What are common challenges when developing and implementing a harvest strategy?

November 23, 2024

AuthorSara Pipernos
Program Associate, International Fisheries

1. Funding and time constraints: MSE requires an upfront investment and adequate technical expertise, but it pays off in dividends upon implementation, given the streamlined scientific inputs and pre-agreed management actions.
2. Stakeholder Engagement: Achieving active and inclusive participation from fishers, conservation groups, local communities, and other stakeholders is crucial but challenging. Balancing diverse interests, building consensus, and addressing communication gaps—especially between scientists and managers—can complicate the process.
3. Data Availability and Quality: Reliable data is desirable for creating effective harvest strategies. In many regions, there may be gaps in data collection, issues with data accuracy, or a lack of historical data, which can hinder the development of robust strategies.
4. Adaptation to Environmental Changes: As climate change and other environmental factors alter fish populations and ecosystems, harvest strategies must be adaptable. However, predicting and incorporating these changes into management plans can be complex.
5. Capacity Building: It is essential to build the capacity of local managers, scientists, and stakeholders to understand, implement, and maintain harvest strategies. This requires time, resources, and ongoing support.
6. Compliance and Enforcement: Ensuring that all parties adhere to the agreed-upon harvest strategy can be challenging, particularly in areas with limited resources for monitoring and enforcement.
7. Allocation: Determining how to allocate fishing opportunities or catch limits among different countries, regions, or fishing sectors can be contentious. Disagreements over allocation often stem from historical fishing rights, economic interests, and differing national priorities. Reaching fair and equitable allocation decisions that satisfy all stakeholders can be one of the most challenging aspects of harvest strategy implementation.