Why is research important to Dolphin SMART?
Research has proven that outreach and education of conservation messages is effective in encouraging environmental stewardship. Therefore, research is essential to the success of the Dolphin SMART program for multiple reasons. Local research on dolphin populations and human stresses provides a scientific foundation for conservation efforts and programs, such as Dolphin SMART. Ongoing research is also valuable to the Dolphin SMART program because it provides a way to evaluate the effectiveness of the program. Finally, incorporating research into the program provides Dolphin SMART participants with more education tools for their guests that enhances their tour experience with information on local dolphin populations.