Discrete choice modelling of fisheries with nuanced spatial information. (October 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Hynes, Stephen; Gerritsen, Hans; Breen, Benjamin; Johnson, Mark
• Is Part Of: Marine policy. Volume 72(2016)
• Page Start: 156
• Page End: 165
• Publication Date: 2016-10
• Subjects: Discrete fisheries site choice model -- Ecosystem based fisheries management -- Random parameters logit -- Marine protected areas -- Fishing ground closure -- Demersal otter trawlers; 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.2016.07.004
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0308-597X

Abstract

Abstract: Temporary marine area closures or more permanent Marine Protected Areas are being proposed as potential options in ecosystem-based marine spatial management. These policy options are known to displace fishing effort. In this paper, EU Vessel Monitoring System (VMS) data is combined with other site and vessel information and used to model the fishing site choice decision of Irish demersal otter trawlers. Uniquely, the fishing ground options used in the analysis reflect the actual seabed contours trawled by the fleet. The fishing site choice model, based on this natural site definition is compared to an alternative destination choice model where the fleet decision is specified using a grid based site definition as employed in previous work. It is argued that the natural site specification is a more realistic specification of the fisher site choice decision. Using the preferred natural fishing site choice model, a policy scenario involving the hypothetical closure of one of the fishing ground options is then simulated to examine the possible redistribution of fishing effort. Highlights: Model uses site definitions that reflect true shape of fishing grounds. EU Vessel Monitoring System (VMS) is used to model the fishing site choice. Using the natural site definition means a less complex choice modelling situation. Fishing effect is displaced to near grounds following hypothetical closure of site.