Local News

Study of Cape Cod shark problem finds no definitive solution

The study said the most effective solution may be changing human behavior.

A great white shark swims off Cape Cod on July 13, 2019. JOSEPH PREZIOSO/AFP/Getty Images

BARNSTABLE, Mass. (AP) — A long-awaited report on what to do about the great white sharks prowling Cape Cod waters offered more than two dozen suggestions but concluded there is nothing that can provide 100% safety.

The report by the Woods Hole Group — a coalition of towns, the Cape Cod National Seashore and Atlantic White Shark Conservancy — was released Wednesday.

The 27 suggested solutions were divided into three categories: technology-based, barrier-based and biological-based.

They included visual detection with towers, drones and balloons; sonar; physical barriers; acoustic barriers; and electromagnetic deterrents.

Seal contraception and a seal or shark cull were ruled out.

The study said the most effective solution may be changing human behavior.

Advertisement:

Sharks were spotted almost daily at Cape Cod beaches last summer. One person was killed in a shark attack last year.