Ecosystem-Based Fishery Management: It’s Not as Daunting as Some Think

Despite increasing scientific clarity on what constitutes Ecosystem-Based Fishery Management (EBFM), a concept which has been discussed for decades, its translation into policy continues to face hurdles. EBFM sounds important, managers say, but what does it really mean for us and how does it benefit the management of our fisheries?  Fishermen can be wary, especially when EBFM is not clearly defined or when it is presented as a revolution instead of an evolution of incremental steps that many fishermen already support. We will bring together scientists, managers, and fishing stakeholders who are working at the forefront of EBFM to explore current successful efforts that incorporate ecosystem science into management action, and to consider some “shovel-ready” science that is ripe for application.