Ecosystem-based Fisheries Management Stakeholder Attitudes Survey 2006

The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) conducted a survey of fisheries stakeholders on the Gulf and East Coasts of the United States seeking their views on ecosystem-based fisheries management (EBFM) of fisheries resources. The survey asked a series of attitude and opinion questions along with general environmental literacy and demographic questions to a sample of 7,850 fisheries stakeholders, stratified by region. Results indicate that respondents’ knowledge of the status of fisheries resources is qualitatively similar to NMFS ratings, though generally respondents were less than satisfied with current fisheries management. Results also suggest that, despite concerns over several specific measures, respondents generally see potential in an EBFM approach to management.