Development of a Fisher’s Training and Education Program

for Puerto RicoCarlos J. Velazquez

President, Asociación de Pescadores Unidos de Playa Húcares in Naguabo, Puerto Rico

CFMC 147th Council meeting, Ponce HiltonPonce, Puerto Rico

August 14, 2013

April 2-4, 2013: Participated in the Gulf of Maine Research Institute (GMRI) - Marine Resource Education Program• Professional development program for fishers• 2 full days of capacity building workshops: theoretical and

practical• Information exchange between scientists, fishers

and individuals from the fishing industry

business (eg. charter boats, captains,

kayakers, restaurant owners)…

Background

April 2-4, 2013: Participated in the Gulf of Maine Research Institute (GMRI) - Marine Resource Education Program

• Offered twice a year – different workshop agendas• Topics covered in the April workshop: Stock assessment,

sample and survey methods, population biology, bycatch

avoidance strategy, others…

Background

Why develop a similar program in Puerto Rico?

Need for capacity building programs and workshops for: Commercial fishers Recreational fishersSport FishersOthers involved in the fishing industry.

Why develop a similar program in Puerto Rico?

To help:Develop a better understanding of science and

management tools used to regulate the fisheriesOpen channels of communication between fishers

and scientific professionalsAddress various stakeholder needs

Recommendations

Develop a Fisher’s training program for Puerto Rico modeled after the GMRI educational program

Identify stakeholders and stakeholder needsCommercial FishersRecreational FishersSport fishersOthers involved in the fishery industry

Identify community leaders

• Caribbean Fishery Management Council

• Puerto Rico Department of Natural and Environmental Resources

• Puerto Rico Department of Agriculture

• Department of Health

• US Coast Guard

• FURA

• US Customs

Recommendations

• Sea Grant, UPRM

• Department of Marine Sciences, UPR-Mayaguez

• Department of Marine Sciences, UPR-Humacao

• Interamerican University, Fajardo Campus

Identify potential collaborative partners

Thank You!Questions?