societies, the crocodile trade is extremely important. in 1945 - 1971 northern australians generated significant income at the expense of the crocodile as uncontrolled trade severely impacted on the populations of both saltwater and freshwater crocodiles. full protection over the australian saltwater crocodile was established in 1971 to allow the species to recover. when crocodile numbers increased, co-habitation with local people became a problem, and fatal and non-fatal attacks on people and fishing boats were reported in 1979/1980. in response, the northern territory established an 'incentive-driven conservation strategy' which encouraged people to protect crocodiles through commercial activity such as farming, tourism, and ranching. the saltwater crocodiles are seen as a commercial resource by communities who generate wealth and employment through the crocodile industry. this also promotes crocodile conservation which would otherwise be difficult because of their predatory nature. brands who use crocodile skins are encouraged to support conservation efforts. australian brand croc stock and barra use unwanted sections of skin to handcraft luxury items and ensure waste is limited. other brands such as roje exotics american leathers claim to use leather that is the byproduct of the international exotic cuisine industry which also ensures fewer skins are wasted within the system. animal welfare the management program within the northern territory maintains that the crocodiles are farmed in a humane way. it makes assessments on farming limits and population dynamics to ensure the numbers of saltwater crocodile are maintained and never reach the lows of 1972 again.