked all the time, “How do I get into shark conservation?”, “What jobs are out there that get me closer to the ocean?”, “Where do I go to intern or volunteer in the field?”.
The growing interest people have in focusing their energies towards ocean and shark conservation is extremely encouraging. For the individuals, it can be very frustrating, though. It is hard to know where to start. But do not despair, there are many different ways to approach your goals.
First, you will want to determine which part of conservation you are interested in. Is it research? Advocacy? Media creation? There’s no such thing as “just” being a shark conservationist—there are many different skill sets that lead to jobs. They could be more closely related to engineering, construction, or the creative arts than they may be to marine biology. So don’t have tunnel vision on that aspect.
For volunteer work, we have worked with people who were professionals in other fields—graphic designers, fundraisers, salespeople. The question to answer is: what can you do in your field that could help? Sometimes it’s more valuable to apply your specific talent to conservation. In general, it is best not to think of “advocacy” as a job description. It’s a broad field. To be effective doesn’t necessarily require an academic approach. (But all campaigns do need experts). Sometimes, practical experience is so much more important. Get to know your local non-profits and the kind of work they do. If something resonates, reach out and help. Even if it isn’t your dream cause, getting some experience working with non-profits can be very useful. I also helps you get to know the advocacy network and how groups collaborate.
Working alongside scientists and researchers is probably the trickiest request of them all. The work is often highly technical and doesn’t leave a lot of room for untrained volunteers. Actual boat time with sharks is also not easy to come by. Most advocacy work for sharks doesn’t actually take place in the ocean, and even graduate students who specialize in sharks have few projects to choose from that actually get them into the water with sharks.
Look for an educational or research institution near you that has a marine program and reach out for their guidance.