The role of fisher engagement in the acceptance of turtle excluder devices in Georgia's shrimping industry

Abstract

Abstract The “Georgia Jumper” turtle excluder device (TED) is a rare example of a well-accepted conservation tool required by regulation. Mediated by the UGA Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant, Georgia's shrimping industry was integral to the design, revision, and implementation of excluder devices, since the earliest “jellyball shooter” proposed to NMFS in 1980. This paper highlights fisher involvement in the creation of the popular “Georgia Jumper” TED. Both the Diffusion of Innovation and the Traditional Ecological Knowledge literatures stress the importance of meaningful engagement of user communities in the development of new management approaches, and make specific recommendations for improving uptake of new methods. Consistent with literature expectations, fisher and industry participation in the development, testing, and implementation of TEDs has been key to the general acceptance of TEDs in Georgia. This paper illustrates the importance of fisher participation in conservation efforts such as these.