The use of drones to monitor shark activity at US beaches has sparked debate over their effectiveness as a public safety tool. While some argue that the increased investment in drone technology is justified due to the potential threat of sharks, others caution that the perceived rise in shark sightings may be more about the technology itself than an actual increase in shark activity.
One of the main concerns is the potential for a spiral effect, where the increased use of drones leads to more reports of shark sightings, which in turn leads to more drone purchases. This cycle could perpetuate a false sense of security, as the odds of being bitten by a shark remain extremely low, at one in 4.3 million.
In New York, the state has been spending significant amounts of money on drone technology to monitor shark activity. In 2022, Governor Kathy Hochul announced a $1 million commitment to purchase drones and train staff, and in 2023, an additional $322,000 was allocated for 16 more drones. However, experts like Greg Skomal argue that the perceived increase in shark sightings may be due to the increased presence of drones, rather than an actual rise in shark activity.
The effectiveness of drones in spotting sharks is also limited by environmental factors. Chris Lowe, director of the Shark Lab at California State University, Long Beach, notes that poor visibility can make it difficult for drones to detect sharks, even when they are just 5ft below the surface. This highlights the need for a multi-faceted approach to shark monitoring, including the use of tags and acoustic receivers.
In Wellfleet, Massachusetts, the purchase of drones and receivers to detect tagged sharks has been criticized as unnecessary, given the low risk of shark attacks. Suzanne Grout Thomas, Wellfleet's retired director of community services, argues that sharks are intelligent and do not pose a greater threat to humans, as they primarily target seals.
The potential for drones to provide a false sense of security is a significant concern. Greg Skomal warns that the increased use of drones could lead to irrational reactions from government officials and beachgoers, especially since shark attacks remain very rare. This could result in unnecessary beach closures and economic consequences if people avoid swimming due to shark reports.
In New York, the state parks office's regional director, George Gorman, confirms that lifeguards clear the water if they spot a shark with a drone. However, the state does not use tags and receivers to detect sharks, relying instead on the presence of large schools of baitfish or bunker fish as a red flag. The recent shark bite incident at Jones Beach highlights the limitations of drone technology and the need for a more nuanced approach to beach safety.
In conclusion, while drones can be effective at spotting sharks on the surface, their usefulness as a public safety tool is limited. The potential for a spiral effect and the provision of a false sense of security are significant concerns. A more comprehensive approach, including the use of tags and acoustic receivers, may be necessary to ensure the safety of swimmers without inciting unnecessary fear and economic consequences.
