In the period 12-16 September two experts from Green Balkans NGO attended the first training for Highly Qualified MMO-PAM operators organized by ACCOBAMS Secretariat and Mare Nostrum NGO in Constanta, Romania. The training was organized in the framework of Resolution “Implementation of an ACCOBAMS Certification for Highly Qualified Marine Mammals Observers” adopted by parties during 6th Meeting of Parties in November 2016.

12 candidates from Black Sea parties to ACCOBAMS have been trained during 5-day training course including 3 days in theory and 2 in practice at sea. The course consists of 6 chapters dedicated to marine mammals and acoustics, underwater acoustics, human activities generating impulsive noise, regulations and the role of MMO/PAM operators. The course was completed with examination and those that successfully passed the test will gain certificate of ACCOBAMS as HQ MMO/PAM operators.

Theoretical part included lectures and introduction to passive acoustic monitoring (PAM) – setting up system and use of the PAM Guard software. Details on identification of cetacean species regularly present in ACCOBAMS area and existing regulations on mitigation of human generated marine noise activities complemented theoretical course. Trainers with large experience as MMO/PAM operators provided useful guidance on mitigation measures and life aboard seismic vessels. During the practical training at sea the participants had the chance to observe Black Sea bottlenose dolphins and to record their sounds using the PAM system.