Page 272 - Manual for Activities directed at the Underwater Cultural Heritage

Situations negatively impacting archaeological si- tes can be avoided through mutual dialogue and information. It is vital to consider fishermen as natural allies in heritage protection. Fishermen’s interests are not – in principle – at odds with heritage protection. With their local knowledge they can be important informers on changing marine conditions and on discoveries of heritage. If sites are subject to a management plan, one should consider what fishing techniques, if any, one would want to allow on-site. Many techniques, however, are more harmful in combination with other uses, such as recreational diving, or functioning as a breeding ground for specific species, than they are for the physical properties of a site as such.
In many countries, fishermen are already important allies in the management of underwater cultural heritage. They are invited to share their information with the competent national authorities and thus contribute to the establishment of inventories. Archaeologists benefit from consulting them as much as possible, both on the general conditions of the marine environment and on the whereabouts of irregular features at the bottom surface. Conversely, they should inform them about areas that should be avoided, in order to prevent endangering submerged archaeological sites. If fishermen act as bad partners in heritage management, this is often due to negligence in communication with them. It is the responsibility of those who care for heritage to make sure that fishermen are well-informed and conscious of the importance of heritage protection. It is vital for all stakeholders to establish a mutual understanding between heritage managers and the fishing industry.
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Environment