Human Dimensions Of Wreck Diving And Management: Case Studies From Australia And Micronesia

Abstract

Shipwrecks have become popular attractions for recreational scuba divers. This interest has seen increased levels of visitation and has resulted in higher levels of diver impacts at these sites. Understanding the characteristics of the divers' visiting these sites, their motivations, preferences, and attitudes to management controls can assist managers in developing more effective and sustainable management strategies to mitigate diver impacts. However, until recently little was known about wreck divers. This article compiles and analyzes the findings of two recent studies of wreck divers in Australia and Micronesia, discusses their implications to shipwreck management, and makes recommendations about application of this information in management strategies aimed at balancing the protection of sites with visitation by divers.