Abstract

Bycatch is a signification problem that limits progress in reaching sustainability and conservation goals. Most bycatch reduction initiatives do not obtain widespread, long-term, and proper use of bycatch reduction devices (BRDs). Further-more, there is no model for bycatch reduction initiatives that have consistently succeeded in securing the adoption of BRDs. This keynote draws on 20 years of research into extension programs to promote the adoption of BRDs, such as turtle excluder devices, circle hooks, and various dolphin BRDs, in the United States, Costa Rica, Ecuador, and elsewhere. It highlights empirically derived practices that could improve the level of BRD adoption. These practices include using the Successful Fisher/Inventor profile to identify fisheries partners most likely to develop effective, commercially acceptable BRDs. Another practice is leveraging the Local Inventor Effect to increase the adoption of locally created or modified BRDs. The presentation will discuss the importance of addressing fishers’ affective (i.e., emotional) readiness for change. It also will delve into how Diffusion of Innovation, which has been an successful approach for securing adoption in other fields, can be more widely applied within fisheries extension to promote the adoption of BRDs.

PDF Preview