| The commercial fishery in Atlantic Canada recently underwent a dramatic downturn in catch rates. This has led to a complete closure of virtually the entire east coast fishery. With the closure of the commercial fishery, the largest employer in the region, little other potential for economic development has been proposed. This study suggests wildlife viewing as a potential method to attract tourists and provide for some economic development in the region. A case study of a typical coastal area is used here to suggest means for communities to address potential issues before development proceeds. From the case study, the constraints to and opportunities for potential development in the tourism industry are addressed. Then a set of guidelines to inventory and evaluate wildlife resources, to minimize impacts on wildlife, and identify issues and problems of implementation and monitoring of a wildlife viewing plan are suggested. Additional procedural recommendation to promote appropriate wildlife viewing and tourism planning in the study site conclude the study. |
