Shiny Box!
Although the enameled, metal box gives no hint of its contents (a copy of the leaflet inside was taped to the front for this photo), the placement of a permanent, weatherproof box containing printed information adjacent to a high use seal haul-out is an important step.
Official Logos!
The current version of the leaflet is unmistakeably an official document. Avoiding disturbance to marine mammals is explicitly 'not just a nice idea - it's the law', to borrow a familiar slogan. And the rules are presented here through the cooperative action of a federal sanctuary association, a county government, and local recreational interests.
Clear Guidelines!
As a clear, forceful summary of settled law and best practices, this document is hard to beat. Indeed, if the guidelines are taken literally, even being next to the post where the box is attached is potentially being too close to the haul-out area. If a visitor shouts, slams a car door, or makes other loud noises at this location a disturbance is likely to occur.
P.A.D.D.L.E. !
According to research, harbor seals are more distressed by the quiet approach of a kayak or canoe than by the racket of a speeding outboard. That kayaker groups such as BASK have taken the lead in establishing firm standards for appropriate behavior is worth a CHEER all by itself.
Download (1.3Mb) the colorful, illustrated poster developed in cooperation with California Fish and Game. Print it, and hang it up. It's a real gem.