Using Local Knowledge to Understand Linkages Between Ecosystem Processes, Seagrass Change and Fisheries Productivity to Improve Ecosystem-Based Management

Project Member(s): Barclay, K.

Funding or Partner Organisation: Fisheries Research and Development Corporation RDC (Fisheries Research and Development Corporation - Annual Open Call Funding Round RDC)

Start year: 2013

Summary: We aim to produce a model success story in managing ecosystem related declines in fisheries productivity by fostering collaboration between fishers and management agencies. We intend to protect and enhance fishery productivity, profitability and resilience by aiding the maintenance of a healthy ecosystem. By addressing declines in ecosystem health, we will see the continued viability of a long-running fishery and livelihoods for small scale coastal fishers. The project will empower fishers by valuing their local knowledge to directly inform the Catchment Management Authority on ecosystem management in Corner Inlet. Fishers will benefit by a sustainable future for their fishery, and managers will benefit from accessing tools and targets (conceptual ecosystem models and maps of ecosystem change) for management actions.

Keywords: local ecological knowledge, ecosystem based coastal resource management, seagrass change, fisheries

FOR Codes: Fisheries Management, Coastal and Estuarine Water Management, Aquatic Ecosystem Studies and Stock Assessment, Coastal and Marine Management Policy, Marine and Estuarine Ecology (incl. Marine Ichthyology), Ecosystem Assessment and Management of Coastal and Estuarine Environments, Physical and Chemical Conditions of Water in Coastal and Estuarine Environments, Aquaculture and fisheries stock assessment, Coastal and estuarine systems and management, Terrestrial systems and management