The paper draws on comparative data from other places of the world to investigate weirs and traps, and to see if a similar revival could be observed. A recent survey in Yap, Federated States of Micronesia found a diverse and extensive number of fish weirs and traps, and a community keen to restore and reinvigorate their associated cultural practices and community spirit. It was considered that they have fulfilled their historical and economic role and it was the loss of community spirit that has contributed to their decline. In many places the weirs and traps have been left to deteriorate and other more productive but less sustainable practices have taken their place. Stone wall fish weirs and traps were once an important means for inland and coastal communities to catch fish. ![]() Of the 46 aech surveyed, at least 12 different styles and shapes were found. The project successfully located 432 aech in ten Municipalities and surveyed 46 aech in nine municipalities. This survey, while it included the mapping of many aech locations and more detailed mapping of some, also included the collection of oral histories so the whole aech story could be told, although in the short survey time period and given the depth of the cultural and natural associations and complexities, the project only scratched the surface. The aech is a symbol of Yapese originality, and their unique cultural, social and natural relationships. They were also not used on many occasions so fish could come and go from within the aech and to ‘feel at home’. The aech was designed and built to suit the local environment, to take advantage of the way certain fish move along the shoreline as well as further offshore, in addition to the strength and direction of currents, wind and the location of channels. The aech is a unique example of how a society can exploit as well as live in harmony with its natural resources. A 120 page report, brochure and poster, of which all can be found on a dedicated website were produced as tangible outcomes for YSHPO to pursue a project in restoring some aech and reviving the associated cultural practices. ![]() In 2008/2009 Yap State Historic Preservation Office (YSHPO) implemented a survey of their fish weirs (aech).
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