A NEW survey aims to find out if shark-spotting drones are wanted on local beaches.
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The birds-eye view of the ocean allows drone operators to tip-off lifeguards if sharks are spotted in the area. During the drone trial in the warmer months of 2016/17 the aerial monitoring program at Redhead beach found 23 sharks, 16 of which were longer than two metres.
Now researchers are asking the public what they think about the drone program to find out if it should be funded for expansion.
"We know there is a delicate balance between safety and letting people enjoy their recreational activities," researcher Andrew Colefax said.
"Shark mitigations aren't cheap, so we need to reflect on what the public wants. It is a community issue."
The survey, run by Southern Cross University and NSW Shark Management Strategy, runs until the end of June.
It is for beach users along the NSW coastline and can be accessed online at facebook.com/dronesharksurvey or sharksmart.nsw.gov.au/technology-trials-and-research/drones#survey
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