Community inputs into fisheries resource management. Approach of the Queensland Department of Primary Industries

Abstract

With the heightened awareness of the importance of linkages between the fisheries habitat and fisheries productivity, there is a greater need to involve the community in the decision-making process. Including the community into this process has advantages for both fisheries managers and the community. It serves to reduce conflict and foster a partnership approach to making tough environmental decisions. With the community being an integral part of the process, they become more informed about the terms and conditions of fisheries approvals. There is a better probability of successful fisheries management because the community is empowered with the information and the motivation to be the watchdog of the resource.