2015-11-10 - P&O Agenda - Item 7, Attach 1 - Historical Ecology of the Noosa Estuary Fisheries

Key Lessons

This section provides key lessens relevant for considering similar analyses of
historical fisheries productivity for other estuaries in Australia.


Coastal populations of fish and shellfish have been exploited for centuries. In
order to provide a more complete view of changes to these ecosystems,
interdisciplinary research spanning the archaeological, anthropological, social,
historical and ecological disciplines is necessary. Without such interdisciplinary
efforts we risk missing vital data sources, or misinterpreting the historical
record.


A large amount of information exists within local and state archives and with
resident experts. Archival data should be explored using multiple channels,
including popular media, government records, universities, local libraries and
local historical societies. Local and traditional ecological knowledge are
important sources of data that should not be discounted, as they provide
information on historical observations of species or periods of time that may not
be well described within the archival literature, in addition to placing acquired
data into context (e.g., any legislative, environmental or societal changes).


Researchers should approach knowledge holders at an early stage of the study,
preferably during the planning stage, and ensure that they undertake their
research with cultural sensitivity and using the appropriate channels (e.g.,
approaching Traditional Owners of the region for an understanding of
indigenous history and resource use).


The amount of time required to fully explore the various different data sources
should not be underestimated. Expect to have to reject large quantities of
historical material for every piece of data found.


Both qualitative and quantitative data are equally important for understanding
and communicating historical change, and both should be prioritised.


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