Evaluation of Public Outreach and Educational Strategies Regarding Conservation Efforts of the New Zealand Sea Lion

                      Executive Summary        Full Report

Project Abstract

Due to a rapid population decline, the New Zealand sea lion is listed as “nationally critical”. The Department of Conservation and New Zealand Sea Lion Trust developed educational outreach material to promote education on the New Zealand sea lion, with limited success. Using a public survey and interviews with stakeholders and educators, this project aimed to identify possible improvements to educational strategies and assess public knowledge and perception regarding the sea lion. Based on our findings, we proposed that the Department of Conservation and New Zealand Sea Lion Trust implement interactive educational programs in primary schools, develop a Facebook page, publish a research blog, post new beach signs, redesign their sea lion pamphlet, and create an activities fair station.

Student Team

• Jessica M Desmond, BC
• Matthew R Dunster, ME
• Andrew C Egger, CM
• Thomas R Nuthmann, ME

Sponsor

NZ Department of Conservation

Advisors

• Hersh, Robert, ID
• Elmes, Michael B., MG