Posted by G Man on April 26, 2002 at 13:23:01:
This is a terrible tragedy, which I think has sparked one of the most interesting debates on the board in years.
I can certainly understand the concerns many feel over the presence of the shark in swimming waters, as well as the perception that the shark may have effected the bottom and sport fishing on the bay side. I however, will throw in with those who feel sorry for the shark and its un-born offspring.
While I understand the importance of fishing to Bahamians on the micro level (as part of their regular diet) and on the macro level (as almost 3% of the national GDP, approximately $75 million annually, providing full-time employment to almost 7% of the workforce); I have been extremely concerned about the state of the Bahamian fish, conch and lobster stocks.
Having just watched on PBS this week a documentary about the rapid decline of fish stocks around the world, I was wondering what is the current state of the Bahamas' fisheries? Does it seem to anyone that there are fewer fish, conch and lobsters than in the past? What steps has the Bahamian government taken to ensure the long term sustainability of these resources? Is there any group or individual on Harbour Island (or Eleuthera) actively involved in the monitoring of the fisheries?
I only bring this up because the subject completely fascinates me. I do not claim any moral superiority since in my 30 years of visiting the island I have caught and eaten plenty of fish myself. Worse, I have always been fascinated by the sea life of the Bahamas and have quite a few "souvenirs" which any conservationist would find completely inappropriate. What concerns me is a day when I visit Briland and am unable to have a sweet piece of grouper, a delicious conch fritter or a fresh lobster tail. But more importantly, how will decreasing fisheries effect the local economy and culture?