Mary Ellen Brown
Sector Management in New England
This project documents fishery management related changes in individuals, households, and communities in New England.
Angela Wilson
Mary Brown, 52, is married to commercial fisherman Chris Brown who fishes out of Point Judith, Rhode Island. Mr. Brown has been involved in fisheries since he was a little boy and currently fishes inshore, predominantly for groundfish. Mrs. Brown?s husband is a member of sector 5. She believes that sector management allows him to catch fish more economically and predictably. Sector management has improved quality of life and financial stability for the Brown family, while active membership and appreciation for sectors has had a negative impact on some relationships outside of the immediate family. In this regard, Mrs. Brown mentions that some fishing friendships have suffered due to perceptions that her families heavy involvement in the industry is somehow privileged and receives more attention than others. Independent of sectors, Mr. Brown also began a business (Wild Rhody) for delivering fresh, whole and traceable fish to various supermarkets and restaurants around Rhode Island and Massachusetts, in which his sons also participate.
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