Volume 55

Understanding the Texas Shrimping Industry Using Social and Economic Indicators


Authors
Anderson, D.K.; Ditton, R.B.; Riechers, R.K.
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Date: 2004


Pages: 78-89


Event: Proceedings of the Fifty Fifth Annual Gulf and Caribbean Fisheries Institute


City: Xel Ha


Country: Mexico

Abstract

Shrimping is big business in Texas. In 2001, commercial landings of all shrimp species totaled 37,326.3 metric tons with a value of US$195,006,060. This, however, does not mean that Texas shrimpers are having an "easy time of it." In its 2001 session, the Texas Legislature mandated a study of the shrimp industry and its fishery resources, including the "social and economic health" of the industry. To fulfill these requirements, a mail survey was conducted of all Texas shrimp fishers that held a Gulf, bay, and/or bait shrimp license in 2001. Rather than trying to get detailed business information from each licensee, an indicator approach was used to gauge how the industry was doingin social and economic terms. Questions that would yield conclusions regarding the health of the industry were asked in an effort to not be too obtrusive. Some reported their operation was profitable (49 %) but indicators showed the industry and its participants may be economically marginal. For example, 47 % indicated they did not have insurance for themselves or their families and 63 % reported no insurance on their primary boat. Further, 83 % would not encourage young people to enter the shrimping business. Almost one-half (48 %) reported a gross household income of less than US$40,000. Results on other variables were fairly consistent with those from previous social science studies of the shrimping industry in the region.

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