The Government of Bermuda, in partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has developed a Marine Resources Enforcement Strategy to strengthen ocean protection and prosperity. 

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Bermuda’s ocean is fundamental to Bermudian livelihoods and identity, yet it faces growing pressures from illegal and unregulated fishing to habitat degradation and the effects of climate change. Stakeholders across Bermuda have consistently highlighted the need to strengthen marine enforcement to make marine protections effective. 

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 The Strategy sets out a coordinated plan to:

• Strengthen protection of Bermuda’s marine resources through effective laws and enforcement;

• Build a skilled, well-equipped, and collaborative enforcement workforce;

• Improve use of modern tools and technologies for monitoring and surveillance;

• Deepen partnerships with local, regional, and international agencies; and

• Promote public awareness and voluntary compliance across the community.

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“Enforcement is essential for ocean health and the introduction of Marine Protected Areas as set out in Bermuda’s Blue Prosperity Plan,” said Fae Sapsford, Communications Manager at the Bermuda Ocean Prosperity Programme (BOPP).

 

The strategy provides a modern, adaptive framework to strengthen enforcement, improve compliance, and ensure Bermuda’s marine resources are managed responsibly for future generations. It is a key step in delivering on the goals set out in Bermuda’s Blue Prosperity Plan, ensuring that sustainable ocean management supports both economic growth and ocean health.

 

“Illegal and unregulated fishing not only threatens the livelihoods of fishermen but also undermines the hard work of those who follow the rules and fish responsibly. We need a clear and consistent enforcement strategy that protects our fish stocks, supports fair access, and ensures that everyone, including both commercial and recreational fishermen alike, plays by the rules. Effective enforcement would help us keep our industry strong, our waters healthy, and our future secure,” stated the Commercial Fisheries Council appearing in the opening pages of the strategy.

Stakeholders are invited to review the Strategy and share feedback through the public consultation survey through November 6 at forum.gov.bm.