The Newfoundland and Labrador sea urchin fishery: popular knowledge, identity and occupational attitudes within the new fishery

• Main Author: Walsh, Kieran
• Format: Thesis
• Language: English
• Published: Memorial University of Newfoundland 2004
• Subjects: Newfoundland; Labrador Sea
• Online Access: https://research.library.mun.ca/12310/; https://research.library.mun.ca/12310/1/Walsh_Kieran.pdf

It is the purpose of this study to analyze the unique nature of the sea urchin fishery in Newfoundland and Labrador. Through the theoretical lens of vernacular knowledge, the sea urchin fishery will be explored within the context of the province's larger fishing industry, following the collapse of ground fisheries of the early 1990s. The occupational folklife of a group of sea urchin fishers is explored, specifically the role their vernacular knowledge plays in their industry. Within the realm of this knowledge come the harvesters' work techniques, narratives and attitudes. This knowledge makes for an occupational folk group with a distinct sense of identity, autonomy and empowerment. The individuals highlighted in the case study here are shown as having tremendous potential for a co-management function within this fledgling fishery in Newfoundland and Labrador.