A Decision Support Model for Fisheries Management in Hawaii: A Multilevel and Multiobjective Programming Approach

Abstract

Management of Hawaii's fisheries faces great challenges due to rapid growth that has intensified competition among fisheries and users with different interests. This study develops and applies a multilevel and multiobjective programming model to assist decision making in Hawaii's fisheries. The multilevel aspect of the model incorporates objectives of both policy makers and fishermen. The use of a multiobjective model is essential in fisheries management because the typical fishery policy problem is characterized by more than one objective or goal that decision makers want to optimize. The model covers 9 fleet categories, 5 fishing areas, 4 seasons, and 14 species, of which 10 are targeted species. Catch per unit of effort (CPUE) includes targeted and incidental catch species. A nonlinear relationship between CPUE and effort is incorporated into the model. By use of the various objectives or policy options of fisheries management, the current model provides optimum solutions in fishing effort and its spatial and temporal distribution, as well as the optimal harvest level. The current model has been applied to evaluate several management issues facing Hawaii's fisheries. Application of the model indicates that the trade-offs between recreational and commercial fishing vary by effort level. At the current fishing effort level, an increase of one recreational trip reduces commercial profit by US$12.14. Moreover, the study concludes that the area closure regime designed to reduce conflict between commercial and recreational fishing can cause profit loss to the commercial fisheries in the range of.44 million to.70 million.