Title: A CASE STUDY OF ECOSYSTEM-BASED FISHERIES MANAGEMENT IN PUERTO RICO: THE IDEAL AND THE REAL

Abstract: Ecosystem-based fisheries management (EBFM) is gaining popularity as an alternative to traditional fisheries management approaches. In western Puerto Rico, the Abrir La Sierra, Bajo de Sico, and Tourmaline (ABT) Spawning Aggregation Areas share management between Puerto Rico and the Caribbean Fishery Management Council. Included within the boundaries of ABT are areas of ecological, social, and economic importance, including mesophotic reefs, multi-species spawning grounds, and traditional fishing areas, making the ABT an optimal candidate for EBFM. To advance EBFM in ABT, new management approaches were recently proposed for these areas, which have been traditionally managed by focusing on single species or particular habitats. However, due to competing interests from multiple user groups, fear of loss of resource access, the perception that there is not enough background information to justify changes in management, and a lack of interest for compromising or addressing trade-offs within the ecosystem, the proposal was unsuccessful. This outcome demonstrates the difficulties and challenges of advancing EBFM in the U.S. Caribbean. We discuss why, even when National Marine Fisheries Service EBFM policy is established, it may be difficult to implement because of the current management framework and the constraints inherent in that management. We also discuss communication difficulties within a cross-cultural environment, and the steps that fisheries managers and constituents are taking to resolve these difficulties and advance the application of EBFM in U.S. Caribbean waters.

Authors: López-Rivera MM, Arnold WS

Presentation: Oral

Session: 61

Date: 06/20/16

Time: 11:15

Location: 305 A/B

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