Socio-ecological analysis of the pelagic system of the northwest Mediterranean Sea, focusing on the dynamics of small pelagic fish - Summary of the workshop

The general objective of the workshop was to create a dialogue between stakeholders of the pelagic system of the Northwest Mediterranean Sea (fishers, managers, NGO and scientists); focusing on the dynamics of small commercial pelagic fish (targeting sardine and anchovy) and the fishing activity associated with them. The workshop started with a scientific overview of the current knowledge derived from several research projects (e.g., EU Spelmed, Spanish Plan Estatal Pelweb). Then, factors and processes that may be affecting our understanding of the dynamics of the pelagic system were identified. Finally, stakeholders mentioned and discussed several proposals to improve the management of the fishing resources. The analysis was done from an ecological, social, economic and fisheries management perspective. All the information was integrated using qualitative network modelling techniques with the assistance of Dr. Jeffrey Dambacher, from the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), (Tasmania, Australia). Sixteen stakeholders representing the fisheries sector, scientific institutions, environmental organizations and the regional administration participated in the workshop