Volume 65
St. Thomas Fishermen’s Association: Involving Fishermen in Fishery Management
Authors
Magras, J. and D. Olsen Download PDF Open PDF in BrowserOther Information
Date: November, 2012
Pages: 48 - 51
Event: Proceedings of the Sixty-Fifth Annual Gulf and Caribbean Fisheries Institute
City: Santa Marta
Country: Colombia
Abstract
The St. Thomas Fishermens Association (STFA) was formed in 2005 when fishery management authorities proposed to close significant areas of St. Thomas shelf to fishing. The STFA was able negotiate seasonal closures as a substitute for the proposed areal closures. STFA members catch around 80% of the fish trap catch and 95% of the spiny lobster catch in St. Thomas. Since its formation STFA members have been appointed to the Scientific and Advisory panels of the Caribbean Fishery Management Council, the Territorial Fishery Advisory Committee and testified twice to the United States Congress on fishery management issues. In addition, in collaboration with NOAA agencies and through direct grants, the STFA has carried out scientific studies in support of fishery management. STFA members are now well informed, involved and participating in management of their fisheries.