Helping the Fishing Community of Robinson Crusoe Island
Recover from the 2010 Tsunami

The Juan Fernández Archipelago, Chile has a tightly structured artisanal fishing community. Based on Robinson Crusoe Island, this small-scale rock lobster fishery has operated for over 100 years.

The recent tsunami that followed the strong Chilean earthquake on February 27th 2010 has had a profound impact on the fishing community. The massive waves destroyed boats, fishing gear, several facilities for the local fishermen's syndicate and, worst of all, took human lives. In addition to these devastating losses, most fishermen have lost the last two months of the current season, depriving them of up to a third of their annual fishing income.

Local traditions and a singular sea tenure fisheries management system make it a unique place in Chile and, probably, worldwide. Lobster fishing is the main economic driver in the archipelago, with hundreds of people relying on the revenue of each season's catch.

In a joint effort, the fishermen and fishing industry of the North Pacific have partnered with Oikonos to assist the fishing community on Robinson Crusoe Island. The U.S. North Pacific fishing industry, based in Alaska, Washington & Oregon, has a strong commitment to outreach to other fishing communities. They are donating considerable time, expertise and effort to helping raise funds and acquire equipment donations to contribute to the rebuilding of the Juan Fernandez fishing community.

 

Before and After Photos Top: Boat-building shop Upper middle: Seafood exhibition building Lower middle: Fishermen's syndicate offices Bottom: Fishermen's bodegas (equipment sheds)

Link to more Videos and Photos of the unique archipelago and the tsunami damage

Back to Main Donation Page for Juan Fernández Islands Recovery Fund