Cetos Research LLC Surveys & Environmental Work
 Cetos
LLC has performed 3 vessel based monitoring surveys to
date. We run the surveys from start to finish; we set up
all logistics including vessel charters, arrange the team
of trained marine mammal observers (MMOs), write and submit
study designs in advance, and we follow up after the survey
with detailed reports, some of which have led to peer reviewed
publications. Our 3 offshore surveys were in waters between
Kauai and Niihau, in waters between Maui and the Big Island
, and the east side of the Big Island, and in the waters
between Oahu and Molokai.
Our experienced scientists are trained in survey techniques,
(visual and/or acoustic), mitigation and monitoring protocols,
species identification, and are familiar with the requirements
of environmental documentation, knowledgeable with regard
to natural resource laws, NEPA, ESA and MMPA consultations,
etc. We can provide supporting documents, perform environmental
analyses, etc. Please contact us at (207) 266-6252 to discuss
what services we can provide.
Our first survey yielded new (previously unknown) locations for minke
whales in Hawaiian waters, resulting in a publication (Pacific
Science, Vol. 61). Two of our recent surveys, in addition
to providing additional new sighting data for whales in
previously unknown locations, were done in conjunction
with U.S. Navy training exercises occurring in Hawaiian
waters. Our MMOs successfully gathered data and assessed potential marine
mammal reactions in real time. These surveys are in compliance with NOAA
Fisheries Biological Opinion documents. Marine mammal sightings recorded
during surveys and findings, along with Cetos’s
recommendations for future work were compiled in reports.
These reports are not currently publicly available; however,
our recommendations have been utilized in subsequent Monitoring
Plans and findings will be available in the near future. Survey vessels
include the R/V Dariabar or
M/V Searcher. (see photo above).
Photos by J.Jacobson & L. Mazzuca
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