Cooperative members use several methods to catch lobster including shades, traps and diving on the reef. Shades and traps are used away from the reef and are less destructive to the coral habitat than traditional diving techniques. Increased use of traps and shades would draw fishers away from the coral reef of the BBRRS WHS and relieve some of the pressure on the reef?s biodiversity. Training and capacity-building will help fishermen of Placencia, Independence, and Monkey River understand conservation issues and become more involved in conservation of the reef?s natural resources.
The goal of this project is to provide an opportunity for fishermen of Placencia Producers Co-operative to make a living from lobster fishing in the long term by using more sustainable techniques and, at the same time, reducing human impacts on BBRRS WHS. This project will provide
1. 900 traps for 15 members of the Co-op,
2. an educational exchange visit for Placencia fishermen to Punta Allen, Quintana Roo, Mexico
3. 870 shades for 29 members of the Co-op,
4. training in lobster biology and conservation,
5. data collection on lobster population, and
6. institutional strengthening for the Co-operative.