Understanding Fisher’s Perceived Constraints on Adaptive Capacity within the California Market Squid Fishery Relative to Management Adaptation Plans

Undergraduate Honors Thesis

Citations

Citeable URL: https://scholar.colorado.edu/concern/undergraduate_honors_theses/8w32r752n

Abstract

Changes in marine ecosystems and oceanic conditions due to climate change significantly impact those whose livelihoods depend on fishing. Building up fishers' adaptive capacity allows them the opportunity to respond to such environmental changes effectively. However, fishers often perceive their adaptive capacity to be constrained, thereby limiting adaptive behavior and investments. Here, I unpack, assess, and identify potential strategies to overcome these perceived constraints within the context of the California market squid fishery. Through a mixed-methods approach consisting of a literature review, analyzing regulatory documents and content of council meetings, landings data, and meetings with management representatives, I answered how management regulations constrain market squid fishers’ perceptions of their adaptive capacity. While most of the constraints perceived by market squid fishers are corroborated by data, there are potential solutions to overcome these constraints. Furthermore, there are other opportunities to help squid fishers, such as expanded fishing insurance, federal programs that supplement fisher income, and adjusting and improving fishery management regulations.

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