Dr. Nancy Knowlton, Moderator DonÕt want to just convey a depressing scenario. Said we need to capitalize on the global crisis, but also try to keep the Ôdoom and gloomÕ at bay while still highlighting the successes. This session will highlight success stories as will a special session IMPAC 2009.
Steven Palumbi: Director, Hopkins Marine Center and Author Dr. Palumbi wrote a book, ÒThe Otter, the Mayor and the Aquarium: How they brought Monterey Bay and Cannery Row Back to Life (Steve Palumbi and Carolyn Sotka, Island Press 2009). He referenced original efforts at establishing a marine protected area. Cited the history of the Monterey Aquarium and how the creation of this aquarium made the ocean relevant to the surrounding community that had been devastated by the loss of its fisheries and the cannery. The aquarium helped to revive the economy through tourism and since then the community has flourished. The biodiversity of marine life matters. Scientists really need to work with the public to provide them with information. As a result of protection, MontereyÕs ecosystems are in better shape than theyÕve been in a hundred years!
Todd Miller (NC Coastal Federation) In NC, we are restoring and protecting habitat. Need to understand hydrology of the region. E.g. North River Farms Restoration Site. Lots of successes, valued at almost $6M dollars.
Greg Stone, Director New England Aquarium Worked in Kiribati, Phoenix Islands and shared the success story of working with the community there. They were willing to work with him because he actually took the time to go back to the island to share with them what the scientists had learned from their research, rather than just forgetting to give back results of the data they collect. What researchers discovered was that the island only collects with 5% of total fish landings/profits. And now, instead of giving fishing licenses and only making 5% of landings, they get money instead, from the New England Aquarium and CI via a trust fund. As a result, the area was allowed to recover. Need to look out across at scaling up MPA Networks and actions on the high seas, which are not captured within the EEZ protections.
Q: Is surveillance/enforcement in place in Kiribati? A: Yes.
Leesa Cobb (Commercial Fisherwoman, Port Orford, OR) Port Orford is a small fishing town trying to hold onto its past, maintaining itÕs identity as a fishing community and not turn into another tourism hotspot. Leesa runs an organization that aims to retain the townÕs connection to the ocean and works to keep the ocean healthy. Interviews were conducted interviews with fishermen to learn what they were observing out in the sea. Graduate students conducted the research and overlayed data on GIS maps. They found out that there is a wealth of data to be gleaned from the fishermen. Conducted fish stock assessments as well as water assessments with the OR Surfrider Foundation chapter. And, in another project, they worked with fishermen to set aside some areas as fully protected by working closely with the fishermen to determine what the boundaries of the MPA should be.
Closing Panel Remarks: The solution is not one size fits all. Each community is unique. If we want healthy oceans we better start with healthy coasts. If we are determined and persistent, we can make a difference, by wearing locally appropriate footwear.
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