Pêches des bélugas, des anguilles et des esturgeons noirs de l’estuaire du St-Laurent

Abstract

This paper presents an ethnographic examination of beluga whale, eel and black sturgeon fisheries, focusing more particularly on their exploitation, commodification and conservation. A political ecology approach first allows for an historical account of the beluga whale fishery, revealing how it contributed to developing the eel and black sturgeon fisheries. Second, the paper examines the environmental degradation process that led to management policies, which are in turn marginalizing the fishermen. Third, it explores how eel and sturgeon fisheries are now tied both to a natural heritagization process and new mechanisms of commodification. This analysis questions the environmental consequences of capitalist development and natural resource management policies for the fishermen and their environment, shedding light on the pressurization process these fisheries are facing.

Keywords

• fishery
• eel
• black sturgeon
• beluga whale
• political ecology
• Quebec