Whale watching in Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary: Understanding passengers and their economic contributions
Year
2021
Journal
National Marine Sanctuaries Conservation Science Series
Editors:
Abstract
Ecosystem services are benefits that people receive from the environment. This report focuses on the economic contribution of whales relative to recreation and tourism through wildlife viewing. Understanding the importance and economic contributions of the whale watching sector, including for-hire operators and the whale watching public, is important for wildlife management and the local economy. This study surveyed whale watchers who pay for boat-based tours in the Channel Islands region.