Restoring coastal fisheries and communities

A decade ago, the West Coast's largest fishery collapsed and was declared a federal disaster.

Old-style management had failed to end overfishing.

EDF suggested a different approach. Today, catch shares are giving hope to fishermen.

• Struggling Pacific fishing communities find hope

  The sardine canneries in Monterey, CA, have been replaced by art galleries and T-shirt shops. All along the West Coast, the once thiving fishing industry has been facing hard times. But change is coming.

• EDF helps revitalize California's fishing communities

  Fishing has returned to Morro Bay, thanks to a boost from loans provided by the California Fisheries Fund, a program EDF launched to support sustainable fishing.

• We use cutting-edge science to devise solutions

  At the hub of EDF’s ocean research is Ocean Innovations, a San Francisco-based think tank. Here, students and scientists define critical conservation challenges and devise breakthrough solutions.