Aiming for By-Catch: Collaborative Monitoring of Rare and Migratory Species in the Wadden Sea

Abstract

The underlying motivation for this case study was to find ways to support the existing scientific monitoring system of the Wadden Sea by drawing upon fishermen’s experiences, expertise and the information they collect. It was intended that this knowledge would contribute to a species inventory, and the designation of rare/migratory species of fish in particular, thus making a valuable contribution to monitoring the environmental status of the Wadden Sea. Collaborative working between fishermen and scientists was effective at closing important knowledge gaps about the prevalence of rare species and ways to reduce bycatch. At the same time, the project contributed towards raising fishermen’s awareness on different nature conservation aspects of the Wadden Sea. The preliminary results of this study demonstrate a potential approach that could be used to establish a more comprehensive monitoring program. Other positive results include the design of a ‘different type of science’, as well as gaining of fishermen’s trust, which has been important in sustaining continued close collaboration in new projects such as ‘Sustain Seafood’