A pioneering regional fisheries initiative has developed a series of options that could be a step towards sustainable fisheries in the south west of England.
Invest in Fish South West looked at various fisheries management options to see what effect they would have on fish stocks and the economy of the region. The specially created computer model simulated how actions such as the voluntary decommissioning of fishing fleets or a reduction in net mesh size would impact regional fish stocks, the marine environment and the regional economy over the next 10 years. The report stresses that such measures would need to be implemented across the EU to have a major impact.
The report also states that if nothing is done, the decline in fish stocks could continue with possible cost to the south-west economy and loss of income from lucrative activities such as recreational sea angling staying away from the region.
The unique project, launched in 2004 by HRH The Prince of Wales, is the first of its kind to bring together major regional players in the fishing industry including fishermen, recreational sea anglers, restaurateurs, retailers, scientists, statutory bodies, processors and environmental NGOs. The project used a unique 'bottom-up' approach, seeking advice and building consensus from the fishing community and other stakeholders to find the best solutions to the management of fish stocks and the wider marine environment.
Sam Lambourn, Chairman of the Invest in Fish South West steering group said, “It is hoped that Invest in Fish South West will become a blueprint for similar projects elsewhere in the UK and Europe. The North Western Waters Regional Advisory Council could represent an ideal forum to promote the findings of this unique collaboration and has expressed an interest in finding out how this innovative approach to fisheries management can be applied in a wider context.”
“During the initiative, steering group members have met with the European Parliament Fisheries Committee in Cornwall about their innovative approach to fisheries management, so the political will and interest is there”
Closer to home, the report will also be presented to UK government representatives with a view to taking forward the findings. Invest in Fish South West also makes recommendations on improving governance through participation. The project recommends that for example that a broad range of stakeholders should be included in policy-making through regional Sea Fisheries Committees (SFCs).
With 80% of people in the south-west voicing some level of concern about overfishing, and the state of the marine environment, and supporting sustainability initiatives such as Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certification, the promotion of fish that are less commonly eaten, or even a south-west brand as a label of quality may help address and improve links between south-west fisheries and retailers.
