Enhancing Marine Conservation through Adaptive Management in the Northern Shelf Bioregion MPA Network: Insights from a Commercial Fisherman
Standard
IOF SEMINAR – February 16, 2024
Enhancing Marine Conservation through Adaptive Management in the Northern Shelf Bioregion MPA Network: Insights from a Commercial Fisherman
This seminar explores the perspective of a small-scale commercial fisherman operating within the Northern Shelf Bioregion in British Columbia regarding the implementation of static conservation models in a dynamic ecological system. The existing approach to MPA implementation is limited by siloed governance structures and the lack of stakeholder insight on localized impacts of climate change, migratory species dynamics, and fisheries management. This talk will describe the importance of incorporating local knowledge into decision-making processes, fostering integration with existing fisheries management, and promoting adaptive conservation strategies that consider ecological variability and uncertainty. The nuanced experience and insight of local fisher’s highlights the critical role of stakeholders in balancing political objectives, conservation, food security, and the sustainability of coastal economies. This approach advocates for a holistic coastal management framework that enhances ecological resilience, supports coastal economies, and ensures the long-term sustainability of marine resources in the Northern Shelf Bioregion.