Integrating information from semi-structured interviews into management strategy evaluation: A case study for Southeast United States marine fisheries

Management strategy evaluation (MSE) has become a more common tool for engaging stakeholders in fisheries management, and stakeholder participation MSE is increasingly recognized as vital component of the process. The stakeholders, specifically fishers, particular importance because they often possess intimate knowledge socio-ecological management system that seeks to model. When resources conduct “full” with direct fisher involvement are unavailable, MSEs sometimes conducted by desk-based analysts no engagement. We propose an intermediate framework which information collected from semi-structured interviews used inform “desk-based” MSE. demonstrate commercial recreational fishers can elicit some same kinds provide during 30 Southeast United States participating either Atlantic cobia ( Rachycentron canadum ) or black sea bass Centropristis striata fisheries. primarily qualitative quantitative about preferred conceptual objectives measures, how their fishing behavior changed response past action. Commercial generally measures align traditional MSY-based while fishers’ responses were substantially heterogeneous, indicating diverse range desired measures. synthesized this develop suite procedures employ mortality-based constant-catch harvest control rules size-based simulation testing against sector. integrating way offers cost-effective alternative approach when not possible.