Participatory fisheries monitoring
Participatory methodologies to collect information
Participatory fisheries monitoring
Devolviendo Resultados
Annisamyd del Cid
Over 25 communities in three countries, involving over 2000 fishers, have participated actively in this monitoring process for over 4 years. Young people were selected and trained in monitoring techniques and data compilation to identify species, measure length and weight and describe the gear used, capture location, and other variables.
It was key to demonstrate the value of the process to fishermen to whom information was being returned and who benefit from this information. Keeping very low operational costs allows the program to run for several years. Simple methods and local people helped in keeping costs low. Having a fisheries expert to interpret and synthesize the data collected allows for better assessment of information.
Engaging young people from fishing communities developed greater public interest in the data collected and in the status of the fishery resources.
Using simple techniques to measure variables such as weight and size proved to be highly efficient.
Simple methods and youth participation reduced costs of the monitoring program, making it more economical than traditional monitoring, which requires technical graduates.
Returning results to the fishing community allows them to understand the value of monitoring and what is happening with the fish resources in their area.
Keeping monitoring for several years generated information critical to delineate areas of artisanal fisheries and protected areas and to support the development of a responsible fishing program.