Agrofest 2025 was certainly one for the books as the Barbados Fisheries Division came out in full force to showcase “Fishing into the Future”.
Visitors were treated to the sight of our star vessel, Harbouring Hope, which was outfitted with three pieces of technology that are being implemented in the fishing industry to propel it into the next Age. These being:
1. Starlink
More vessels are being outfitted with Starlink, a satellite internet system that provides high-speed internet in remote areas – such as at sea. This piece of equipment keeps fisherfolk connected as they go out to harvest. It is particularly key with the effects of climate change, which leads to quickly changing weather patterns. As the hurricane seasons continue to produce more intense weather events at a higher frequency, this is a key piece of technology to keep fisherfolk in the know as they fish.
2. Vessel Monitoring System (VMS)
These are vessel-tracking devices which provide a representation of the movement of Barbados’ fishing fleet within its waters. Ultimately, this data contributes to sustainable management decisions and can help fisherfolk improve their catch efficiency.
Find out more here: https://www.fisheries.gov.bb/digifish/
3. ShellCatch
The Shellcatch Electronic Monitoring (EM) system is an AI-powered onboard camera being deployed to enhance fisheries data collection, compliance, and traceability. It is able to provide real-time, automated monitoring solutions that strengthen sustainable fisheries management.
Find out more here: https://www.fisheries.gov.bb/shellcatch-advancing-electronic-monitoring-in-barbados/
Overall, the Division was able to reach more than 250 people over the three days, educating those who visited not only on the new technologies, but the common gear used by fisherfolk and the species seen in Barbados' waters through interactive activities and quizzes. Free samples of delicious lionfish were also a hit!
We were also grateful to have hosted Adam's Aquafarm which demonstrated a table-top version of an aquaponics setup; a food-production system that combines aquaculture and hydroponics (growing plants and fish in the same water), Shorelinez which educated those who visited on how they handle this fish waste, turning it into valuable fertilizer and animal feed through a special dehydration process using a bioprocessor, the Marine Spatial Plan Unit which taught visitors more about Barbados' expansive Exclusive Economic Zone, and the Barbados Game Fishing Association which generated interest in the upcoming 2025 Republic Bank Sir Charles Williams International Tournament in April!
All smiles at the Barbados Fisheries Division exhibition!
