Using Local Knowledge to Develop a Sustainable Fishery: Insights from Change Islands 

How can local knowledge be used to develop sustainable fisheries management approaches that respond to the needs of small island and remote fishing-dependent communities? Residents and researchers have recently identified major issues affecting fish harvesters and other residents of Change Islands whose livelihood depends on the marine environment. These issues are in four key areas: (1) the continuing impacts of rationalization, (2) regulations that ignore local contexts, (3) the need for improved seafood marketing strategies, and (4) viability of small island communities. How can this knowledge contribute to more collaborative decision-making and recognition of fishing communities and fisherpeople as important partners in maintaining our fishing heritage?

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Maureen Woodrow, PhD, is a sociologist whose interests lie in area of community socio-economic development and related environmental issues and an adjunct professor at the Telfer School of management at the University of Ottawa.  Maureen and her husband are seasonal residents of Change Islands and operate a wholesale and Internet e-commerce artisan business (Stages and Stores, Inc.) and heritage foundation (Stages and Stores Heritage Foundation) on the Islands with the dual objective to create employment and to preserve and promote the unique fishing heritage buildings of one of the last picturesque Newfoundland fishing communities.

Dr. Kelly Vodden is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Geography at Memorial University. Her research focuses on collaborative governance and community and regional development, particularly in rural and small town settings. For more information see: http://www.mun.ca/geog/people/faculty/kvodden.php.

Register Now! For more information, please contact Johan Joesen at the Harris Centre at (709) 864-8418 or johan.joensen@mun.ca.