FishPath

About FishPath

Across the globe, marine fish and fisheries provide essential animal protein to nearly 3 billion people, contribute to employment of about 10 percent of the world’s population, and play an important role in marine ecosystems.

Despite the clear ecological, social, and economic importance of marine fisheries, many fisheries are ineffectively managed, leading to declines in ocean health, food insecurity, and economic loss. Limitations in data and capacity can present major challenges to effective fisheries management.For example, around 30% of all fisheries around the world are being overfished or are in decline, limiting the ability of ecosystems to provide services or recover from stresses, such as climate change, and endangering livelihoods of people who depend on seafood.

How FishPath Works

The FishPath tool guides users through a series of questions regarding economic, operational, biological, ecological and governance characteristics of the fishery. User answers are applied to a decision framework that matches responses to all available data collection, assessment, and management measure options. The tool highlights the relevant caveats, assumptions, and challenges of implementing each option so users can fully consider the realities of implementation and determine the best approach for their fishery. Users can also learn about each option through resources and links. New options are periodically added to ensure contemporaneity.