Madeleine Hall-Arber

Figuring Out the Human Dimensions of Fisheries: Illuminating Models

Abstract Both natural scientists and economists commonly use quantitative data to create models of the systems that interest them and then use these models to inform fisheries management. Other social scientists rely on lengthier, descriptive texts based primarily on qualitative data to assess the human dimensions. To their dismay, fisheries social scientists find that much of their rich narrative with keen insights ends up filling pages that are neither read nor meaningfully integrated into decision-making in fisheries management. Nevertheless, what all scientists, practitioners, and managers want and need is information that will lead to a better understanding of the ecosystem (comprised of interdependent ecological and human systems) and therefore to fisheries management that benefits the whole system. Based on the belief that only a combination of high-quality quantitative and qualitative data will provide both the numbers and the context needed for success in ecosystem-based management, we discuss efforts to present social and cultural information in forms that are more familiar to those who rely on models for a representation of reality in the fisheries context. We point out how the designers of these models (or how we) think the models might be applied to fisheries management, noting how each model attempts to incorporate qualitative data to depict context essential for grounding the more commonly used biological and economic models. We also assess the benefits and limitations of these models, including the constraints on their development and use.

Habitat Observed from the Decks of Fishing Vessels

Abstract From the decks of their boats, commercial fishers observe target species, habitat, prey, and changes through time to the environment. Their observations, perceptions, and impressions are colored by their values, culture, and interactions with other fishers. Fishers who are at sea every day hold a vast amount of knowledge; however, their information is considered anecdotal. Motivated by the need to describe essential fish habitat using all available data and information, we surveyed fishers to identify records and other documentation of their observations. Through surveys and focus group meetings, we collected information on fishing gear, seasons and years of fishing experience, types of fish caught, and general observations. We also asked fishers if they kept records of their findings and if they would share that information with fisheries managers. Most fishers indicated they kept some type of record, and 68% were willing to share that information with managers. Another 30% indicated they might ...

Co-Management at the Eleventh Hour? Participation in the Governance of the New England Groundfish Fishery

The process that led to the adoption of the latest amendment to the New England Fishery Management Council’s (NEFMC) Multispecies (groundfish) Fishery Management Plan (FMP) provides an excellent case study of the movement from primarily top-down management to a variation on adaptive co-management. The contributions of a policy entrepreneur and institutional leader to this process are noted as critical. Factors constraining the participation of fishing industry members in the development of groundfish regulations, a brief history of groundfish regulations, and the various combinations of rules offered as options by the Council are reviewed. In response to the harsh criticism and controversy over the degree to which those options would restrict fishing and be likely to devastate communities, the Council offered fishing industry members a last chance to recommend a different combination of management tools — as long as they adhered to the tools that had been discussed at public hearings. Three fishing organisations offered plans that were considered. The Council ultimately selected a plan from the Northeast Seafood Coalition, a broad-based industry group, which emphasises flexible or adaptive mechanisms and optimism for the future. This case suggests that the negotiation of power and authority is important in the context of management in a complex setting with a diverse constituency, and, equally important, communication and outreach are essential elements for change.

Assessing Stakeholder Perspectives on the Impacts of a Decade of Collaborative Fisheries Research in the Gulf of Maine and Georges Bank

Abstract Analysis of the perceptions of commercial fishermen, marine scientists, and other stakeholders of the Gulf of Maine and Georges Bank ecosystem regarding collaborative fisheries research revealed that the benefits of collaboration have been extensive and that a loss of further research opportunities would be consequential. To date, more than 1,000 individuals have participated in research initiatives dedicated to promoting collaboration between scientists and fishermen. A series of eight public meetings were held in the summer of 2008 to determine from fishermen, scientists, and others how this collaboration has affected them, their communities, and the management of important marine resources. Of the 142 attendees, participation was greatest among fishermen (28%) and scientists (24%). The impact of collaborative fisheries research most frequently cited was an increase in the regional capacity to conduct research, utilizing the knowledge and expertise of fishermen and industry vessels as research platforms. Improvements in communication, relationships, and trust between science, industry, and other stakeholders were also lauded. In addition to the social impacts, the economic benefits included enhanced gear efficiency, new fishery opportunities, and help in sustaining fishing operations in times of more restrictive fisheries management. The most frequently cited potential impact of a loss in future funding were probable limits to the capacity of science and management to address local, emerging, or regulatory priorities. Less funding would result in fewer opportunities for stakeholders to work together, build trust, and network. We conclude that because the demands for stakeholder engagement and scientific information will only increase with the global shift toward ecosystem-based management, programs specifically designed to foster collaboration will play a critical role.