Training of fish wardens
TEN villagers in Galoa Village, Serua completed a two-day fish warden training program recently, equipping them with skills and knowledge necessary to effectively manage and safeguard their fishing grounds.
This includes the renowned Shark Reef Marine Reserve (SRMR) – one of Fiji’s four gazetted marine protected areas.
The training was made possible through a collaborative effort by Beqa Adventure Divers (BAD), the new Fiji Shark Lab, Ministry of Fisheries, Galoa Village and UNDP.
“Our partnership and the training of fish wardens is crucial to the protection of the Galoa village fishing grounds and the Shark Reef Marine Reserve,” Natasha D. Marosi, director of conservation for BAD and founder of the Fiji Shark Lab said.
“Eight unique species of sharks utilise the reserve, some call it home and others pass through for hunting, resting, mating and socialization.”
The trainees also included staff from Beqa Adventure who routinely encounter poachers on the SRMR during commercial and coral and shark dive trips.
Galoa Village headman Adre Tabuivalu said the initiative underscored the importance of combating common issues like illegal fishing and diving, thereby safeguarding both the village’s livelihood and marine resources.
Conducted by the Ministry of Fisheries, the training covered a range of topics, including awareness of the Fisheries Management Act, emphasising the pivotal role fish wardens play in enforcing regulations and combating illegal fishing activities within their designated areas.