The rise of the scientific fisherman: Mobilising knowledge and negotiating user rights in the Devon inshore brown crab fishery, UK. (March 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Dubois, Mark; Hadjimichael, Maria; Raakjær, Jesper
• Is Part Of: Marine policy. Volume 65(2016)
• Page Start: 48
• Page End: 55
• Publication Date: 2016-03
• Subjects: Mobilising knowledge -- Marine spatial planning -- Scientific citizen -- Stakeholders -- Sustainable use -- Collective action; Marine resources -- Economic aspects -- Periodicals; Fisheries -- Periodicals; Ressources marines -- Aspect économique -- Périodiques; Pêches -- Périodiques; Fisheries; Marine resources -- Economic aspects; Periodicals; 333.916405
• DOI: 10.1016/j.marpol.2015.12.013
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0308-597X

Abstract

Abstract: This article draws on a process of collaborative research associated with the brown crab fishery in Devon, UK. It charts the mobilisation of knowledge in the struggle over 'ownership' and influence in the coastal zone. Using methods from the social and behavioural sciences the article outlines different perspectives on a number of key contestations across the domains of sustainable use and a new conservation agenda ushered in by the introduction of European and UK national marine spatial planning tools for the South Coast of England. Along with their introduction and the 'opening up' of marine space, new opportunities emerge for fishers, who, by building alliances with scientists and managers, and by drawing upon the methods and materials of science, are better able to negotiate for their own interests over access and control of marine resources. The paper concludes by outlining the emergence of a new type of scientifically literate fisherman, a 'political actor with a new crew', better able to implement collective actions towards the sustainable use of brown crab resources. Highlights: The article charts the mobilisation of knowledge in negotiating user rights. Knowledge is used as boundary object and political commodity. Alliances between scientists and fishermen appear increasingly important. Fishermen using scientific resources are potentially better negotiators. The 'scientific fisherman' is emerging as political actor and knowledge agent.