Factors Forming the Rules for Coastal Use by Various Stakeholders and Their Causal Relationships - A Case of Octopus Fishing in Akashi City

Abstract

ABSTRACT: This paper clarifies the factors involved in developing rules for coastal area use with the participation of various stakeholders and the causal relationships between them. Efforts undertaken to formulate rules for octopus fishing along the coast of Akashi City, Hyogo Prefecture, were used as a case study. Creating rules for environmental conservation and resource management is important for creating “Satoumi”: a concept in coastal area management. On the coast of Akashi City, rules governing the use of fishing grounds and resources by fishermen and recreational fisherfolk have been formed specifically for the octopus, which is the target species of common fishing rights. Following the extraction of factors involved in octopus-fishing rules and the creation of a causal loop diagram between the factors, three feedback loop groups were detected: the management of octopus resources, social interest in octopus’ resources, and reduction of maritime collision accidents. Furthermore, not only were the main factors forming the loop important but also the cooperation of the Japan Coast Guard and interest of the public functioned as bridges in the loop. Moreover, although the direct and indirect parties involved formed the octopus-fishing rules, the cooperation of the third and fourth parties was required to make the rules effective.