The Compensation Measures of Fisheries in Green Island Setting up National Park

Project Duration	2006-12-31 ~ 2008-09-29
Research Title	The Compensation Measures of Fisheries in Green Island Setting up National Park
Contracted Organization	National Taiwan Ocean University
Principal Investigator	Ou Ching-Hsien
Project Personnel	Hsieh Yu-Sheng, Ting Kuo-Huan, Hung Cheng-Chun, Lin Shu-Chen
Keywords	Green Island, National Park, exclusive fishing rights, fisheries compensation, marine protected area
Abstract	Given that Green Island possesses one of Taiwan’s richest and best-preserved coral reef ecosystems, the government proposed designating it as a national park and developing it into an international marine ecotourism destination. Establishing marine protected areas (MPAs) is expected to promote ecological tourism while ensuring the sustainable development of traditional fisheries. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the potential impacts of different national park boundary scenarios on local fisheries and to formulate appropriate fisheries compensation measures. The study compiled and analyzed literature on the current status of fisheries and ecological resources in waters surrounding Green Island. Questionnaires and field interviews were conducted to assess potential impacts on local fishermen and fishing operations, and to develop responsive strategies. The key findings are summarized as follows: 1. The government plans to designate marine areas around Green Island as coral reef–focused marine protected areas. Initial partial restrictions within core zones may cause minor inconvenience, but ecological mechanisms are expected to enhance long-term fisheries sustainability. 2. The exclusive fishing rights of the Green Island Fishermen’s Association expired in 2005 and are currently under renewal. Although rights are expected to be reissued in accordance with the law, their scope may be reduced with stricter management requirements. 3. Fisheries in Green Island are primarily coastal and offshore operations, mainly longline fisheries targeting migratory and coral reef fishes. Over the past three years, the average annual production was approximately 508,058 kg, with an average annual production value of NT$38,781,242. 4. Among 18 surveyed fishing vessels, the average annual operating cost in 2007 was NT$313,977, with fuel accounting for approximately 40% of total costs. The average annual profit per vessel was NT$303,376. 5. All 22 interviewed captains opposed the establishment of a national park, primarily due to concerns over restrictions on traditional fishing activities. They considered compensation or assistance in transitioning to tourism-related industries as viable alternatives. Many suggested maintaining or horizontally expanding the existing conservation zones at Chaikou and Shilang instead. 6. It is recommended that marine protected areas initially cover waters within 200 meters depth. Public participation of local residents and fishermen before, during, and after designation is essential. Decisions should be supported by sufficient scientific evidence, with clear communication of advantages and disadvantages to facilitate public understanding and acceptance.