Nestled along the captivating shores of Ecuador, the quaint coastal town of Jaramijo offers an ideal setting for our fisheries study. Jaramijo is located in the province of Manabi, just north of Manta, on the edge of the Pacific Ocean. With its rich fishing heritage, breathtaking natural beauty, and vibrant community, Jaramijo presents a unique opportunity to delve into the intricacies of sustainable fishing practices.
Abundance of Marine Biodiversity
Jaramijo, is blessed by its location on the Pacific Ocean, which boasts a diverse and thriving marine ecosystem. The area is home to an array of fish species, including tuna, mahi-mahi, sardines, and anchovies, making it an ideal location to study the intricate dynamics of a productive fishing industry. The region’s rich biodiversity serves as a natural laboratory for understanding the interplay between fish populations, ecological factors, and sustainable fishing practices.
The area’s natural beauty not only enhances the study experience but also serves as a reminder of the urgent need to protect and conserve the delicate balance of the marine ecosystem.
Cultural Significance of Fishing
Fishing has been the lifeblood of Jaramijo for generations, shaping the town’s identity and fostering a strong sense of community. The fishing community in Jaramijo is deeply connected to their marine surroundings, upholding traditional fishing practices while embracing modern techniques. By conducting our study here, we have the privilege of immersing ourselves in a culture that reveres the sea, offering invaluable insights into the social and economic aspects of sustainable fishing.
It’s important to note that the specific fishing practices in Jaramijo can vary depending on factors such as season, target species, and fishing regulations. The local fishing community often adapts their techniques and gear based on the availability of fish species and sustainability considerations.
Artisanal fishermen in Jaramijo often employ traditional fishing techniques that have been passed down through generations. These techniques are typically low-impact and utilize simple tools such as handlines, gillnets, traps, hooks, and small boats. By relying on these traditional methods, fishermen in Jaramijo maintain a connection to their cultural roots and sustainable fishing practices.
Collaborative Community Engagement
One of Jaramijo’s greatest strengths lies in its tightly-knit community. The local fishermen, their families, and other stakeholders are actively engaged in promoting sustainable fishing practices and preserving the marine ecosystem. Their dedication, knowledge, and willingness to collaborate creates a favorable environment for research. By working closely with the fishing community, we can ensure that our study findings are practical, relevant, and can be effectively implemented to benefit both the environment and the community.
During Iluminar El Mar we will be engaging with the community in various ways. Through workshops we will work with the fishermen to understand their most pressing concerns, they views on bycatch and incidental catch, and conduct an excesize on safe species release. The human centreed design study will go further, but answering the question “How valued by Ecuadorian artisanal fishers and stakeholders, is technology that sorts wanted and unwanted catch before hauling?” and “How might this technology be made accessible to sustain livelihoods, fishing stocks and protected species?”. The insights will help inform different models of implementation for a community in such a unique place.
Government Support for Sustainable Fishing
The Ecuadorian government has recognized the importance of sustainable fishing practices in Jaramijo and has implemented policies and regulations to safeguard the marine environment. These initiatives aim to strike a balance between economic development and environmental preservation. By conducting our study in Jaramijo, we can closely observe the outcomes of these policies and contribute to the ongoing efforts to improve fishing practices and ensure the long-term sustainability of the fisheries industry.
Jaramijo, with its abundant marine biodiversity, vibrant fishing community, collaborative engagement, coastal beauty, and government support for sustainable fishing, stands out as an exceptional location for our fisheries study. By immersing ourselves in this coastal haven, we have the opportunity to gain valuable insights into the delicate balance between human activity and the marine ecosystem. Together with the community of Jaramijo, we can work towards fostering sustainable fishing practices that will ensure a prosperous future for both the environment and the livelihoods of those who depend on it.
