The Strategic Importance of Fisheries Science

In fisheries management, science is power. Every year, scientific assessments determine how many fish may be harvested, how much fishing effort may be allowed, and ultimately who benefits from South Africa’s marine resources. Total Allowable Catch (TAC) and Total Allowable Effort (TAE) are not political numbers – they are founded on stock assessments, ecosystem monitoring, mathematical modelling and risk analysis. Once scientific recommendations are accepted, they become the foundation upon which regulatory, economic and social decisions are made. This reality gives rise to a simple but profound observation: Who controls the science effectively controls the TAC and TAE.