The Indian Ocean Humpback Dolphin Conservation Network (HuDoNet) held its second meeting on February 28, 2024, marking another stride forward in the conservation of Sousa plumbea. Ada Natoli set the tone by linking activities proposed for the immediate future to medium-term plans and ultimately to the network's goal of galvanising conservation action.
The meeting kicked off with the unveiling of the new HuDoNet logo, chosen through member votes, reflecting the network’s identity and commitment. Techy Apes, the design firm behind the logo, is also responsible for constructing the network's website, with the aim of enhanced connectivity and resource sharing.
Strategic Framework and Working Groups
A simplified conservation system was discussed comprising five elements: the dolphins; threats and solutions; the people behind the threats and solutions; formal rules that govern people’s behaviour; and our network’s potential links to each of these elements. This framework set the stage for proposing five working groups: Biological Research, Threats and Solutions, People, Policy, and Network Enhancement.
Gill Braulik outlined a proposed approach for setting targets, drawing on decades of conservation planning experience from groups like the IUCN Conservation Planning Specialist Group and the Consortium for the Conservation of the Atlantic Humpback Dolphin. The proposed steps include defining success, understanding the system, deciding on intervention points, agreeing on intervention methods, and detailing the actions needed for these interventions.
Debates and Decisions
A key debate centred on whether to include research capacity building within the Biological Research or the People Working Group. It was decided that due to its specific nature, it should remain within the Biological Research group to foster exchange of expertise and fieldwork opportunities.
The structure and size of the working groups were also discussed. The consensus leaned towards fewer but larger groups to ensure momentum and effective participation, as smaller groups might dilute the focus and resources.
JEDI Principles and Leadership
The meeting reaffirmed the network's commitment to Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI), with Katie Reeve-Arnold highlighting the existing JEDI panel within the Network Enhancement Working Group ready to support all network activities.
Leadership roles within the working groups were discussed, emphasising the importance of dual leadership—combining early career and experienced leaders—to ensure a dynamic and supportive approach.
Defining and Measuring Success
The session concluded with participants defining what success looks like for HuDoNet, using keywords and statements that will form the basis of a network-wide vision of success. This vision will guide the way forward and each working group can adapt the definitions to their specific focus areas.
As the meeting wrapped up, the members were tasked with considering how to monitor and measure the network's progress effectively, setting the stage for a focused and actionable short-term strategy aimed at securing necessary funding and advancing conservation efforts.
The dedication and collaborative spirit shown at this second meeting are a testament to HuDoNet’s potential to make significant impacts in the conservation of the Indian Ocean humpback dolphin. With a clear path laid out, the network is well-positioned to take its next steps on the path to achieving its conservation goals.
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