Dear MARMAM I am currently involved in scoping out a program to train and certify cetacean naturalists (vessel or land-based), and to facilitate communication and sharing of ideas between naturalists working in different parts of the world. This program is being developed by WDCS, the Whale and Dolphin Conservation Society. We are interested in learning from and building upon existing programs in other locations. Therefore, the first aim of this project is to find out what other training or certification programs currently exist for marine and terrestrial based naturalists. I have done some research and am receiving information from a variety of organisations, however I know there is probably a lot more out there which I have not yet managed to find. If any of you have information about naturalist training or certification programs, courses, schools or organisations that you are willing to share, it would be gratefully received. I am also happy to compile a list and post it on MARMAM if anyone would be interested in this information. In addition to this, in an attempt to develop the best program possible, I would very much like to hear from naturalists who are interested in sharing their experiences or making suggestions for this program. I will also be attending the SMM Biennial conference in San Diego if anyone is interested in talking to me in person regarding this matter. I can be contacted by email at deborah.benham@wdcs.org Many thanks in advance Deborah Benham Project Officer Dolphin Space Programme DSP PO Box 5890 Forres IV36 1WY Tel: 07921 106144 The Dolphin Space Programme is overseen by a steering group comprising VisitScotland, the Whale and Dolphin Conservation Society, the Wildlife Tour Boat Operators' Society, the Northern Constabulary, Grampian Constabulary, the Highland Council, Inverness Harbour Trust, the Maritime Coastguard Agency, the Tourism and Environment Forum, WildScotland and Scottish Natural Heritage. ______________________________________________________________________ This email has been scanned by the MessageLabs Email Security System. For more information please visit http://www.messagelabs.com/email ______________________________________________________________________