Approximately 9,000 families that depend on the Spiny Lobster (Panulirus argus) fishery in The Bahamas. On average this fishery is valued between US$65-95 million per year. There are several regulations in place that manages the fishery including and eight month open season and size limits. However despite regulations local fishermen continued to disregard the laws that regulate the harvesting of lobsters with tails measuring less than 5 ½ inches. During the campaign planning many fishermen claimed this problem existed as many fishers lacked motivation and the tools needed to prevent this practice from occurring. The 'Size Matters' campaign was launched to educate fishermen in sustainable fishing methods as well as distribute measuring gauges.

This project was funded by Rare, the Global Environment Facility Small Grants Program, implemented by UNDP and local partners in The Bahamas.

What makes it Bright?

• Fishermen felt empowered to regulate themselves by using the appropriate tools
• The momentum of the project continued to offer messages to get fishers to move to action and protect their local resources
• The campaign provided a platform for resource users, policy makers, conservation groups and commercial industry to come together in unison with one common goal of eliminating the threat of illegal undersize fishing and allow discussions for improved management strategies

Country: The Bahamas
Organization: ECOnnect Ltd. and Friends of the Environment
Focal Point: d'Shan Maycock, President of ECOnnect Ltd., This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.