Maps and traps: A geographer's perspective on fishing and marine protected areas in Bonavista Bay, Newfoundland

Since 1992 when the cod stocks were closed on Canada's east coast, the fishing communities of Bonavista Bay in northeast Newfoundland have been forced to consider precautionary approaches to the management of living marine resources. Amongst the range of conservation measures currently under discussion, marine protected areas have attracted considerable attention both from harvesters and scientists, particularly for the preservation of sedentary species and supporting habitats. There is growing evidence that areas closed to fishing might boost local egg production thereby enhancing the surrounding fisheries. Reacting to harvester demands that conservation agencies acknowledge and incorporate local patterns of sea use, this thesis initiates a collaborative effort to document inshore fishing grounds in the waters adjacent to Terra Nova National Park. The research comprises two principal components: (i) the derivation of a large scale coastal basemap from topographic sources and digital hydrographic data, and (ii) participatory mapping sessions conducted with members of the Eastport Fishermen's Committee to chart harvest areas, local toponyms and community-based management measures.; Individual and small-group mapping sessions reveal an extensive cognitive store of local knowledge including precise locational information and customary rules that continue to govern spatial access to fisheries resources in coastal Newfoundland. By drawing their own maps, harvesters are able to demonstrate effectively these informal management measures and local conservation priorities to neighbouring communities, scientists and government partners. Comments are also offered on the customization of coastal basemaps and other cartographic products to meet fisher specifications.; In concluding, the research suggests that candidate marine protected areas will emerge through relaxed rapport accompanied by graphic portrayals of the areas and activities familiar to inshore harvesters. Based on the conclusions, the thesis makes recommendations for future mapping of fishing grounds in Bonavista Bay and highlights research opportunities such as computer assisted visualization in the participatory stages of marine conservation planning.