Fishers' and scientists' social-ecological knowledge and Newfoundland's capelin fisheries

Morris-Jenkins, Melanie (2003) Fishers' and scientists' social-ecological knowledge and Newfoundland's capelin fisheries. Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

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Abstract

Using a case study of the Newfoundland capelin fisheries, this thesis explores the potential benefits of a social-ecological approach to gathering fishers' knowledge, analyzing both fishers' and scientists' knowledge, and attempting to integrate insights from both knowledge forms. In doing so, the thesis employs data from two types of personal interviews with fishers, as well as findings from scientific studies, to highlight points of both agreement and disagreement between fishers and scientists on four major issues that were forefront in the Newfoundland capelin fishery in the 1990s. Using a social-ecological approach to knowledge, possible reasons are posed to understand why scientists and fishers disagree with each other and why some fishers disagree with others. -- The thesis demonstrates that this approach to understanding fishers' and scientists' knowledge is essential for projects that aim to critically assess and effectively integrate insights from these different sources. The thesis also sheds light on areas of scientific research that may require further research and analysis and proposes a series of policy recommendations that may strengthen future collaborative efforts that aim to integrate fishers' and fisheries scientists' knowledge.

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