Grant Period: 2 years

Project DigiFish is revolutionising the fishing industry in Barbados by promoting the use of digital technologies and innovative data analytical methods to support the application of the Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries (EAF) in Barbados. The project has installed vessel tracking systems on over 30 vessels which collect data on fishing efforts including distance, location, duration, fishing methods, and more. This data is critical to equip relevant stakeholders with the evidence to make informed policy decisions, address overfishing, facilitate effective enforcement, and safeguard the livelihoods of the fisherfolk, towards the goal of attaining sustainable fisheries management in Barbados.

Project Goals:

• To demonstrate how vessel tracking systems can be used to make informed decisions that support traceability, sustainable fisheries management and marine spatial planning
• To use data classification algorithms to illustrate how fishing effort changes through space and time via the generation of catch per unit effort (CPUE) maps
• To foster productive partnerships between coastal and marine stakeholders in applying integrated data solutions to support Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) and fisheries management

Update: Year II January 2023

In Year 2, a total of eight tracking devices have been installed on vessels, collectively recording 5,447 trips from January 2022 to August 2023. The data collected from these devices, supplemented by fisher reports, reveal that participating fishers are adhering to sustainable practices, using responsible fishing methods that protect marine ecosystems. By facilitating real-time tracking and data analysis, DigiFish promotes sustainability and resource stewardship, helping fishers navigate and operate more effectively.

Special thanks to donor, Edmiston, for their generous support for this initiative!