MOm, the Hellenic Society for the Study and Protection of the Monk Seal ventured to implement the North Aegean Dolphin Project (N.A.D.P.) in the summer of 2013. N.A.D.P. is a research project that volunteers can join in order to participate in a unique opportunity that will also help in the recording and monitoring of dolphin populations in the wider area of the National Marine Park of Alonissos Northern Sporades.
To join a research group participants must speak Greek and/or English and be older than 18. Minors from 11 to 17 years of age can participate if they are accompanied by a parent or guardian. Participants should be able to swim and be willing to share a room with people of the opposite gender.
In 2014, the project commenced its activities and swung in full power, implementing thirty-three research trips during which there were nineteen successful recordings of dolphins!
MOm is still in the process of analyzing the data collected on the field from June till September 2014, and is gearing to present the first results so that there is a documented reliable estimate of the population status of the dolphin species. The information collected is the cornerstone for future management/conservation plans in the area for the protection of the species.
Here are some reviews of past participants: