Fishers and other resource users are often the target group when developing and implementing conservation and management actions but are not always involved in the research process. This exclusion, even if unintentional, can lead to distrust in scientific findings or a lack of support for conservation actions. Involving fishers from the start of the research process, by centering projects on fisher questions and collaborating on data collection, can lead to more successful outcomes. Through open communication and involvement, respect for fisher knowledge, and the co-production of new knowledge, fishers become advocates for conservation instead of the targets of it. This session will highlight examples of effective collaborations with fishers and other resource users, and strategies for achieving desired outcomes for multiple stakeholder groups.
Organizer: Eric Schneider, Cape Eleuthera Institute, [email protected]
Supported by: Cape Eleuthera Institute