Federated States of Micronesia International Waters Project : Communication strategy

Abstract

The objective of the FSM International Waters Project is to promote sustainable coastal fisheries via a system of marine protected areas established and maintained through a collaboration of traditional resources owners, government and non-government organizations, and other stakeholders in one management framework with the goals to: 1. Work with communities to define and clarify root problems relating to fisheries resources and develop their capacity to address problems with assistance from relevant agencies: 2. Survey and demarcate MPA sites and surrounding areas and develop a context for their management; 3. Conduct surveys to gather data needed to enhance the design and function of the MPA: 4. Increase fisheries resources through locally managed MPA: 5. Gather data needed to manage external pressures on coastal fisheries exploitation: 6. Develop a co-management system that will integrate community desires and efforts with relevant government and nongovernment services and resources: and 7. Share information and experience from the project with others on Yap and elsewhere to enhance awareness and replication of the project within and beyond Yap State. The theme of the project concept. “ CHOTHOWLIY EA DAY” which means "take care of the marine environment" was advanced as a follow up to the Yap Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan which was being undertaken at that time.