#BOF17

FISHERIES SCIENTISTS AND MANAGERS MEET TO DISCUSS PRESSING SUSTAINABILITY ISSUES IN THEIR FISHERIES

This was the inaugural Sustainable Fisheries Education Programme event, and marked the launch of a new service for the UK fishing industry. Many years in the planning, the event was graced by the presence of HRH the Prince of Wales, who was been personally involved in the development of the SFEP from the outset through his International Sustainability Unit.

The workshop was delivered at a crucial time, with the future of Scottish fisheries in the balance. We brought together a wide range of fishermen from all sectors to discuss issues of importance to them, setting up residence for 3 days alongside fisheries scientists, managers and other professionals. 

The course was built with the help of fishermen, following strong investment by the industry itself. It provided fishermen with practical tools to better understand fisheries science and management. No in-depth scientific knowledge was needed; just an open mind and a willing spirit.

The programme focused on quota-based fisheries in Scotland and North East England – those fisheries reliant on scientific advice from ICES. Fishermen from all sectors were welcome – a unique great opportunity to learn from each other.

PROJECT TEAM CONTACTS

Mike Park (SWFPA) on 07710504773

Kenny Coull (SWFPA) on 07718483600

Derek Cardno (SFF) on 01224 646944 or 07545 429314

Jim Masters (FITF) on 01803 659219 or 07900244507

#BOF 2017

Day 1:

Introduction to Marine Science and Oceanography (Professor Bill Turrell – Marine Scotland Science)

Fishery Sampling and Data Collection (Dr Steve Mackinson – Scottish Pelagic Fishermen’s Association)

Fish Biology and Sustainability (Dr Tara Marshall – University of St. Andrews)

Group Activity – Swept Area Survey Planning (Dr Steve Mackinson – SPFA)

Day 2:

Stock Assessment and Modelling Overview (Coby Needle – Marine Scotland Science)

Biological Reference Points and Setting TACs (Alan Gibb – Marine Scotland Science)

Governance and How to Get Involved (Mike Park – CEO, Scottish White Fish Producer’s Organisation)

Reviewing Stock Assessment Sheets (Group Activity – Kieran Kelly, Marine Institute, Northern Ireland)

Day 3:

Economics and Social Science Considerations (Hazel Curtis – Seafish)

Conservation in Action (Rory Crawford – RSPB)

Markets as Drivers (David Parker – Young’s Seafood)

“I will be telling fishermen this is definitely a course they should be attending – it puts them right in the picture”. Donald Anderson – Fishermen, Oban

“In the 34 years I’ve been a fisherman, we’ve never been taught how fisheries are managed, and how science interacts with the fishing. I’ve been waiting a long time for a course like this to come along, and it’ll make a real difference to the next generation of fishermen”.  Mark Robertson – Fisherman, Fraserburgh

“Fishing is a complex business and science is pivotal. This course puts the science and management of fisheries into context”. Derek Cardno – Scottish Fishermen’s Federation

“The practical survey exercise was really good as it broke up the theory and it was hands on.”

“There was loads of opportunity to ask questions and all questions were answered really well, it also helps the industry interact with the scientists.”

“That people actually do listen to fisherman and do try and help us.”

“I found the scale and complexity of a survey very interesting.”

“Fishing science is the one part of the sector where my knowledge was very limited until this course. I feel that I have taken a little from each speaker and gained a far larger understanding.”

The Sustainable Fisheries’ Education Programme (SFEP) has been set up by fishermen, scientists and managers in response to a call from within the industry itself for a better understanding of fisheries science and management. This reflects a growing commitment to sustainable fishing and the need for durable bridges of trust to be built between fishermen, scientists and managers. This takes place in a neutral setting, where fisheries professionals come together to explore differences, find common ground and share experiences away from the glare of formal management.

The objectives of the Sustainable Fisheries’ Education Programme (SFEP) are to:

• Increase the number of individuals at work in UK fisheries who are comfortable navigating fisheries data and management systems.
• Build bridges of trust and respect between fishermen, fisheries scientists and managers
• Develop leaders in the fishing industry
• Empower fishermen to contribute fully to the development of best available science.
• Bring fishermen, scientists and managers together in a neutral setting to explore differences as well as common goals.