Marine Mammals Observer

The Marine Fauna Observer (MFO) carries out visual detection of marine fauna during surveys
associated with the dredging and reclamation works foreseen during the Construction of Port
Vreed-en-Hoop. The MFO’s work scope is covered by the Marine Faunal Management Plan
(MFMP) associated with mitigating the potential impacts of dredging and reclamation activities
on nearby marine fauna.
The role of the MFO includes visual monitoring of all marine fauna mentioned in the MFMP
during dredging, transit, and disposal of the vessel.
Observations are done from the bridge or a similar observation platform.
MFO’s complete the marine fauna observation sheets as well as incident reporting forms in case
of vessel strikes or entanglement.
The MFO takes knowledge of the applicable real-time mitigation guidelines that need to be
followed in case of marine fauna observation and is capable of informing vessel crew of the
corrective actions that are to be ensued.
Provides support to Environmental Officer by advising on the marine mammals biodiversity in
the area.