MARQUE Z ; 



A moratorium may be the least complicated way to 

 approach the conservation of sea turtles. 



Many of us had worked with models, but reliable 

 data on which to base these models are needed. 

 The size at maturation or first breeding for most 

 sea turtle populations is still unknown. Some 

 estimates have been made on the various sources of 

 mortality. This information can be used in models 

 to help determine the most useful management 

 options. 



N. Frazer's model is very logical, but how can 

 fishermen be made to understand it? If you were 

 to tell them to take only small turtles, they 

 would laugh. Most fishermen will take a turtle if 

 they come across one. They use the turtles for 

 food. It would be very difficult to apply these 

 models in most of our countries. 



MROSOVSKY: 



RICHARDSON : 



In Mexico, people now are more aware of the 

 decline in sea turtle populations. This 

 information appeared on television and radio and 

 in the newspapers. All the fishermen know that 

 taking sea turtles is prohibited, but they still 

 will take one home to eat if they see one. 



Emphasis should be on positive actions rather than 

 saying that people can't take turtles. The 

 economic value of the resource should be explained 

 to show people what benefits they will derive from 

 the resource. The scheme in Costa Rica is very 

 practical. 



Decision makers have an enormous responsibility 

 with turtle conservation. The need for being very 

 conservative at this stage should be stressed. 

 Scientists do not have all the data required to 

 make the models totally predictable. Managers 

 will still have to rely on their intuition 

 somewhat. Other values such as esthetics should 

 be considered in this model as well. Other social 

 values should also be considered. 



POLANCO ; 



Implementing fishery management regulations is a 

 conservation technique. Actions should be based 

 on the best available data, and efforts to develop 

 adequate data bases must be continued. Full 

 consideration to new techniques in the area of 

 conservation should be given. 



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