[mou] code of ethics

[Bernard P. Friel]

     A simpler yet comprehensive statement of ethical field practices was
adopted by the North American Nature Photography Association in 1996. I sat
on the Committee that wrote that statement of practices, and Birder's World
among others recommends following them.
     For informational purposes they are set forth below.


                PRINCIPLES OF ETHICAL FIELD PRACTICES

NANPA believes that following these practices promotes the well-being of the
location, subject and photographer. Every place, plant, and animal, whether
above or below water, is unique, and cumulative impacts occur over time.
Therefore, one must always exercise good individual judgment. It is NANPA's
belief that these principles will encourage all who participate in the
enjoyment of nature to do so in a way that best promotes good stewardship of
the resource.

Environmental: knowledge of subject and place

Learn patterns of animal behavior--know when not to interfere with animals'
life cycles.
Respect the routine needs of animals--remember that others will attempt to
photograph them, too.
Use appropriate lenses to photograph wild animals--if an animal shows
stress, move back and use a longer lens.
Acquaint yourself with the fragility of the ecosystem--stay on trails that
are intended to lessen impact.
Social: knowledge of rules and laws

When appropriate, inform managers or other authorities of your presence and
purpose--help minimize cumulative impacts and maintain safety.
Learn the rules and laws of the location--if minimum distances exist for
approaching wildlife, follow them.
In the absence of management authority, use good judgement--treat the
wildlife, plants and places as if you were their guest.
Prepare yourself and your equipment for unexpected events--avoid exposing
yourself and others to preventable mishaps.
Individual: expertise and responsibilities

Treat others courteously--ask before joining others already shooting in an
area.
Tactfully inform others if you observe them engaging in inappropriate or
harmful behavior--many people unknowingly endanger themselves and animals.
Report inappropriate behavior to proper authorities--don't argue with those
who don't care; report them.
Be a good role model, both as a photographer and a citizen--educate others
by your actions; enhance their understanding.
Adopted February 3, 1996 by the NANPA board of directors.

Bernie Friel
-- 
Bernard P. Friel
Web Pages - http://www.wampy.com  ;
            http://www.wampy.com/bn   Owl Gallery
            http://www.wampy.com/bn2  Songbirds

            http://www.agpix.com/bernardpfriel

            http://myloupe.com/home/found_photographer.php?photographer=1113
         
            http://www.digitalrailroad.net/bernardfriel


> From: Jim Williams <two-jays at att.net>
> Date: Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:17:18 +0000
> To: <pastoral at princetonfreechurch.net>, <mou-net at moumn.org>,
> <mnbird at lists.mnbird.net>, Wisconsin Birding Network <wisbirdn at lawrence.edu>
> Subject: [mou] code of ethics
> 
> Perhaps the ABA code of ethics periodically could be published here. I doubt
> if 
> any one of us knows it by heart. It is helpful. It does offer guidelines. I
> find that my rather constant use of a camera while birding in recent years has
> made the code's suggested considerations and restrictions more relevant.
> Cameras tempt one.
> The code helps maintain perspective.
> 
> The code can be found at http://www.americanbirding.org/abaethics.htm
> 
> Jim Williams
> Wayzata
> 
> 
> 
> ---
> This mailing list is sponsored by the Minnesota Ornithologists' Union.
> Mailing list membership available on-line at http://moumn.org/subscribe.html.
> -----
> To unsubscribe send a blank email to mou-net-request at moumn.org with a subject
> of unsubscribe.