Did you know that only an estimated 4% of people who fish are represented in the Marine Protected Area (MPA) Collaborative Network? This small percentage points to a larger issue: many voices in our coastal communities, particularly those who rely on the ocean for sustenance and livelihood, are underrepresented in conversations about ocean access and benefits.
To address this gap, a new survey aims to learn more about who is accessing the ocean and how they benefit from it. This is an opportunity to better tell the story of a marginalized group who fish, harvest, or otherwise depend on the ocean but may not have had their voices heard in decision-making processes.
This underrepresentation has profound implications. Fishing communities often rely on marine resources for their livelihoods and cultural practices. Yet, their limited involvement in the MPA Collaborative Network means their perspectives and needs may not be adequately considered in decision-making processes. This gap can lead to management strategies that inadvertently and incorrectly marginalize these communities, restricting their access to traditional fishing grounds and impacting their well-being.
We think it's important to address this disparity. Enhancing the representation of fishing communities in the MPA Collaborative Network can lead to more equitable and effective ocean management policies. It ensures that those who are most affected by ocean access issues have a voice in shaping the rules and regulations that govern their livelihoods. Moreover, inclusive engagement can foster better compliance with conservation efforts, as communities are more likely to support initiatives that they have helped to create.
To bridge this gap, it is essential to implement targeted outreach and engagement strategies that invite and encourage participation from fishing communities. Providing accessible information, creating opportunities for involvement in decision-making, and actively seeking input can help ensure that ocean resource benefits are shared more equitably. By doing so, we can work towards an ocean governance model that truly represents and serves all stakeholders involved.
Take the survey here and make your voice heard https://ucsantacruz.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8zZY8JXW5lOyar4
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