*** 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.
Hi Shanzeh, I think this is a great post! I've heard the phrase "Truth and Reconciliation" countless times now as it's been told to us since high school. However, I never thought that I could do anything to help as a student. I think if we talk about this more often, it will become a more and more relevant issue for decision-makers to provide a more just future for every community.
Loved this post!!! I also found the topic on halibut fisheries extremely thought provoking, but rather difficult to organize all these thoughts into a single post. You definitely encapsulated all the main points that need to be talked about. Your last sentence really resonated with me because i think this is one of the larger issues in regards to this topic. The fact the IVQ market was open internationally introduces a lot of competition into these local matters and it makes me think why are we not doing something to help even the playing ground for long time owners of individual vessel quotas (specifically long time owners being the lesser wealthy resident indigenous populations)
Great insight! I found that fisheries regulations tend only care about fish stocks, but there is no consideration of the communities of the fish. Sure IVQ is good at controlling halibut fish stock and to make sure the population sustain, but when factoring a capitalist market, the indigenous and costal communities, who probably have been managing halibut stocks themselves for thousands and years, get the short end of the stick.
Communication is definitely key!!!!!! Just look at the story of the reintroduction of sea otters and how they affected the First Nations!
Great example based on the research article! I'm wondering if the reason for younger fishermen/women is based on the fact that these licenses are becoming rare and expensive? As such, the initial investment getting into commercial fishing (cost of licenses, boat, equipment etc.) is too high to justify the economic returns that are given back.
I love that you took the time to do further research into the value of fishing in the communities we talked about. Thank you for providing more on that perspective. Really great post!
I agree that collaboration and consultation with local communities should heavily impact decision making, as they will be the ones that ultimately are most affected.