Conclusion: Surveying the Wake

Abstract

This chapter summarizes the findings of our studies of bio-economic rationalizations that have occurred in the wake of the individual transferable quota (ITQ) regimes. It argues that despite the different approaches and perspectives used to understand regimes based on fish stock assessments and catch share arrangements, and despite the diverse contexts for such regimes, some general findings are possible. These are discussed in terms of key issues in assessments of ITQ regimes, namely the prevention of overfishing, the fair allocation of fishing rights, making fishers into responsible, self-managing actors, the creation of well-functioning markets, and whether the ITQ regimes were social or environmental projects. It concludes with comments about future directions for research.