Oceans need broader management perspective p2 of 2

The authors of the Pew Commission report propose a new approach to fishery management based on a commitment to understanding and monitoring ocean ecosystems, and a proactive and adaptive approach founded on ecosystem based planning and marine zoning. This methodology would reorient fishery and ocean management programs toward the primary goal of protecting natural resources.

The recommended approach would require an increased investment in ecosystem research and monitoring to address the tradeoffs that result from fisheries management
decisions. Successful management must also move from the
current single species model to one that considers the entire
ecosystem, the report advises.
"Poor information on bycatch, discarding, and basic life history
are the bane of fisheries scientists," said Dr. Coleman. "Couple
this with ineffective regulations, nonexistent brakes on
developing capacity, and inadequate support of law enforcement,
and disaster ensues.""If we are to ensure sustainable fisheries -
both commercial and recreational - we must shift fishery
management's emphasis from a single species approach focused
on short term benefits to an integrated approach that
acknowledges the tradeoffs we are willing to accept in
our choice of management options," Coleman added.

Bottom trawlers, which drag weighted nets across the ocean
floor, can do permanent damage to ocean habitats.

(Photo by Allen Shimada, courtesy NMFS)

The Pew Oceans Commission is conducting the first review in more than 30 years of the policies and laws needed to sustain and restore living marine resources. The Commission includes leaders from the worlds of science, fishing, conservation, business and politics.
For the past two years, Commission members have traveled to coastal communities to talk to people about the problems facing the world's oceans and to explore new ways to address them. "Ecological Effects of Fishing" is the latest in a series of reports prepared for the Commission to inform their deliberations. Previous reports covered marine pollution, coastal sprawl, introduced species, and aquaculture.
The Commission plans to release additional reports and white papers on fishery management, marine reserves, and the economics of fishing in the coming weeks. The group will present its final recommendations for a new national ocean policy to Congress and the nation in early 2003.
The full report, "Ecological Effects of Fishing in Marine Ecosystems of the United States," is available at:
http://www.pewoceans.org/reports/POC_EcoEffcts_Rep2.pdf

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