Effect of social networks on the economic performance of TURFs: The case of the artisanal fishermen organizations in Southern Chile

The effect of social capital on the economic performance of artisanal fishermen organizations that work under a Territorial Use Rights in Fisheries (TURF) system was tested using the social networks approach. The application was based on a sample of artisanal fishers organizations that extract the locally named “loco” (Concholepas concholepas) in Central-Southern Chile. Social networks were measured through organizations' structural properties and their bonding, linking, and bridging relationships. Economic performance was measured through per capita income. The results suggest that structural aspects and bonding and linking relationships are significant economic performance determinants for organizations. However, we did not find sufficient evidence relating to the effect bridging relationships have on economic performance. The results suggest orienting intervention policies towards training the directive teams and promoting associations between artisanal organizations, governmental, corporate, and consultant agents.