Biological perspectives on complexities of fisheries co-management: A case study of Newfoundland and Labrador snow crab

Abstract

A thrust toward fisheries co-management systems occurred globally throughout the 1990s. This was partially influenced by the collapse of groundfish stocks including the iconic northern cod and other fisheries resources in Newfoundland and Labrador (NL). The management system for NL snow crab burgeoned during this period, largely in the absence of biological information for the resource. There is a high volume of theoretical literature advocating for the benefits of fisheries co-management, but little documented perspectives from fisheries scientists actively engaged in such management systems, nor literature detailing how co-management regimes could affect scientific research or assessment programs. In this paper, in context of a large fishery, we provide specific examples of how co-management processes can influence scientific research and monitoring programs and the biological functioning of important marine resources. We undertake critical evaluation on topics including spatial scales of management, fishery timing, fishery closures, collaborative research, and harvester perceptions of stock size. We conclude there are both scientific advantages and disadvantages to operating within co-management systems, but that the NL snow crab management system has evolved to promote processes problematic to provision of the best possible science advice. We conclude that adaptive co-management measures are required to address several current challenges in order to maximize scientific value within this system. In general, the paper demonstrates how flexibility is needed by all partners involved in resource co-management systems to adapt to fundamental scientific principles inherent in changing methodologies and the generation of knowledge.