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Activity Two – Wolffish
Finding ways to Work together
Background:
All three species of wolffish in the Newfoundland and Labrador region are considered at risk. Wolffish play an important role in the ecosystem of the ocean.
While spotted wolffish are not targeted as a commercial species, they are often caught accidentally along with other fish. As well, bottom trawls, longlines, gillnets and sometimes traps can injure spotted wolffish and damage spawning habitat by disturbing rocks and boulders used for shelter and construction of nests.
Fishermen make a living by fishing.
Version 1 - Let's get started!
In this activity you will need to figure out ways to ensure that fishermen can make a living and wolffish continue to survive.
Use the materials provided, the Internet and other resources to investigate wolffish, their habitat, and fishing practices that impact wolffish. Find out what fisheries are involved and how important they are to the Newfoundland and Labrador economy.
Compile a report that explains the situation from both the fishermen's point of view and the wolffish point of view.
Suggest solutions and compromises that will protect the wolffish and still allow fishermen to make a living.
Talk about it!
- How can you explain your ideas to fishermen?
- Do you think your plan could really work?
- What is already being done to help wolffish and let fishermen fish?
Version 2 - Let's get started!
In this activity your class will separate into two or more groups.
One group will be scientists and one group will be Fishermen. The scientists want to help protect Wolffish. Fishermen want to be able to fish.
Use the materials provided, the Internet, and other resources to investigate the two sides of this issue. Each team will develop a report to explain their side of the issue.
After you complete your research and report stage a 'Town Meeting' to discuss the issue. One person from each team must present the report to the entire class. The teacher will act as moderator.
After the presentations hold a discussion to come up with solutions that can work for everyone. If everyone can't agree on a plan, hold a vote to decide.
Talk about it!
Discuss how issues like this affect people and animals. Look at some of the things that are already being done in communities to protect species at risk.
Here are some other questions to help prompt discussion.
- Do you think your plan could really work?
- Were both groups satisfied with the outcome of the meeting and the new plan?
- Is it always possible to come up with a solution that is acceptable to everyone?
- Is it beneficial to compromise your point of view? If so, when and why? If not, why not?
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