Making the Invisible Visible: The Effects of Gas Flaring on Artisanal Fisheries in the Down-Stream Area of Taylor Creek, Bayelsa State, Nigeria

RATIONALE: Gas flaring is a significant environmental concern in many regions, including the downstream area of Taylor Creek, Bayelsa State, Nigeria. Its impact on artisanal fisheries, a vital economic activity in the area, warrants investigation to understand the extent of its effects. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to assess the effects of gas flaring on artisanal fisheries in the downstream area of Taylor Creek, Bayelsa State, Nigeria, from August 2023 to January 2024. METHODS: Structured questionnaires were utilized in a descriptive survey research design to collect data during the specified period. RESULTS: The study found that gas flaring profoundly affects artisanal fisheries activities in the area. These effects include a drastic reduction in fish catch, extinction of certain fish species, increased fish prices, indiscriminate fish mortality, disrupted fishing schedules, altered water body dynamics, impaired spawning activities, fish migration, and economic hardships for fishers. Additionally, gas flaring contributes to fish size reduction, abandonment of the fishing sector by artisanal fishers, increased time spent on fishing, and accelerated degradation of fishing implements. CONCLUSION: Gas flaring negatively impacts artisanal fisheries in the downstream area of Taylor Creek, Bayelsa State, Nigeria. Urgent measures are necessary to mitigate these effects and preserve the local ecosystem. RECOMMENDATION: To address these issues, it is recommended that gas flaring be utilized for beneficial purposes such as gas injection or electricity generation. Government intervention is needed to restore extraction areas, and companies must adopt safe and environmentally friendly operations to prevent further environmental degradation. Additionally, new legislation should be enacted to protect the environment and control pollution caused by gas flaring in the study area. These measures are essential for safeguarding the environment and sustaining artisanal fisheries in the region.