How can we act on the
realistic options while
protecting the resources
and ecosystems?
Krista Baker
PhD Student
Memorial University
Integration of science into
decision-making: Example
• Shelf fisheries began to collapse
• Deep-sea habitats attracted attention
• Science aimed at understanding
ecosystem not planning for commercial
exploitation
• Science not incorporated into decisionmaking
Economic development
without the integration of
science
Haedrich et al. (2001)
Deep-sea fish populations
decline …
-96%
Local knowledge and
decision-making
• Included throughout entire process
– Success depends on compliance
compliance depends on trust & respect
• No exact method
– Each community is different
Politics, economics, and
science (ensuring sustainable
use of resources)
• Common goals
• Politicians represent their communities
• Education and constant dialogue is key
• Make uncertainties clear
Acknowledgements
• Centre for Coastal Studies (Simon
Fraser University)
• Dr. Richard Haedrich & Jeni Devine