Abstract

The establishment of MPAs has proved to be a successful strategy in implementing conservation and sustainable use polices. However, identifying economically viable and culturally acceptable alternative livelihoods for affected users is a challenge. In the case of the Seaflower MPA, CORALINA explored several options to be offered to artisanal fishermen in compensation for their support to the implementation of no-take zones and other fisheries management restrictions. One the most promising activities is the development of recreational fishing, a new practice in the San Andres archipelago. Because the archipelago is comprised by small islands, and have an economy based on the tourism industry, the recreational fishing offers both keep fishers at sea while engage them with tourists. Considering that recreational fishers requires special abilities and techniques, the need for specialized training is the first step towards proper development of the activity. The training needs to address topics such as fishing gear, de-hooking, barotrauma, safety, and how to deal with tourists, all new for topics for traditional anglers. Therefore, CORALINA and Blue Dream Ltd supported by UNEP-CEP-SPAW-RAC conducted in 2014 a theoretical and practical training covering these issues, with great success. The implementation of this alternative focused an enthusiastic subset of fishers, selected by them, whose will receive further training and will operate a new and equipped boat for which CORALINA secured additional funds from the national government. MPA users perceive the development of the regulated recreational fishery as an interesting alternative to open opportunities to work collaboratively at local, national, and international levels.

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