Captive Cetaceans: A Handbook for Campaigners - Whale and ...

SECTION 10
Opposing new facilities.
What happens when there is news of an aquarium/marine park being considered for
construction in your vicinity? What is the best course of action to thwart the proposed
facility, or at least ensure that it will be "cetacean-free"? A number of suggestions are
offered to help answer these questions, but the list is by no means all-inclusive. The
answer will vary, depending on how far the proposal is into the planning stages; the
local political climate, and the degree of public support.
First, do your homework; educate yourself on the issues and regulations. Find out the
location of the proposed facility, who has initiated the proposal, and which
construction firms are being consulted. Identify key supporters, potential sponsors and
financial backers. Ask if cetaceans are being considered. Be persistent, persuasive and
polite.
Network with other groups with similar concerns; they can provide tremendous
assistance and support. Keep all interested parties informed. Develop a consistent
position statement and stick to it. Assign individuals to meet and negotiate with all
parties, including local legislators and potential sponsors. Be positive - examples of
existing and proposed aquariums which have declined to display cetaceans does
appear to influence decision makers. The views of recognised scientists can also be
impressive. Be prepared to compromise: aquariums can be educational without
confining cetaceans.
Arguments, other than animal welfare issues, which may be of concern to city
officials and the public might include:
• Funding - where will it come from? Taxpayers are sensitive to the issue of
whether proposed new facilities will be dependent upon local, state or federal
(governmental) funding.
• Aquariums are expensive to build and maintain.
• Adequate attendence levels cannot be guaranteed.
• Aquariums are becoming increasingly controversial and may be vulnerable to
unforeseen problems. They can be environmentally unsound, requiring massive
water supplies and waste disposal. One dolphin can produce 20 pounds of organic
waste daily.
In 1985, construction began on the new $12 million Seven Seas Panorama at the
Brookfield Zoo, which took two years to complete. After only 18 months, the paint on
the dolphin pools was bubbling and peeling. The dolphins had to be moved back to
the old pools while the work was redone.
The National Aquarium in Baltimore opened in 1981, funded primarily by the City of
Baltimore and $2.5 million from the Department of Commerce (using federal tax
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