Problems of coastal fishing from the perspective of social actors: the case of the Tres Palos lagoon

Abstract

The fragility of coastal fishing localities in southern Mexico faces a series of threats that threaten the sustainability of this practice. The objective was to characterize socio-environmental problems and critical points for coastal fishing in the lagoon of Tres Palos, Guerrero, Mexico. The methodology was used with a qualitative approach through grounded theory and participatory cartography, using the techniques of mapping key actors, participatory workshops and expert opinion, the data were analyzed through semantic networks and a collective social map. The results indicated: contamination of water resources, lack of fisheries management and lack of participation and confidence of fishermen, which has caused the uncertainty and vulnerability of coastal communities, overexploitation of fishery resources and degradation of the ecosystem and habitat. It was concluded that socio-ecosystem development for coastal communities requires areas of opportunity that contemplate their participation in decision-making, in order to implement effective public policies to ensure the medium and long-term sustainability of aquatic, terrestrial and coastal zone resources as a whole.