Testing Interpretation to Influence Snorkeler Behavior in the Mombasa Marine Park and Reserve (Kenya)

A major goal of natural resource managers is to foster and maximize environmentally responsible behavior among resource users. Interpretation is the process of conveying a message to someone to (a) enhance the awareness and appreciation that the person has with their surroundings, and to (b) encourage pro-environmental actions. It is one management tool that can be used to influence the actions or inactions of recreational visitors. Effective interpretation prompts the target audience to take action and provides opportunities for the audience to take action. An understanding of behavior and behavior change guides interpretive efforts so that they are effective in influencing behavior. This paper investigates the application of behavioral principles to test the most effective interpretive messages in influencing snorkeler behavior in Mombasa Marine Park. Key messages were incorporated into a training workshop for all the snorkel boat operators and associated crew enabling them to deliver an interpretation program to their clientele. Results indicate that the introduced interpretation program successfully influenced the behavior of snorkeling clients (i.e. led to more pro-environmental snorkel behavior), and increased visitor satisfaction (largely due to the transfer of information through the guide).