INSTANCES WHEN WE WOULD WANT TO CONSIDER EBFM

Are there particular examples where it would make sense to consider a broader, more holistic ecosystem perspective? Here I present some case studies that, combined, may provide some general guidance on the types of situations where using an EBFM would be useful, if not essential. These examples serve as rudimentary cases where EBFM has begun to become operational. In many instances this operationalization was not systematic nor intentional, but a result of being forced to deal with competing interests simultaneously in a given situation.

The example case studies presented here are global in extent – geographically, oceanographically, and scientifically speaking. They cover a broad range of topics, including environmental factors, ecological interactions, multispecies considerations, and full system issues. They are by no means meant to be exhaustive; rather they were chosen to be illustrative of the kinds of instances where EBFM (and more broadly, EBM) is requisite to satisfactorily manage the LMRs in these ecosystems.

As we examine these case studies, which criteria come to mind that are worth noting? How do they address some of the issues raised in Table 4.1? What items might be important (or even critical) to consider for implementing an EAM? Here I will present instances from a SS perspective with ecosystem considerations, and from a systemic perspective with a fisheries emphasis.