Seth Rolbein Speaks to OCT on Local Fisheries

On a rainy Tuesday evening in front of a cozy fireplace at the Orleans Yacht Club, Seth Rolbein spoke to a roomful of Orleans Conservation Trust members about the Cape Cod Fisheries Trust . The Fisheries Trust, under the Cape Cod Commercial Fisherman’s Alliance, was founded to ensure the economic sustainability of smaller-scale fishing businesses that are locally-based. The Fishermen’s Alliance’s motto, “Small Boats. Big Ideas.” concisely describes what the organization stands for, and alludes to the complexities that come with this line of work. Seth spoke about “connecting the dots,” bringing the waterfront and community together, and finding solutions that appeal to fishermen and conservation-minded individuals alike. Seth was quick to point out that these are not two distinct groups; our local fishermen are very much invested in the conservation of the marine resources on which their livelihoods depend. As he says, the Trust is working to find not common ground, but “common waves.” Providing examples of past campaigns, Seth showed how even though the Trust is focused on the Cape, their organization’s model has spread to fishing communities in Alaska, the Gulf of Mexico and elsewhere. Concluding his discussion-style presentation, Seth provided answers to the engaged audience’s questions, and mentioned projects and concerns that the Trust may focus on in the future. Thank you to all of those who attended, and to Seth for an entertaining and informative night!