Fishermen
Fishermen have an intimate relationship with our marine ecosystems working hard everyday to catch the local seafood that ends up in our markets, on our menus, and eventually in our stomachs. Fishermen are often first to notice changes in our ecosystems and have a vested interest in conserving our ocean resources. We partner with fishermen to share their first-hand knowledge and experience.
If you are a fisherman interested in collaborating with Eating with the Ecosystem, here are a few ways you can get involved:
Speak at one of our events: Fishermen have a unique perspective on our marine ecosystems, fisheries, and seafood that the public seldom has the opportunity to hear. Help us educate seafood lovers about what you see and what they can do to help support local fisheries.
Share your story with us: Notice a change in the ecosystem? Catch something really cool? See a need to raise public interest in a particular species? We can help you share your message to seafood lovers around New England.
Suggest a research or project idea. Keep us informed by letting us know what is happening and what’s important to you. Your insight may spark a project idea!
Join our Advisory NETwork. Join our inside circle of mentors by signing up for an ongoing advising role.
If you are interested in getting involved in any of these ways, contact kate@eatingwiththeecosystem.org
Examples of our work
Rhode island Fishing Heritage Signage Trail
This project was a fishermen driven collaboration! In May 2017, Eating with the Ecosystem partnered with the fishing community of Galilee, the Department of Environmental Management, and the Town of Narragansett to design and install 10 interpretive signage panels around the port. Signs included “What’s That Boat?” and “Landed in Galilee”, showcasing the variety of boats, fishing gear types, and seafood species that are tied to this thriving working waterfront. It was made possible by a RI Centennial Grant from the Rhode Island Foundation. In 2018 and 2019, we will work with 8 other fishing communities to install additional signage and showcase the full diversity of Rhode Island’s fishing heritage. The expansion is made possible by the Rhode Island Foundation and the Town of Narragansett.
Scales & Tales Food Boat Events
Through the Scales & Tales Food Boat program, Eating with the Ecosystem offers free, fun, educational events to teach consumers about our local seafood, fisheries, and ecosystems. These events raise awareness for and promote local lesser known seafood species and include seafood cooking demonstrations, free samples of local seafood, and storytelling by fishermen and scientists. We are always looking for local fishermen to participate in these events.
Eating with the Ecosystem Restaurant Dinners
Eating with the Ecosystem hosts a series of seasonal fundraiser dinners at local restaurants to promote our mission of creating a place-based approach to sustaining New England’s wild seafood. We work with some of the region's most talented chefs to curate diverse and delicious multi-course seafood menus designed to tell the story of our local ecosystems. Each course features a different local fish and is often paired with wine or artisanal cocktails. While guests sit back and enjoy their meal, Eating with the Ecosystem's staff will teaches about the species being enjoyed and local fishermen share their stories of the day to day realities of living and working in our cherished marine ecosystems. We are always looking for local fishermen to participate in these events.