Adaptive learning: a new approach to natural resources management

The management of fisheries resources in many developing countries is difficult because the resource systems are both complex and dynamic in their biophysical and human aspects. For this reason, it is not always possible to understand with certainty how a system works, or to accurately predict the outcomes of management actions.

This uncertainty leads to situations where complete control over a resource system is not possible, but where management decisions still need to be made. Collaborative research into the management of inland fisheries in south and southeast Asia suggests there has often been a lack of guidance for people involved in fisheries management who are faced with these complex systems. This was funded through the UK Department for International Development’s Fisheries Management Science Programme (FMSP).

Existing management guidelines, typically supplied through government agencies, often suggest some form of ‘best practice’ in management. However, these guidelines are often based on assumptions about the objectives of those dependent on fisheries and assume that the resources needed to implement suggested management actions already exist. This is different from the systems that are typically encountered, which are characterised by low technology, low skills and a lack of finances. In such cases, not only is best practice uncertain or unknown but the resources to implement it are often lacking.

The research has developed and tested a new ‘adaptive learning’ approach to resource management. This approach places learning (i.e. the generation, sharing and use of knowledge) at the centre of the management process. As a starting point, it acknowledges that uncertainties exist and we do not have all the answers to resource management. Instead of ignoring these uncertainties, however, this approach builds on the existing knowledge of fishers, extension agencies and researchers and reduces these uncertainties at the same time as managing the resource. This is achieved through planned management experiments and the development of knowledge sharing networks to meet the many learning objectives of all groups.

The research summarises results from two projects. The first project developed and tested the new approach in small water bodies. The second project, designed to promote and apply the methodology, tested the approach in rice-fish systems of West Bengal, India, and in fisheries, including reservoirs, in the countries of the Mekong Basin (Lao PDR, Cambodia, Viet Nam and Thailand).

This research suggests that the adaptive learning approach can be effective in the development and management of fisheries:

• The process generates important new knowledge amongst fisheries managers about resource systems and their dynamics.
• The development of effective information sharing mechanisms increased both knowledge (e.g. about fish stocking and the costs and benefits of different management arrangements) and skills for a range of stakeholders, including local researchers, extension workers and resource users.
• When implemented, the new knowledge generated increased benefits, including incomes, to people dependent on fisheries.

The second project refined the adaptive learning guidelines and produced booklets in English and a number of local Asian languages. The guidelines are a non-technical product aimed at development practitioners that provide an opportunity to share the experiences with a wider audience, including people managing other natural resources. These guidelines:

• explain the principles of adaptive learning and illustrate how the approach can be implemented in different resource management situations
• discuss the situations in which adaptive learning is appropriate and effective
• identify potential problems, and what skills and resources are required
• outline how enhancing communication and increasing the learning of people involved encourages the full participation of all stakeholders.

Source(s):
Research conducted by MRAG Ltd, RDC, WorldFish Center, Mekong River Commission, Indian Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute and the State Government of West Bengal

Funded by: UK Department for international Development (DFID) Fisheries Management Science Programme (FMSP)

id21 Research Highlight: 28 November 2005

Further Information:
Robert Arthur
MRAG Ltd
18 Queen Street
London
W1J 5PN
UK

Tel: +44 (0) 20 7255 7786
Fax: +44 (0) 20 7499 5388
Contact the contributor: r.arthur@mrag.co.uk

Marine Resources Assessment Group, UK

Other related links:
Fisheries Management Science Programme

Adaptive Learning Web Site

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