temporary; repetition is often necessary to effect cognitive change (Jacobson, 1999). It

could be that additional meetings with boaters would help increase retention of the

Manatee Watch message.

 4. Have a multi-faceted approach.

 Interventions that utilize a multi-faceted approach have a higher chance of changing

behaviors (Blanchard 1995; Richter 1996). People respond to many different types of

education, be it through the media, face-to-face meetings, educational events, or active

participation. This evaluation only focused on one brief, face-to-face intervention.

Manatee Watch is also involved in neighborhood and community groups and local

events. By reaching out to boaters in a variety of ways, they would have a greater chance

of success in reaching their goals. More boaters listed newspapers and magazines as their

source of information about boating regulations and manatees than any other media

(Appendix K). Interpretative materials, such as kiosks at ramps and marinas may be an

effective way to educate boaters.

 5. Incorporate active participation of boaters.

 Passive interventions that do not involve active participation are less successful at

changing behaviors than interventions that involve the participants (Zelezny, 1999).

Manatee Watch gives the boaters materials, and volunteers speak for less than a minute;

but little involvement is required of the boaters besides slowing down to receive the

materials. Involving the boaters via active participation or interaction would be more

successful in changing behavior than by simply giving them materials. Again, this may

be difficult on the water, but there may be opportunities at ramps, or by visiting boating

clubs and community organizations.