Small Fishing Ports in Southern New England, Report to the National Science Foundation, Volume Ib

Social and cultural aspects of fisheries management were examined to establish basic data on the fishing communities and fisheries of southern New England. Five small ports were selected for study--Newport, Chatham, and Westport, Massachusetts; Newport, Rhode Island; and Stonington, Connecticut. These ports differ in terms of local, social, and geographical conditions, fishing styles, and emphases. Results of the study show that these ports act as a backup for the industry as a whole by (1) providing sources of fish for local markets; (2) using low energy models which reduce energy costs; (3) allowing individual fishermen a greater opportunity to find 0 port to suit their life-style; and (4) complementing tourist activities by supplying fresh seafood products. However, a conflict was found to exist between the commercial fisheries and businesses operating largely on the summer tourist trade. More money has been added to the local economy from the latter, resulting in restricted development of commercial fishing.