Achieving long-term recreational fisheries sustainability through community-led data collection
Key Facts
FUNDING SCHEME Darwin Plus Local
VALUE £49,844
WHERE British Indian Ocean Territory
Summary
Despite BIOT’s status as a no-take MPA, fishing represents a key recreational activity in Diego Garcia. However, no systematic data collection for shore-based fishing exists making it difficult to assess sustainability and design appropriate management measures. This project will trial community-led voluntary data collection through 25 fisheries ambassadors. Data collected will be used to monitor the spatiotemporal footprint and species-specific landings leading to guidelines for sustainable extraction rates. Our community-led approach will also contribute to increased engagement with fisheries sustainability.
