Conservation Plan 2022-24 - SAFE Sharks & Rays January 2022 - Assets ...
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SAFE Sharks & Rays
Conservation Plan 2022-24
January 2022
SAFE Sharks & Rays Conservation Plan 2022-24_V2_January 2022 1
I. Background & Introduction Sharks and their relatives, skates and rays (Class: Chondrichthyes, Subclass: Elasmobranchii), form one of the most fascinating and charismatic groups of marine wildlife. Globally, there are over 1200 species reflecting a huge diversity in biology, behavior and habitat. Sharks face anthropogenic challenges common to all wildlife. But the overwhelming conservation threat to the group arises from destructive fishing practices. Inadequate governance and ineffective fisheries management is enabling the depletion of populations across the world’s ocean. The first global assessment of the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List status in 2014 estimated that one-quarter of sharks and rays were threatened with extinction. A re- assessment produced in 2021, as an output of the Global Shark Trends Project estimated this figure to be over one-third of 1199 species (see below)1. © Image Shark Trust – based on Dulvy et al., 2021, Current Biology 31, 4773–47871 Shark and ray fisheries operate at national, regional and international scale and support complex global markets as well as local community economies. Effective conservation requires coordinated action on a global scale. This Conservation Plan details how we can use AZA institutions’ unique position, access and knowledge base to engage in the global collaborative effort to secure a positive future for sharks and rays through a science-based approach to conservation. SAFE Sharks & Rays Conservation Plan 2022-24_V2_January 2022 2
Please Note – Throughout this Conservation Plan, reference to “sharks” or “sharks and rays” may be used as shorthand for the entire elasmobranch group: sharks, skates and rays (Class: Chondrichthyes, Subclass: Elasmobranchii). The actions within the conservation plan encompass all shark, skate and ray (elasmobranch) species unless specified otherwise. This conservation plan does not include actions for the chimaera (Class: Chondricthyes, Subclass: Holocephali). SAFE Sharks & Rays Conservation Plan 2022-24_V2_January 2022 3
A. Table of contents
I. Background & Introduction 2
A. Table of contents 4
B. SAFE Sharks & Rays 3-Year Program Goal 5
C. Program Operational Structure 6
D. Conservation Target 11
E. Status of Taxon within the AZA Community 12
1. Numbers of Sharks and Rays cared for in AZA accredited facilities 12
2. Regional Collection Plan Data 13
F. AZA Conservation Activities 13
1. Field conservation 13
2. Mission-focused research 15
G. AZA Public Engagement Activities 16
II. Species Status 16
A. Conservation Status of Taxa 16
B. Recovery Plan 18
1. Existing Initiatives 18
2. Aligning the SAFE Sharks and Rays Program 20
C. Threats 21
1. Lack of Population Data 21
2. Need for Policy and Legislation 21
3. Lack of Commitment to Sustainable Fisheries 21
4. Misaligned Public Attitudes 22
III. Strategic Objectives 23
A. Conservation 23
B. Stakeholder & Public Engagement 23
C. Public Awareness & Communications 23
D. Fundraising Objective 24
IV. Program Summary Table (Include Objectives and Actions) 25
A. Conservation Objectives 25
B. Stakeholder & Public Engagement Objectives 32
C. Public Awareness & Communications Objectives 45
D. Fundraising Objectives 51
V. References 56
SAFE Sharks & Rays Conservation Plan 2022-24_V2_January 2022 4B. SAFE Sharks & Rays 3-Year Program Goal
The overarching goal is to integrate AZA SAFE Sharks & Rays into existing global collaborative efforts
to safeguard shark and ray populations. It will use AZA institutions’ unique position, access and
knowledge base to:
• expand relationships, close data gaps, and enhance understanding of species biology
and ecology to enable evidence-based support for conservation action.
• promote meaningful change and engage positive action among key public and stakeholder
groups.
• drive a change of narrative in shark conservation – supporting communication that is
engaging, directed, and aligned with the goals of science-based shark conservation.
• create opportunities for AZA facilities and private partners to provide support in the most
direct, impactful, and collaborative process for conservation of this taxa.
SAFE Sharks & Rays Conservation Plan 2022-24_V2_January 2022 5C. Program Operational Structure
SAFE Sharks & Rays Program Operational Structure
Role Representative Institution Contact Information
Program Hap Fatzinger North Carolina 900 Loggerhead Road
Leader (Director) Aquarium at Fort Kure Beach, NC 28449
Fisher hap.fatzinger@ncaquariums.com
910-772-0502
Vice Paul Cox Shark Trust 4 Creykes Court, The Millfields,
Program (Managing Director) Plymouth, UK.
Leader paul@sharktrust.org
+44-1752-672020
Secretary Danni Logue Jenkinson’s 300 Ocean Avenue
(Animal Welfare Program Aquarium Point Pleasant Beach, NJ 08742
Coordinator) Danni.logue@jenkinsons.com
908-309-7205
Steering Beth Firchau AZA Conservation 8403 Colesville Rd, Suite 710
Committee (Conservation Project Coordinator Silver Springs, MD 20910
Coordinator) bfirchau@aza.org
757-434-0745
Dr. Jim Wharton Seattle Aquarium 1483 Alaskan Way
(Director of Conservation Seattle, WA 98101
Engagement and Learning) j.wharton@seattleaquarium.org
206-375-1195
Matt Seguin Mote Marine 1600 Ken Thompson Pkwy
(Curator of Husbandry and Laboratory and Sarasota, Fl 34236
Records) Aquarium mattseguin@mote.org
941-388-4441 ext. 678
Jennie Janssen National Aquarium 501 E Pratt St
(Assistant Curator of Blue Baltimore, MD 21202
Wonders) Jjanssen@aqua.org
410-986-2327
Dr. Steve Kessel Shedd Aquarium 1200S Lakeshore Dr
(Director of Marine Chicago, IL 60605
Research) skessel@sheddaquarium.org
312-692-3191
SAFE Sharks & Rays Conservation Plan 2022-24_V2_January 2022 6Dr. Al Dove Georgia Aquarium 225 Baker St. NW
(Vice President of Science Atlanta, GA 30313
and Education) adove@georgiaaquarium.org
404-581-4364
Hans Walters WCS/NY Aquarium 602 Surf Avenue
(Animal Supervisor and Brooklyn, NY 11224
Field Scientist) hwalters@wcs.org
718-265-2666
Erin McCombs Aquarium of the 100 Aquarium Way
(Education Supervisor) Pacific Long Beach, CA 90802
emccombs@lbaop.org
562-951-5383
Kelli Cadenas SEA LIFE Orlando 8449 International Drive
(Curator) Orlando, FL 32819
Kelli.cadenas@merlinentertainme
nts.biz
443-934-0888
Role Representative Institution Contact Information
WCC Dr. Julianne Passarelli Cabrillo Marine julianne.passarelli@lacity.org
Liaison (Education and Collections Aquarium
Curator)
Program Liz Hann Adventure Aquarium ehann@adventureaquarium.com
Partners (Collections and
Conservation Manager)
Katie King Aquarium of the kking@auduboninstitute.org
Americas
Jennifer Rawlings Riverbanks Zoo & jrawlings@riverbanks.org
(Aquarium Curator) Garden
Debbi Stone Florida Aquarium dstone@flaquarium.org
(Senior Vice President of
Engagement and Learning)
SAFE Sharks & Rays Conservation Plan 2022-24_V2_January 2022 7Stacia White Ripley’s Aquarium sweaver@ripleys.com
(Assistant Director of Myrtle Beach
Husbandry)
Sandi Schaefer-Padgett Maritime Aquarium sschaefer@Maritimeaquarium.org
(Senior Aquarist)
Alexa Delaune Mississippi adelaune@msaquarium.org
(Vice President of Aquarium
Veterinary Services and
Research)
Windy Arey-Kent NC Aquarium Pine windy.arey-
(Education Curator) Knoll Shores kent@ncaquariums.com
Shawn Harper NC Aquarium shawn.harper@ncaquariums.com
(Diving Safety Officer) Roanoke Island
John Mandelman New England jmandelman@neaq.org
(Vice President & Chief Aquarium
Scientist)
Becca Thomas SEA LIFE Charlotte Rebecca.Thomas3@merlinenterta
(Curator) inments.biz
Tricia Pettitt Shark Reef tpettitt@mandalaybay.com
(Education Manager) Aquarium at
Mandalay Bay
Skylar Snowden Virginia Aquarium SkSnowden@virginiaaquarium.or
(Senior Curator of Fishes, g
Invertebrates and
Herpetology)
Becky Duchild Minnesota Zoo becky.duchild@state.mn.us
(Aquarist)
Bart Shepherd California Academy bshepherd@calacademy.org
(Senior Director) of Sciences
Jose Bacallao Cabrillo Marine jose.bacallao@lacity.org
(Director of Exhibits) Aquarium
SAFE Sharks & Rays Conservation Plan 2022-24_V2_January 2022 8Greg Whittaker Moody Gardens gwhittaker@moodygardens.org
(Animal Husbandry
Manager)
Caroline Emch-Wei Audubon Aqaurium Cemchwei@auduboninstitute.org
(Senior Aquarist) of the Americas
Role Representative Institution Contact Information
Advisors Dr. Nick Dulvy Simon Fraser dulvy@sfu.ca
(Conservation Action University
Planning Advisor)
Max Janse Burgers Zoo m.janse@burgerszoo.nl
(EAZA/EUAC Advisor)
Sonja Fordham Shark Advocates sonja@sharkadvocates.org
(Policy and Advocacy
Advisor)
Mark Smith Adelaide Zoo MarkSmith@zoossa.com.au
(ZAA Advisor)
Dr. Linda Penfold South-East Zoo Linda.penfold@sezarc.com
(Reproductive Alliance for
Advisor/CPSG Facilitator) Reproduction and
Conservation
(SEZARC)
Dr. Kira Mileham IUCN SSC Strategic kira.mileham@ssc.iucn.org
(IUCN Strategic Partnerships
Partnerships Advisor)
Dr. Lisa Hoopes Georgia Aquarium lhoopes@georgiaaquarium.org
(IUCN SSG, Aquarium
Working Group Advisor)
Tony Niemann Tracks tony@zierniemann.com
(Data Management Advisor) Software/Zier
Niemann Consulting
SAFE Sharks & Rays Conservation Plan 2022-24_V2_January 2022 9Karin Stratton Independent Kstratton2020@gmail.com
(Sustainable Seafood Consultant
Advisor)
Dr. Gavin Naylor University of Florida gnaylor@flmnh.ufl.edu
(Elasmobranch Genomics
Advisor)
Dr. Natalie Mylniczenko The Walt Disney Natalie.Mylniczenko@disney.com
(Blood Project Advisor) Company
Jill Arnold ZooQuatic jarnold@zooauqticlab.com
(Blood Project Advisor) Laboratory, LLC
Dr. Rob Jones The Aquarium Vet rob@theaquariumvet.com
(Elasmobranch Veterinary
Health Advisor)
Dr. Kevin Feldheim Field Museum kfeldheim@fieldmuseum.org
(Elasmobranch Genetics
Advisor)
Jillian Morris Sharks4Kids jillian@sharks4kids.com
(Public Awareness Advisor)
Role Representative Institution Contact Information
TAG Marine Fish TAG Chair, Dallas Zoo and paula@dwazoo.com
Advisors Paula Carlson Aquarium
(Director of Husbandry)
FW Fish TAG Chair, Houston Zoo gbrandy@houstonzoo.org
George Brandy
(Aquarium Curator)
SAFE Sharks & Rays Conservation Plan 2022-24_V2_January 2022 10D. Conservation Target
The SAFE Sharks & Rays program adopts a holistic approach to the conservation of all 1200+ shark
and ray species, supporting and integrating with the goals of science-based conservation.
While species specific initiatives will be encouraged and incorporated into the actions of the program,
these will be conspicuously linked to the wider goals. Collection animals are viewed as ambassadors
for the group and provide a connection to the wider conservation issues. But there is not necessarily
a requirement to display species highlighted in program actions.
The broad species focus adopted by this Conservation Plan necessitates a very tight focus on where
the AZA community can best produce a meaningful impact on the conservation of shark and ray
species. The target therefore is to establish AZA as an influential advocate for science-based shark
conservation. AZA institutions will be empowered and equipped to bring their unique strengths to bear
in the collaborative effort for sharks and rays, building upon:
I. The unique connection with, and influence over, a broad group of non-specialist public
audiences: Enabling credible communication of shark conservation priorities and solutions.
II. The wealth of experience caring for a diversity of sharks in a closed setting: Providing
invaluable veterinary skills, techniques and datasets to support positive outcomes for animals
involved in in-situ conservation.
III. The respect and position within wider communities: Enabling targeted behavior change actions
with key stakeholder groups.
SAFE Sharks & Rays Conservation Plan 2022-24_V2_January 2022 11E. Status of Taxon within the AZA Community
Sharks and rays are some of the most charismatic and loved animals in aquarium collections.
They are a major draw that pulls visitors into a fascination with the wider underwater world.
Having sharks and rays for conservation educational purposes at AZA member facilities is an
invaluable opportunity to illustrate our planet’s biological diversity, to explore the wonders of the global
ocean, and to emphasize the delicate balance necessary for healthy ecosystems. The valuation of
sharks and rays to the mission of our AZA member facilities can be evidenced by:
1. Numbers of Sharks and Rays cared for in AZA accredited facilities
All elasmobranchs within AZA animal collections are under the management purview of the Marine
Fishes Taxonomic Advisory Group (MFTAG) or the Freshwater Fishes Taxonomic Advisory Group
(FFTAG). As of 2020, 12 species are managed as Species Survival Programs (SSPs) within their
respective TAGs.
Common Name Scientific Name Family IUCN Status
Marine Fish Bowmouth Rhina Rhinidae Critically
TAG SSPs guitarfish ancylostoma Endangered
Spotted eagle Aetobatus Aetobatidae Endangered
ray narinari
Largetooth Pristis pristis Pristidae Critically
sawfish Endangered
Longcomb Pristis zijsron Pristidae Critically
sawfish Endangered
Smalltooth Pristis pectinata Pristidae Critically
sawfish Endangered
Blacktip reef Carcharhinus Carcharhinidae Vulnerable
shark melanopterus
Sand tiger shark Carcharias Odontaspididae Critically
taurus Endangered
Zebra shark Stegostoma Stegostomidae Endangered
tigrinum
Freshwater Bigtooth river Potamotrygon Potamotrygonidae Least
Fish TAG stingray henlei Concern
SSPs Ocellated river Potamotrygon Potamotrygonidae Data
stingray motoro Deficient
Tiger river Potamotrygon Potamotrygonidae Endangered
stingray tigrina
White-blotched Potamotrygon Potamotrygonidae Data
river stingray leopoldi Deficient
In October of 2020, SAFE Sharks & Rays worked with the TAGs to review existing Regional
Collection Plans (RCPs) and identify all elasmobranchs within AZA collections. Data for the
FFTAG was gathered from the 2019 RCP and the MFTAG was compiled from the 2007 RCP (the
most comprehensive space survey data available).
SAFE Sharks & Rays Conservation Plan 2022-24_V2_January 2022 122. Regional Collection Plan Data
Representing: FFTAG MFTAG
Individuals 538 4598
Species 10 (plus 3 99
unconfirmed/hybrid)
Orders 1 11
Families 2 21
Genus 3 53
Additionally, a 2020 query of the AZA SAFE Sharks and Rays International Census of
Chondrichthyans in Human Care (ChondroCensus) documented 136 chondrichthyan species
within AZA institutions. This represents a 24% increase in the number of shark and ray species
cared for by AZA facilities.
Sharks and rays require an advanced care and welfare practices skillset of staff, a sophisticated
institutional life support infrastructure, a planned financial investment, and, in some cases,
complex habitat square footage for successful long-term care. These needs do not come cheaply
or without thoughtful planning and commitment. The increase in the number of species illustrates
the importance of sharks and rays to the conservation and environmental education missions of
AZA member facilities and illustrates continual improvement in husbandry and understanding of
species biology.
F. AZA Conservation Activities
1. Field conservation
Sharks and rays are in the company of Asian elephants, gorillas, lions, penguins and giraffe in
terms of institutional investment. They are recognized as perennially high-valued, favorited,
species. Since 2017, AZA’s Annual Report on Conservation and Science (ARCS) notes that AZA
member facilities have invested over $14M to support field conservation efforts focused on sharks
and rays. This support has been provided by 59 member institutions working with 92 project
partners and continues to grow annually (excluding 2020 due to COVID-19 pandemic).
Collectively, this annual support for sharks and rays ranks among the top two or three of SAFE
focused conservation programs over the past 4 years.
SAFE Sharks & Rays Conservation Plan 2022-24_V2_January 2022 13AZA ARCS Shark & Ray Field Conservation: 2017-2020
Totals: 2017-
Species 2017 2018 2019 2020
2020
Sharks
Basking Shark $8,000 - - $60,000 $68,000
Blacknose Shark $72,000 $64,000 $84,000 $157,000 $377,000
Blacktip Reef Shark $2,000 $14,000 - - $16,000
Bonnethead Shark $2,000 $20,000 - - $22,000
Broadnose Sevengill
Shark $300 $10,000 - - $10,300
Bull Shark $17,000 $10,000 - - $27,000
Epaulette Shark - - - $62,000 $62,000
Great White Shark $857,000 $786,000 $1,096,000 $159,000 $2,898,000
Hammerhead Shark $120,000 $144,000 $203,000 $127,000 $594,000
Nurse Shark - - - $62,000 $62,000
Oceanic Whitetip Shark $21,000 $13,000 $81,000 $94,000 $209,000
Reef Shark - - - $25,000 $25,000
Sand Tiger Shark $106,000 $242,000 $284,000 $169,000 $801,000
Sandbar Shark $72,000 $64,000 $84,000 $157,000 $377,000
Sixgill Shark $3,000 $1,000 - - $4,000
Whale Shark $147,000 $66,000 $202,000 - $415,000
Whitespotted Bamboo
Shark $11,000 $4,000 $4,000 - $19,000
Zebra Shark - - - $48,000 $48,000
Shark (Species
Unspecified) $1,117,000 $1,740,000 $1,852,000 $1,195,000 $5,904,000
Rays
Cownose Ray - $27,000 - - $27,000
Largetooth Sawfish $100 $2,000 $31,000 $8,000 $41,100
Longcomb Sawfish $100 $2,000 $6,000 $8,000 $16,100
Manta Ray $58,000 $192,000 $38,000 $52,000 $340,000
Smalltooth Sawfish $55,000 $57,000 $31,000 $8,000 $151,000
Southern Stingray $11,000 $4,000 $4,000 - $19,000
Spinetail Mobula $32,000 $73,000 - $13,000 $118,000
Spotted Eagle Ray $72,000 $74,000 $96,000 $95,000 $337,000
Ray (Species
Unspecified) $237,000 $262,000 $395,000 $179,000 $1,073,000
Total: Sharks $2,555,300 $3,178,000 $3,890,000 $2,315,000 $11,938,300
Total: Rays $465,200 $693,000 $601,000 $363,000 $2,122,200
Grand Total $3,020,500 $3,871,000 $4,491,000 $2,678,000 $14,060,500
Nearly half of the funding was focused on field conservation efforts for 26 species of sharks and
rays while the remaining was for unspecified species.
SAFE Sharks & Rays Conservation Plan 2022-24_V2_January 2022 142. Mission-focused research
A commitment to scientific advancement through research studies, both basic and applied, is a
trademark of the modern zoological park and aquarium. Animal care, health, and welfare (52%)
were the AZA community’s most common areas of research followed by basic biology (18%).
Shark & Ray Research: 2017-2020
Totals: 2017-
Species 2017 2018 2019 2020
2020
Sharks
Bonnethead Shark $7,000 - - - $7,000
Broadnose Sevengill Shark - $11,000 $18,000 $19,000 $48,000
Epaulette Shark - - $1,000 - $1,000
Great White Shark - - $8,000 - $8,000
Lemon Shark - - $6,000 - $6,000
Leopard Shark - $18,000 $20,000 - $38,000
Sand Tiger Shark $110,000 $244,000 $154,000 $149,000 $657,000
Sandbar Shark - - $8,000 $250 $8,250
Sixgill Shark $12,000 $2,000 $250 $250 $14,500
Swell Shark - $18,000 $20,000 - $38,000
Whale Shark - $108,000 - $155,000 $263,000
Whitespotted Bamboo
Shark $800 $4,000 - - $4,800
Zebra Shark - - - $50 $50
Shark (Species Unspecified) $600,000 $604,000 $823,000 $157,000 $2,184,000
Rays
Cownose Ray $20,000 $21,000 $15,000 $28,000 $84,000
Largetooth Sawfish $200 - $145 - $345
Longcomb Sawfish - - $145 - $145
Manta Ray - $73,000 - $5,000 $78,000
Smalltooth Sawfish - - $145 - $145
Southern Stingray $3,000 $5,000 $500 $3,000 $11,500
Spotted Eagle Ray $18,000 $13,000 $8,000 $8,000 $47,000
Yellow Stingray $500 - $3,000 $400 $3,900
Ray (Species Unspecified) $633,000 $552,000 $775,000 $246,000 $2,206,000
Total: Sharks $729,800 $1,009,000 $1,058,250 $480,550 $3,277,600
Total: Rays $674,700 $664,000 $801,935 $290,400 $2,431,035
Grand Total $1,404,500 $1,673,000 $1,860,185 $770,950 $5,708,635
Together, these two disciplines comprised more than two-thirds of the AZA community’s research.
Other research explored species and habitat conservation (focused primarily on populations in the
wild or those being prepared for reintroduction into the wild, 17%), sustainable animal collections
(focused primarily on populations held in human care, 10%) and conservation education and public
engagement (3%)2.
SAFE Sharks & Rays Conservation Plan 2022-24_V2_January 2022 15Mission-focused research contributions increased each year (excluding 2020) with a total of nearly
$6M from 2017-2020.
G. AZA Public Engagement Activities
A public engagement survey was carried out under the first SAFE Sharks & Rays Conservation Plan
in 2017. Responses from 83 institutions (42 Aquariums, 41 Zoos) were collected and analyzed3. While
73% aquariums and zoos included sharks or rays within the living collection, over 85% of institutions
incorporated shark and ray content within their exhibitions or programming. These include live
interpretive programs, camps, outreach and video content.
Institutions are using sharks and rays in developing wider educational themes and visitor actions
around sustainable seafood, pollution, destructive fisheries practices, in-situ conservation, policy
action and citizen science. Responses indicated a broad range of engagement on shark and ray topics
and partnerships with a range of NGO’s. But over half of the institutions had not, in 2017, identified
formal shark conservation messages.
Subsequently, in consultation with researchers and conservation NGO’s, the SAFE Sharks and Rays
Public Engagement team developed a suite of core messages and began the process of
communicating these with institutions in the AZA network. The core messages form the armature for
a messaging framework (to be completed in the new CAP). This will organize exhibit and interpretive
materials, academic and expert resources. It will also encourage the development of institution-
specific messages and collect them in a clearinghouse for general use. Supporting these themes, the
team have coordinated, promoted, and distributed a suite of activities and tools to enable AZA
institutions to engage with Shark and Ray Awareness Day (July 14) since 2018.
II. Species Status
A. Conservation Status of Taxa
The first global assessment of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) in 2014
estimated that one-quarter of the 1000+ shark and ray species were threatened with extinction
(classified as critically endangered, endangered or vulnerable according to the criteria of the IUCN
Red List of Threatened Species), making sharks the most threatened vertebrate lineage after
amphibians3.
Caught and landed for meat, fins and a range of other products, catches of sharks and rays were
estimated to have peaked at between 63 and 273 million per year in the early part of the century. This
number has now declined, due to overfishing. But fishing for sharks continues, in many cases in the
absence of adequate management and science-based catch limits. A 2021 study of oceanic shark
species estimated a population decline of 71% over the last half century with 24 out of 31 species now
threatened according to IUCN Red List criteria4.
SAFE Sharks & Rays Conservation Plan 2022-24_V2_January 2022 16The Global Shark Trends Project (GSTP)5 undertook a full review of the taxa as a follow-up to the 2014 assessment, with a particular focus on resolving the large number (almost 50%) of species assessed as Data Deficient in 2015. As a result, the estimate of the proportion of the taxa classed as threatened has been updated from one-quarter to one-third1. SAFE Sharks & Rays Conservation Plan 2022-24_V2_January 2022 17
B. Recovery Plan
1. Existing Initiatives
In 2015, the Global Shark and Ray Initiative (GSRI), a
partnership between, Wildlife Conservation Society
(WCS), World Wildlife Fund for Nature (WWF),
TRAFFIC, Shark Trust, Shark Advocates International
and the IUCN Shark Specialist Group, published the
results of an in-depth assessment of the global status
of shark and ray populations and the shark
conservation sector.
As a follow-up to this review, GSRI published a 10-year
action plan Global Priorities for Conserving Sharks and
Rays6. The plan's goal was that “by 2025, the
conservation status of the world’s sharks and rays has
improved – declines have been halted, extinctions have
been prevented, and commitments to their
conservation have increased globally.”
The detailed action plan sets out specific actions for global collaborative effort targeting:
Saving Shark and Ray Species
• Ensure strict national protection for endangered species.
• Ensure that multilateral environmental agreements (MEAs) and marine protected areas
(MPAs) effectively address the species that fall under their remit and generate positive
outcomes for shark and ray species more generally.
• Gather and analyze data.
Managing Shark and Ray Fisheries for Sustainability
• Support effective implementation of Shark International Plans of Action (IPOA), including
the development and implementation of comprehensive, frequently reviewed National
Plans of Action (NPOA), science-based catch limits, and strong compliance mechanisms
by top shark-catching countries.
• Encourage the national implementation of conservation commitments contained in
international agreements, with a focus on Regional Fisheries Management Organizations
(RFMOs), Conventions on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), and
Convention on Migratory Species (CMS).
• Facilitate science-based fishery management at national and sub-national levels, through
the provision of technical assistance and other means of support.
SAFE Sharks & Rays Conservation Plan 2022-24_V2_January 2022 18• Investigate and promote means to minimize incidental fishing mortality of sharks and rays.
• Develop and promote new models for sustainable shark and ray fisheries and foster
transitioning to sustainability.
• Improve the collection, reporting, and analysis of information to guide improved fisheries
management.
• Foster enabling conditions for positive change in shark and ray fisheries management.
Ensuring Responsible Trade in Shark and Ray Products
• Support CITES implementation through improvements to governance frameworks, trade
control implementation, data collection, traceability, and identification of products in trade,
and promote such improvements for all shark and ray species that are caught and traded.
• Identify – and bring to the attention of both authorities and consumers – additional at-risk
species in trade and encourage CITES, regional and/or national controls on trade in the
relevant shark and ray products.
• Improve trade-monitoring methods to ensure accurate information is submitted to Regional
Fisheries Bodies (RFBs) and Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) by priority trading
countries/territories.
• Produce evidence – using controlled trials – that a traceability system for shark and ray
products can be practically and cost-effectively implemented from boat to market,
generating necessary support for regulations by the use of traceability systems which
make use of detailed labeling, tagging and other methods.
Encouraging Responsible Consumption of Shark and Ray Products
• Generate multi-level action plans, targeting different consumer groups and priority
markets, will be necessary to achieve responsible consumption of shark and ray fins, meat,
gill plates, squalene, and freshwater stingrays.
Subsequent to the publication of the GSRI strategy, the Shark Conservation Fund (SCF)7, a
philanthropic collaborative, was established in 2016 to address the shark and ray crisis. Founding
members are Paul G. Allen Philanthropies, Paul M. Angell Family Foundation, Leonardo DiCaprio
Foundation, The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust and Oceans 5. The SCF focuses
on halting the overexploitation of the world’s sharks and rays, preventing extinctions, reversing
declines and restoring populations. SCF was established to support a comprehensive array of
projects centered around 3 core objectives:
• Regulating global trade
• Protecting the most endangered species
• Combatting unsustainable fisheries
These two major global initiatives are working closely together, bringing together a plethora of
international initiatives from a diverse collection of NGO’s, scientists and interest groups behind a
coordinated and collaborative endeavor to address the global shark and ray conservation
challenge.
SAFE Sharks & Rays Conservation Plan 2022-24_V2_January 2022 192. Aligning the SAFE Sharks and Rays Program The SAFE Sharks & Rays Program aligns with the goals of GSRI and SCF and will provide a means to integrate AZA institutions into the existing global collaborative effort to safeguard shark and ray populations. With GSRI Core Partner representation on both Steering Committee and Policy Working Group, the SAFE Sharks & Rays Steering Committee will ensure that SAFE programs support and complement the work of GSRI partners and the wider network. A review of the GSRI strategy is being conducted, assessing progress against the 2015 goals and developing a revised action plan to 2030. The outputs from this review will be incorporated into this conservation plan. The SAFE program will face head-on the challenge of advancing the narrative around shark and ray conservation, using the significant communication power of AZA institutions to align our audiences behind the broader goals of the GSRI and SCF and engaging support for science-based shark conservation. Additionally, the SAFE Program will seek opportunities to advance and support innovative conservation strategies that take advantage of the unique expertise within AZA institutions. SAFE Sharks & Rays Conservation Plan 2022-24_V2_January 2022 20
C. Threats
For the majority of species, the primary threat is over-exploitation and destructive fishing practices.
Unsustainable and uncontrolled fisheries operating in national and international waters is at the heart
of the continuing pressure placed on almost all shark and ray populations. This situation is exacerbated
by:
1. Lack of Population Data
Many government agencies and non-governmental organizations are involved in ongoing study of
patterns of shark diversity, abundance, threat, and conservation solutions. But globally there are
still species that are data deficient. These populations are found particularly in the Caribbean Sea
and Western Central Atlantic Ocean, Eastern Central Atlantic Ocean, Southwest Indian Ocean,
and the China seas (Figure 2 from SAFE CAP). This information is needed to complete IUCN Red
List Assessments which in turn will allow prioritization of conservation efforts. And the ability to
highlight shark populations that are increasing, stable, or declining. Abundant and reliable data
enable science-based conservation planning and provide the evidence needed to support policy
advocacy. Through a science-based approach we will be able to develop effective management
actions to conserve this valuable group of animals.
2. Need for Policy and Legislation
Policy initiatives involving species and habitat protection, fisheries management and trade
regulation play a vital role in shark and ray conservation. These actions include but are not limited
to globally defining species-specific population level targets, establishing take limit quotas for both
commercial and recreational shark fishing practices, creating legislation for identifying illegal
exploitation practices, marine protected area (MPA) designation and implementing enforcement
measures. The United States National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and
international agencies have historically recommended a variety of domestic and international policy
and regulatory actions to achieve sustainable shark populations, however adoption and
implementation of many of these is still needed.
3. Lack of Commitment to Sustainable Fisheries
Many, but not all, shark and ray species are unsuitable for commercial fisheries exploitation. But
sustainable shark fisheries do exist and are possible8. Identifying and implementing suitable
fisheries regulations for all species requires international commitment to the principle of sustainable
fishing practices. Whether consuming shark products or not, public support for the principles of
sustainability can be an important tool in shark conservation. Sustainability is driven by effective
fisheries regulations and management actions, that draw on scientific evidence in decision making,
transparent supply chains and responsible consumer choices. Unsustainable consumption of all
seafood needs to be addressed. A commitment to sustainable practice across the board will help
the drastic decline of shark populations to be arrested.
SAFE Sharks & Rays Conservation Plan 2022-24_V2_January 2022 214. Misaligned Public Attitudes Media portrayals of sharks is frequently subject to exaggeration and misrepresentation. Negative shark-human interactions and a focus on a narrow group of species influence the wider public perception of the group. A recent study of movies featuring sharks found that 96% overtly portrayed sharks as a threat to humans8. Further, popular shark documentaries have a tendency to focus on a limited and unrepresentative scope of research methods and professional diversity (both gender and ethnic diversity10). The impact of the resultant public attitudes on the wider conservation of sharks is unproven but is widely anticipated to be a factor in engaging support for conservation efforts. Recently, attention has turned to the media portrayal of conservation solutions for sharks and rays. Research has identified a mismatch between scientists’ recommended approaches to shark conservation and the reporting of more values-based campaigns11. Diversifying the sharks, shark science, and shark scientists we see in popular and news media will soften fears, develop appreciation for the complexity of shark and ocean conservation, and help create the more diverse and representative conservation community necessary to address the wicked problems posed by conserving 1200 species in 200 range countries. Effective, science-based and accessible communication can be a powerful ally to shark and ray conservation efforts. It’s vital to engage a broad cross section of public audiences in the priorities for contemporary conservation and the vital role of science, policy advocacy and sustainable fisheries management. SAFE Sharks & Rays Conservation Plan 2022-24_V2_January 2022 22
III. Strategic Objectives A. Conservation Use AZA institutions’ unique position, access and knowledge base to expand relationships, close data gaps, enhance understanding and enable evidence-based conservation action. 1. Create networks, tools, and institutional approaches to encourage scientific and conservation collaboration and knowledge sharing between long term animal care facilities and in-situ field conservation agencies and resource managers. 2. Foster strong, mutually beneficial relationships with shark and ray conservation stakeholders to better align AZA member conservation initiatives towards high impact, sustainable conservation outcomes. B. Stakeholder & Public Engagement Use AZA institutions’ unique position, access and knowledge base to promote meaningful change and engage positive action among key public and stakeholder groups. 1. Develop and promote an online “Action Hub” and associated social media presence: a resource base for professionals working with sharks. The hub will deliver SAFE Sharks and Rays resources and stimulate action for key stakeholder groups: AZA institutions, communicators, animal care professionals, in situ researchers, recreational fishers, ecotourism operators and media. 2. Promote and facilitate best practice community (citizen) science projects that support the SAFE Sharks and Rays conservation objectives. 3. Build credibility and trust in the SAFE program by communicating, supporting and amplifying shark and ray policy priorities to enable institutional engagement with their audiences. 4. Establish AZA institutions as champions of sustainable seafood. 5. Establish AZA SAFE partners as key advisers in supporting best practice shark and ray welfare in field conservation and research. C. Public Awareness & Communications Use AZA institutions’ unique position, access, and knowledge base to drive a change of narrative in shark conservation – supporting communication that is engaging, directed, and aligned with the goals of science-based shark conservation. 1. Unify conservation messaging for elasmobranch species across AZA institutions so that our institutions are speaking with one voice on the most pressing conservation concerns facing sharks and rays. 2. Repair biased and damaging narratives around elasmobranch science, scientists, diversity and inclusion in entertainment and news media to increase support for shark and ray conservation initiatives. SAFE Sharks & Rays Conservation Plan 2022-24_V2_January 2022 23
D. Fundraising Objective Use AZA institutions’ unique position, access, and knowledge base to create opportunities for AZA facilities and private partners to provide support in the most direct, impactful, and collaborative process for conservation. 1. Create a financial framework to support SAFE Sharks and Rays. 2. Develop AZA partner kickoff campaign to fund the launch of the SAFE Sharks and Rays conservation plan. 3. Establish SAFE Sharks and Rays Conservation Coordinator (CC). 4. Create advancement working group to build a culture of unified support across AZA and partner organizations that secures funding for implementation of the conservation plan. SAFE Sharks & Rays Conservation Plan 2022-24_V2_January 2022 24
IV. Program Summary Table (Include Objectives and Actions)
A. Conservation Objectives
Use AZA institutions’ unique position, access and knowledge base to expand relationships, close data gaps, enhance understanding and enable
evidence-based conservation action.
Strategic Objective 1: Create networks, tools, and institutional approaches to encourage scientific and conservation collaboration and knowledge sharing
between long term animal care facilities and in-situ field conservation agencies and resource managers.
Background: As part of the SSP Sustainability project of the first SAFE Shark and Ray CAP, a range of valuable tools for human care and management of
elasmobranchs were developed, engaging a global network of aquarium/ animal care partners. These tools will now be adapted and enhanced to provide a critical bridge
to engage field researchers and in-situ conservationists in collaborative conservation efforts.
Action Metric Time frame AZA Partners Conservation Budget Notes
Partners
1.1 Optimize the a) 100% AZA participation Q1 2023 All AZA Facilities Zier- Niemann $5,000 to provide
participation in the in ICCHC (TRACKS) program monitoring
International Census and troubleshooting
for Chondrichthyans in b) 100% participation of Q1 2023 National All non- AZA partners support, program
Human Care (ICCHC) American Elasmobranch Aquarium lead updating
as a foundation for Society (AES) Captive partner costs.
building capacity to Elasmobranch Census
engage in future (CEC) 2008 participants
meaningful, strategic,
collaborative c) ICCHC query able on a Q1 2022
conservation. participant basis with
“communication feature”
operational
1.2 Develop a hematology a) Development of Q1 2022 All AZA Facilities ZOOQUATIC $5000 to provide
and blood chemistry reference intervals software
reference intervals by complete for test species Zier- Niemann development,
species as a standard (TRACKS) startup support,
for assessing shark b) Software development Q2 2023 Natalie program monitoring
and ray health complete Mylniczenko Rob Jones (The and troubleshooting
(Disney) Aquarium Vet) support, program
SAFE Sharks & Rays Conservation Plan 2022-24 25updating
Mississippi Aquarium costs.
1.3 Create a reference a) Reference intervals Cownose SAFE SC ZooQuatic Laboratory a) Med Calc
library for blood developed by the Digital rays 2022; Rob Jones (The (Jill Arnold) Subscription
chemistry to create a Database Team submitted additional Aquarium Vet) Mississippi Aquarium $150/year
standard for assessing for publication in peer species 2022 Natalie (Alexa Delaune)
shark and ray health review journal (Veterinary and 2023 Mylniczenko Zier Niemann (Tony
Clinical Pathology) each (Disney) Niemann)
year as species data is American Society for
developed Veterinary Clinical
Pathology/Quality
b) Phlebotomy Guide Q4 2023 Rob Jones (The Assurance for b) Per species:
published/distributed Aquarium Vet) Laboratory Standards Phlebotomy sites
Natalie Committee anticoagulant
Mylniczenko (Lotti Hollinger, recommendations,
(Disney) Melinda Camus) sample collection
information and
c) Reading Reference List Q4 2023 Rob Jones (The processes
distributed Aquarium Vet)
Natalie c) Digital
Mylniczenko
(Disney)
SAFE Sharks & Rays Conservation Plan 2022-24 261.4 Encourage a) Draft a case study on the 2022-2023 StAR Steering IUCN Conservation a) $3,000 stipend
collaboration among Stegastoma tigrinum Committee Planning Specialist for intern
AZA members in Augmentation and Group (CPSG)
support of re- Recovery (StAR) project South-East Soo
introduction and Alliance for
augmentation b) Draft a living document Q4 2023 StAR Steering Reproduction and b) virtual workshop b) Kathy Traylor-Holzer
programs as that builds on IUCN Committee Conservation - in kind would be a great
conservation tools for conservation planning SAFE S/R (SEZARC) resource. Linda
imperiled shark and guidelines to create a Conservation NGO's Penfold at SEZARC
ray species. shark-specific handbook for has also done the
ex situ breeding & Conservation Planning
reintroduction programs training
within AZA
c) Evaluate at-risk S/R Q1 2022 SAFE S/R c) in kind
species or populations for
potential programs, c) Use list of DD, EN
coupling to existing or and CE species on the
proposed threat mitigations. RedList to cross
d) Use IUCN red list reference with ICCHC
d) Cross-reference the top assessments,
5 species on the list of various MPA
potential programs with databases, and
species ranges and existing information from
MPAs. (Create maps to partners.
inform selection of target
populations and release
areas for priority species.)
1.5 Create SAFE S/R a) Pull 2020 Annual Report Q1 2022 Hap Fatzinger TRACKS In-kind contributions We believe that a lot of
Conservation Network on Conservation and SAFE S/R American this initial leg work
Catalogue that Science (ARCS) report and AZA Staff Elasmobranch could be a good intern
encompasses a digital determine gaps in reporting Society; project.
database of taxa, field
conservation and b) In concert with the Q1 2022 Jennie Janssen
research efforts of ICCHC create taxa SAFE S/R
AZA and non-AZA database
facilities.
c) Develop a list of potential Q1 2022 SAFE S/R
external partners.
d) Develop a list of projects Q1 2022 SAFE S/R
ongoing and resources
SAFE Sharks & Rays Conservation Plan 2022-24 27available at AZA facilities.
e) Work with AZA Q2 2022 SAFE S/R
Conservation Science staff
to optimize ARCs reporting
accuracy
f) Aligned with ARCS, 2022- 2023 SAFE S/R
create a database that will
provide topic interest and
taxa included for AZA
facilities
SAFE Sharks & Rays Conservation Plan 2022-24 28Strategic Objective 2: Foster strong, mutually beneficial relationships with shark and ray conservation stakeholders to better align AZA member conservation
initiatives towards high impact, sustainable conservation outcomes.
Background: The first SAFE Shark and Ray CAP recognized the vital importance of engaging with the wider science-based shark conservation community. Ensuring the
efforts of the SAFE program complement and enhance the significant existing global conservation strategy for this diverse group of species. The next steps are to
generate sustainable working partnerships to boost the standing and contribution of AZA partnership work to the sector.
Action Metric Time AZA Partners Conservation Budget Notes
frame Partners
2.1 Build stronger a) Plan a SAFE S/R Q3 2022 SAFE S/R (Shedd American a) & b) ~$15,000 to bring Increases awareness
relationships with symposium at American & GAI lead) Elasmobranch plenary speakers, meal of Aquarium science
external shark and Elasmobranch Society Society & breaks and associated and conservation
ray NGOs and (AES) annual meeting or Sharks International costs potential. Will spawn
scientific societies to Sharks International 2022 organizing committee additional
increase our collaborations
collective impact on b) Sponsor SAFE S/R AES Q2 SAFE S/R American
S/R conservation. symposium/workshops at 2023; SI Elasmobranch
AES annual meeting or Q3 2022 Society & Sharks
Sharks International 2022 International
organizing committee
c) Engage with Kira Q2 2022 SAFE S/R IUCN SSG
Mileham to establish a
deliberate strategy to
better engage with IUCN
Shark Specialist Group
(SSG)
2.2 Support conservation a) Host five IUCN Red 2022- TBD by species IUCN SSC entities: ~$20,000 per workshop = Conservation
planning for imperiled List Assessment or 2024 identified SSG and CPSG. $100,000, which can be Planning workshops
shark and ray Conservation Planning matched by host are a logical
species. Workshops at AZA GSRI/ Conservation institutions and NGOs continuation of the
facilities, covering species NGOs. interested in sponsoring. Global Shark Trends
of interest to SAFE S/R Project that just
and/or the host institution. finished assessments
on all extant S&R.
Nicely follows
OnePlan the IUCN
SAFE Sharks & Rays Conservation Plan 2022-24 29model of: Assess -->
Plan --> Act.
2.3 Increase AZA a) Support delegates from Q3 2022 SAFE S/R IUCN ~$10,000 per delegate These forums give
presence at and among AZA member including travel. AZA SAFE S/R a say
participation at institutions to participate Steve Olson, AZA in international
international in Convention on conservation
conservation forums International Trade of initiatives, promoting
Endangered Species our missions while
(CITES) Conference of protecting our
the Parties 19 in 2022. operational needs.
“Walking the talk”
b) Support delegates from 2024 SAFE S/R ~$10,000 per delegate
among AZA member including travel
institutions to participate
in World Conservation
Congress.
2.4 Create shared a) Coordinate a joint Q1 2022 SAFE S/R May also include
conservation workshop of the other SAFE
objectives across the Seascape programs Bart Shepherd programs, such as
AZA ‘Seascape’ (Corals) Tree Kangaroos for
during the 2022 AZA
SAFE programs: their Ridge to Reef
Shark and Rays, Midyear Meeting to create James Danoff- conservation
Corals, African a set of shared objectives Burg (Vaquita) approach.
Penguins, Vaquita, that will be added to
and Sea Turtle revised and future Mark Swingle (Sea Additional budget
Conservation Plans. Turtle) may be required after
shared objectives are
Patty McGill identified
b) Update meetings
2023, (African Penguin)
during subsequent MYM’s 2024
to assess progress and Shelly Grow (AZA)
adapt priorities
SAFE Sharks & Rays Conservation Plan 2022-24 30Linked GSRI Actions
Saving Shark and Ray Species
• Gather and analyze data.
Ensuring Responsible Trade in Shark and Ray Products
• Identify – and bring to the attention of both authorities and consumers – additional at-risk species in trade and encourage CITES,
regional and/or national controls on trade in the relevant shark and ray products.
SAFE Sharks & Rays Conservation Plan 2022-24 31B. Stakeholder & Public Engagement Objectives
Use AZA institutions’ unique position, access and knowledge base to promote meaningful change and engage positive action among key public
and stakeholder groups.
Strategic Objective 1: Developing and promoting an online “Action Hub” and associated social media presence: a resource base for professionals working
with sharks. The hub will deliver SAFE Sharks and Rays resources and stimulate action for key stakeholder groups: AZA institutions, communicators, animal
care professionals, in situ researchers, recreational fishers, ecotourism operators and media.
Background: Through the Awareness/Communications and Conservation objectives, the SAFE Shark and Ray program will develop a range of tools to further the goals of
the program. The Action Hub will provide a central resource bank to enable the delivery of the messaging framework, data tools and associated actions to the target
audiences. The Action Hub will provide users with a tailored set of positive actions and resources to enable engagement with wider shark and ray conservation.
Action Metric Timeframe AZA Partners Conservation Budget Notes
Partners
1.1 Create “Action Hub” a) Identify, recruit Q1 2022 Mote/SeaLife Shark Trust In-kind staff time, The hub provides a central
working group to and secure online coordination. access point for delivery of
develop website commitment for AZA resources from the three
framework, social Action Hub (AH) social media team pillars of activity in the SAFE
media presence and team S/R program. And
activation connection with SAFE data
b) Produce action Q2 2022 tools. Access to databases
hub workplan to will be through a registration
include definition of process to maintain security
metrics and and allow monitoring of
monitoring. engagement.
1.2 Website Specification a) Produce needs Q2 2022 Conservation and Shark Trust Wordpress Business Initial development will utilize
analysis document Public Awareness Plan = $240pa a professional version of
and identify key WG leads. WordPress.
stakeholder groups. Development to be
Interaction with Mote/SeaLife done as In-Kind from
Conservation/ Mote S/C Rep.
Public Awareness AZA
groups to specify social media team
output.
b) Produce Site Q2 2022
SAFE Sharks & Rays Conservation Plan 2022-24 32Map, development
plan and creative
brief
1.3 Web Build & Test a) Engage Q2 2022 Kristen Corl, AZA NOAA Fisheries In-kind Staff time
stakeholder focus Comms Team (Mote/Shark Trust)
group(s) Conservation and
Public Awareness AES Partners
b) Collect and Q2 2022 WG leads.
collate user Shark Trust/NGO
feedback and Network
produce final
website plan.
c) Carry out website Q2-4 2022
development and
produce offline test
platform.
d) Carry out User Q1 2023
acceptance testing,
complete fixes and
launch live website.
1.4 Launch & Ongoing a) AZA institution Q1-2 2023 SAFE S/R Look to coincide launch with
Promotion promotion MYM and Connect
Ongoing publication
1.5 Social Channels a) Develop Social Q1 2023 SAFE S/R AES contacts / key Contract for external Focus research community
Media (SM) influencers SM content manager on Twitter
platform and AZA Institution (TBC – depending on
delivery plan Volunteer (or scope of work) Use Facebook/Instagram
recruit external page & groups for engaging
b) Build core Q1-Q4 2023 contractors) for collaboration and providing
audience through audience sharable resources for wider
hashtag targeting Ongoing development, audience.
and tagging. scheduling and
channel
management.
Kristen Corl (AZA)
and a liaison in
the PR Marketing
Committee
SAFE Sharks & Rays Conservation Plan 2022-24 33Strategic Objective 2: Promoting and facilitating best practice community (citizen) science projects that support the SAFE Sharks and Rays conservation
objectives.
Background: Engaging motivated individuals and groups in shark conservation can be facilitated through well managed and engaging community (citizen) science
programs. Identifying, auditing and promoting suitable best practice projects to AZA institutions will ensure quality engagement for participants and boost records for
identified projects.
Action Metric Timeframe AZA Partners Conservation Budget Notes
Partners
2.1 Produce and a) Production and Q1 2022 North Carolina Shark Trust In-kind partner staff Guide based upon existing
disseminate guide for publication of guide Aquariums Wild Me time best practice guidelines and
projects based on and checklist. Georgia Aquarium partner experience in
principles of delivery of CS programs.
community (citizen)
science Including evaluation
framework & guidelines
2.2 Promotion of key a) Assess project Q2-4 2022 (in SAFE Steering In kind AZA Ensure that projects cover a
projects for suitability against line with hub Committee (SC) Institution and range of groups – e.g Divers,
institutional criteria development) partner staff time Beachcombers, Boat users,
engagement including AZA institutional fishers.
resources and links to b) Assign AZA Q2 2022 staff
project partners. project link
c) Contact Q3-4 2022
organizers and
establish
partnership
agreement
d) Populate and test Q1 2023
page(s) on action
hub
SAFE Sharks & Rays Conservation Plan 2022-24 34e) Conduct and Annually
produce Annual Ongoing
Review
SAFE Sharks & Rays Conservation Plan 2022-24 35Strategic Objective 3: Building credibility and trust in the SAFE program by communicating, supporting and amplifying shark and ray policy priorities to enable
institutional engagement with their audiences.
Background: In combination with research, stakeholder engagement and public participation, policy change is a key lever for shark and ray conservation. In the diverse and
well-established sector, AZA SAFE will seek to establish a key role connecting Aquarium Conservation Partnership (ACP), AZA Government Affairs Committee (GAC) and
the Global Shark and Ray Initiative (GSRI) partnership of NGO’s to elucidate, communicate and engage support for the goals of science-based conservation.
Action Metric Timeframe AZA Partners Conservation Budget Notes
Partners
3.1 Create a Shark and a) Identify, recruit Q1 2022 AZA institutions ACP Ensure connectivity with
Ray Policy working and secure supporting one of Shark Advocates the wider GSRI
group from SAFE commitment from their staff to work Shark Trust partnership and
Sharks and Rays participants, on this project IUCN maximize potential for
steering committee partners and AES AZA SAFE to harness
member leadership. Andrea Densham public support for
organizations and (Shedd)- campaigns and
wider partnerships. b) Conduct working Q1 2022 Connections with objectives.
Work to form a group meetings on Ongoing ACP and AZA
productive a quarterly basis Gov Affairs Establish connectivity
partnership with the and provide for ad- Committee. between science, public,
AZA, ACP, GAC, hoc intersessional stakeholders and policy
GSRI. meetings on key Jen Keaton/Steve so guide the ethos of the
topics Olson (AZA) AZA SAFE policy
actions to guide future
c) Define Q2 2022 AZA People partnership
appropriate metrics Advancing development.
and protocols for Conservation
measurement of Together (PACT)
impact
3.2 Create and a) Produce and Q1 2022 Steve Olson & ACP The policy position statement
publish/distribute a disseminate a draft Jen Keaton Shark Advocates sets out the ethos of the
policy framework to policy framework. Shark Trust program, the theory of change
aid in the evaluation S/R Policy IUCN and provides a framework for
of new and existing b) Policy working Q1 2022 Working Group future SAFE policy
shark/ray group to review and engagement and positioning.
conservation policy sign-off on position
efforts and produce statement
advisory alerts for
AZA member c) Produce regular Q2 2022
institutions. policy briefings and Ongoing
distribute through
AZA and ACP
SAFE Sharks & Rays Conservation Plan 2022-24 36networks.
3.3 Engage with wider Coordinate Q4 2022 (as S/R Policy
policy networks and institutional support and when Working Group
partners to activate for relevant appropriate)
AZA institutional advocacy
support and opportunities and
amplification of produce annual
relevant policy impact evaluation
initiatives. report.
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