chedabucto bay trap-caught shrimp
DESCRIPTION
In 2012, distinguishing this fishery from trawlers generated $675,000 in increased revenues; local marketing efforts in 2013 showed that it is possible to increase revenues by over $1 million. Properly valuing this fishery will increase GDP by $840,000, increase local income by $575,000 and will create 12 new jobs in the fishery and other sectors.TRANSCRIPT
The Chedabucto Bay Trap Caught Shrimp fishery was started in the early 1990s by Mike Newell, an innovative lobster fisherman from Canso, Nova Scotia who
saw a future in shrimp. This owner-operated, community based fishery brings a larger, fresher shrimp to the wharf than the trawler fleet. However, low
volumes mean that trap fishermen need a higher price for their catch to make it worthwhile.
Trap-caught shrimp are an environmental “best choice” because of the low impact to the marine ecosystem. Most wild shrimp are caught with trawl gear that damages the ocean floor and results in wasteful bycatch and farmed shrimp are associated with human rights violations and destruction of tropical mangrove ecosystems.
The Ecology Action Centre started working with the trappers in 2007 to help them differentiate their catch from shrimp caught by trawlers. By working together on quality control, distribution, and market development, the partnership has been able to more than double the price that fishermen get at the wharf.
More and more trap-caught shrimp are being sold as regional markets recognize the premium quality shrimp and choose to support
the fishery. As demand for sustainable seafood grows, so do valuable opportunities for Nova Scotia’s small-scale fisheries. Chedabucto Bay
fishermen are building new markets and shaping a new way of doing business in the Canso area – where a sustainable, high quality product is
rewarded with a fair price at the dock.
“If you’re protecting the species and the environmentthey live in, then you’re protecting your income”
Alen Newell (shrimp trapper)On his father Mike’s motivation for creating
a shrimp trap fishery in Chedabucto Bay
“Chedabucto Bay Trap caught shrimp is arguablythe sweetest shrimp I have ever been fortunate enough to eat and to cook with. Whether servedraw or lightly steamed and served with a glass ofNova Scotia Tidal Bay wine, this iconic Nova Scotia
product is one of our newest and most desirable seafoods.” Tempestuous Culinary Chef Michael Howell
“The number one priority for me, and I think with every chef, is the best, best quality local product you can have, as
fresh as humanly possible… When they arrive in my kitchen they’re still moving. I’ve never seen that in my life.
Chef Dennis Johnston
“Don’t think I’ve ever tasted shrimp so fresh & sweet”Nadine Fownes, Chronicle Herald
“Sustainable Chedabucto Bay Trap caught shrimp is the sweetest shrimp I have ever been fortunate enough to eat, love it !”
Lil MacPherson, Wooden Monkey
CHEDABUCTO BAY TRAP-CAUGHT SHRIMP
The Bottom LineIn 2012, distinguishing this fishery from trawlers generated $675,000 in increased revenues; local marketing efforts in 2013 showed that it is possible to increase revenues by over $1 million. Properly valuing this fishery will increase GDP by $840,000, increase local income by $575,000 and will create 12 new jobs in the fishery and other sectors.
Although 92% of the northern shrimp quota is allocated to the trawl fleet and only 8% is caught by trap, the trap
fishery can generate more revenue per unit product, leading to more income, more jobs and supporting a more
sustainable use of fishery resources over time.
2012 (actual) Future potential
Provincial GDP Growth $ 544,320 $ 843,696
Income Generated $ 369,600 $ 572,880
New Jobs 7.75 12Based on Statistics Canada Input / Output Models. Contact [email protected] for details. The trap fleet has less quota but much higher unit value than the trawl fleet.
www.ecologyaction.ca
Potential Revenue Assigned Quota
Trapped
Trawler Caught
28%
72%
8%
92%