*** Please note that this post was a bit rushed so I apologize in advance for any grammar mistakes! ***
One of the stories that I found most intriguing and thought-provoking in class was that of the halibut fisheries in British Columbia. Although we spent a limited amount of time discussing this story, it’s obvious that the implementation of individual vessel quotas had a profound impact on fishing communities, but more importantly on licensed halibut fisherman. A study conducted by Casey et al. in 1994 examined the effects of the IVQ’s. During interviews, the research team found that some fishermen felt more secure and prepared for retirement, while young individuals were becoming more reluctant to get into the fishing industry.
Based on this context, I envision a future where collaboration, communication and consultation are emphasized and used as tools in policy development and decision-making. Casey et al. concluded that under the “quota transfer restrictions, fishermen cannot acquire enough quota to make halibut fishing their sole source of income and hence for most boats, halibut fishing is still a supplemental fishery to salmon ” (Casey et al, 229). To me, this quote illustrates the importance of considering the local communities and community members (in this case fishermen and their communities) before implementing complex policies. I also found it surprising how the IVQ market was open internationally (correct me if I'm wrong) and this allow international companies or wealthy individuals to internationally interfere in such a local matter.