Emily Orr
Executive Director
T. Buck Suzuki Environmental Foundation
Integrating the hands-on experience of fish harvesters into Marine Planning is essential. Harvesters have a necessarily close and consistent relationship with marine species and ecosystems, are themselves stewards of oceans and fisheries, and are arguably the most heavily impacted by changes in policy and management. With a vested interest in promoting the health of fish stocks and marine ecosystems, harvesters rely on sound management practices for the viability of their fishing operations, their livelihoods, and their adjacent communities.
In addition to contributing extensive knowledge based in direct experience, harvesters present a valuable opportunity for data collection while at sea. Coordinating and strengthening the relationship between fisheries science and harvest communities is a theme that is foundational to the work of TBuck, and one that should be well promoted in the development of new marine planning strategies as we refine and progress the way our oceans and resources are managed.