Dear Marine Mammal Observers & Passive Acoustic Monitoring Operators,

 

The Marine Mammal Observer Association (MMOA) is a membership based association with the aim of bringing together and representing individuals who work commercially and professionally as Marine Mammal Observers (MMOs), Protected Species Observers (PSOs) and Passive Acoustic Monitoring (PAM) Operators who implement mitigation measures to protect marine life during industry operations. 

The MMOA also provides a platform for professional conversation and education. Research has shown that there are many valid reasons to be a part of a professional organisation, these include:

 

• Demonstrating that you have the experience, qualifications and skills in your field[1]
  
• Enhancing individual credibility and dedication to continuous professional development[1]
  
• Providing networking opportunities[1]
  
• Providing access to career development opportunities[1]
  
• Setting a code of conduct and demonstrating individual levels of commitment to maintaining these standards[2]
  
• They also foster the development of professional attitudes, which include[3]:
  
• The professional role we carry out to ensure the protection of endangered/ at risk species
  
• Dedication to the field through acquisition of current knowledge 
  
• Using the professional organization as a major reference for professional standards
  
• Self-regulation (through following the code of conduct set by the association)
  

The MMOA strives to stay up to date with the latest research in the field and offer a unified position on mitigation measures. We then represent these views in feedback to regulatory authorities, academics and industry. This is designed to improve the communication between these bodies and to improve the standards of marine mammal mitigation. Most recently, we responded to the JNCC’s call for comments on their suggested updates. 

 

We provide a platform for experienced MMOs and PAMs to exchange information, ask questions and discuss relevant issues through the member forum and our information directory. We also encourage newcomers to the field to use the members' information directory to educate themselves on their new role and reach out for support from senior members when necessary. 

 

Whether the industry is in a downturn or upturn, you can maintain your connection to the field and your passion for the role you play in mitigation measures by joining our association. 

Please take a moment to review our website and see how we can provide a service to you and your colleagues by joining. www.mmo-association.org

 

We have an election for our committee once a year and if you are interested in more than just membership, we encourage you to follow-up membership with a more involved role by running for a committee position, which is also a great way to demonstrate your CPD. 

 

Sincerely,

 

The Marine Mammal Observer Association Executive Committee 

[1] https://www.ctp.org.uk/resettlement-guide-article/benefits-of-joining-a-399704

[2] http://www.birmingham.ac.uk/alumni/careers/graduatecareers/finding/professional-associations.aspx

[3] Yeager, S. J. 1981. Fostering the development of professionalism: An exchange theory perspective of the decision to join a professional association. Southern Review of Public Administration (5) 3:314-338

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