To make fair and informed decisions about managing introduced species in postcolonial areas like Aotearoa (New Zealand), we need to understand the different ways humans relate to these species. Inspired by ideas of relational values, we interviewed 13 people with knowledge about trout and their management.
Trout have affected ecosystems and communities in various ways, from enhancing ecosystems and empowering certain cultural groups to causing harm and loss for others. Some people believe trout can fit into a healthy ecosystem, while others disagree. Although there are valid reasons for these differing views, we found that most interviewees agreed on three key principles for managing trout in the future: shared decision-making based on the Treaty, addressing the negative impacts of trout, and better coordination between government agencies to create and achieve comprehensive fish management goals.
We delve deep into the place of introduced trout in Aotearoa by exploring the benefits and problems trout create from historical, social, cultural, and ecological perspectives.