3.10 Marine Species
state. Studies include identifcation of population trends, as well as assessment of conser- vation or development activities. Tese eforts will inform species and habitat management decisions. Long-term monitoring sites need to be identifed and monitoring protocols developed for all priority species. Monitoring plans should be coordinated with other exist- ing monitoring programs where feasible. Research. Research topics that facilitate appropriate conservation actions include habitat use and preferences, reproductive behavior, fecundity, population dynamics and genetics, feeding, competition, and food web dynamics. Increased understanding of the life histories and status helps determine the vulnerability of priority species to further imperilment, in addition to identifying possibilities for improved management and conservation. All stud- ies should provide recommendations for mitigation and restoration for priority species. Formal descriptions for known or putative undescribed species and investigations aimed at resolving taxonomic status are needed. • Conduct genetics research to further understand stock structure and breeding popu- lation contributions in North Carolina and beyond, especially for Bottlenose Dolphin, Pilot Whale, and Loggerhead and Green sea turtles.
• Examine pollution efects on coastal and estuarine species.
Management Practices. Management practices that reduce impacts and work synergis- tically with other conservation actions are needed to enhance the resilience of natural resources. Particular needs include preserving biodiversity, protecting native populations and their habitats, and improving degraded habitats. In addition, education about, and reg- ulation and prevention of the introduction and spread of exotic or invasive species are vital.
• Support the implementation of FMPs to manage and protect marine species.
• Implement public education and other eforts to reduce discarded “ghost” fshing gear to reduce marine species entanglement; potential development of a fshing line recycling program (potential to model from Florida’s existing monoflament recycling program). • Improve communications and coordination with other NOAA ofces, state and federal marine resource agencies, and universities to combat common threats and develop ef- cient and efective conservation strategies for all marine species and their habitats. Conservation Programs and Partnerships. Conservation programs, incentives, and partnerships should be utilized to the fullest extent to preserve high-quality resources and protect important natural communities. Protective measures that utilize existing regula- tory frameworks to protect habitats and species should be incorporated where applicable.
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2015 NC Wildlife Action Plan
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