River Boats Glide by Amelia Scott

River Boats Glide explores the profound influence of motorboats on the Amazon River basin, examining how this technological innovation has reshaped fishing practices, market access, and the overall socio-economic fabric of Amazonian communities. The book argues that while motorboats enhanced productivity for fishers, they also introduced challenges like overfishing and fuel dependence. By bridging earth sciences geography and economics, the book provides a holistic view of this transformative technology's impact.

The book investigates the geographic spread of motorboat adoption, its economic effects on fishing communities, and the changing market dynamics resulting from motorized transport. It also highlights the need for sustainable resource management to balance economic development with conservation, especially considering that historically, communities relied on canoes, limiting their reach. The book uniquely employs GIS and spatial econometrics to reveal shifts in resource use and socio-economic inequality.

The book begins by establishing the geographic context of the Amazon basin, then traces the history of motorboat adoption. Subsequent chapters delve into the impact on fishing efficiency, market access, and fisher livelihoods, culminating in a discussion of policy implications for sustainable fisheries management and equitable economic development. This approach offers a comprehensive understanding of the complex issues at stake, making the book valuable for policymakers and researchers alike.