Management of the Harvesting of Marine Species » Monitoring Fisheries Compliance

What you'll learn this session

Study time: 30 minutes

The importance of monitoring fisheries compliance
Different methods used to monitor fishing activities
Technology used in fisheries monitoring
International agreements and cooperation
Challenges in enforcement and compliance
Case studies of successful monitoring programmes

Introduction to Monitoring Fisheries Compliance

Fishing is vital for food security and livelihoods worldwide, but without proper monitoring, our oceans can quickly become depleted. Monitoring fisheries compliance means checking that fishing vessels and companies follow the rules designed to protect marine resources for the future.

Key Definitions:

Fisheries compliance: Following rules and regulations designed to ensure sustainable fishing practices.
IUU fishing: Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated fishing - activities that break fishing laws or occur outside of regulations.
Bycatch: Fish or other marine species caught unintentionally while fishing for a different species.
Quota: The amount of fish that can be legally caught in a specific area during a specific time period.

Why Monitoring Matters

Without effective monitoring, fishing regulations are just words on paper. Monitoring ensures that fishing activities don't harm marine ecosystems and that fish populations remain healthy for future generations.

★ Environmental Impact

Effective monitoring helps prevent overfishing, habitat destruction and excessive bycatch, protecting marine biodiversity and ecosystem health.

★ Economic Impact

Monitoring ensures fair competition among fishers and helps maintain fish stocks at levels that can support sustainable fishing industries and livelihoods.

Methods of Monitoring Fishing Activities

Countries use various approaches to monitor fishing activities in their waters. These methods work best when used together as part of a comprehensive monitoring strategy.

✓ Observer Programmes

Trained observers travel on fishing vessels to collect data on catch, fishing methods and compliance with regulations.

✓ Vessel Inspections

Officials inspect fishing vessels in port or at sea to check fishing gear, catch and documentation.

✓ Catch Documentation

Systems that track fish from catch to market, ensuring they were legally caught and accurately reported.

Technology in Fisheries Monitoring

Modern technology has revolutionised how we monitor fishing activities, making it possible to track vessels and fishing activity even in remote ocean areas.

♦ Vessel Monitoring Systems (VMS)

Satellite-based systems that track the location, speed and direction of fishing vessels. VMS helps authorities know where vessels are fishing and can alert them to suspicious activities, such as fishing in protected areas.

♦ Electronic Monitoring

Cameras and sensors on fishing vessels record fishing activities, including what's caught and what's thrown back. This technology can work 24/7 and provides a permanent record that can be reviewed by authorities.

Other important technologies include:

Automatic Identification System (AIS): Originally designed for safety, these transponders broadcast vessel identity and location, helping to track fishing fleets.
Drones and aerial surveillance: Used to spot illegal fishing in remote areas or where patrol vessels can't easily reach.
Satellite imagery: Can detect vessels that have turned off their tracking systems and are trying to fish illegally.

International Cooperation

Fish don't respect national boundaries, so countries must work together to monitor fishing activities effectively. International agreements and organisations help coordinate monitoring efforts across regions.

Key International Agreements

Several international agreements provide frameworks for monitoring fisheries:

UN Fish Stocks Agreement: Requires countries to monitor fishing activities and share information.
Port State Measures Agreement: Allows countries to deny port access to vessels suspected of illegal fishing.
Regional Fisheries Management Organisations (RFMOs): Coordinate monitoring and enforcement across regions.

Case Study Focus: EU's Common Fisheries Policy

The European Union's Common Fisheries Policy includes a comprehensive monitoring system. All EU fishing vessels over 12 metres must have a Vessel Monitoring System (VMS). Larger vessels must also keep electronic logbooks of their catches. The EU's control system includes inspections at sea and in ports, cross-checking of data and penalties for non-compliance. This coordinated approach has helped reduce illegal fishing in EU waters, though challenges remain.

Challenges in Monitoring and Enforcement

Despite advances in technology and international cooperation, monitoring fisheries compliance remains challenging.

! Resource Limitations

Many countries, especially developing nations, lack the resources for effective monitoring. Patrol vessels, trained personnel and technology are expensive and vast ocean areas are difficult to monitor.

! Enforcement Difficulties

Even when illegal fishing is detected, taking action can be difficult. Vessels may flee to international waters or ports where enforcement is weak. Legal processes can be slow and complex.

Successful Monitoring Approaches

Despite the challenges, several approaches have proven effective in improving fisheries compliance:

♥ Community-Based Monitoring

Local fishing communities help monitor and enforce regulations, as they have a direct interest in sustainable fisheries.

♥ Integrated Monitoring

Combining multiple methods (observers, VMS, inspections) creates a more effective monitoring system.

♥ Market-Based Approaches

Certification schemes and import requirements that demand proof of legal fishing can create economic incentives for compliance.

Case Study Focus: Chile's Monitoring System

Chile has developed an effective monitoring system for its valuable fisheries. The country uses a combination of satellite monitoring, on-board observers and port inspections. Chile also involves fishing communities in monitoring and management decisions. This integrated approach has helped reduce illegal fishing and improve the sustainability of Chile's fisheries. The system is particularly notable for its use of technology alongside traditional monitoring methods, creating multiple layers of oversight.

The Future of Fisheries Monitoring

Monitoring systems continue to evolve as technology advances and our understanding of effective approaches improves.

Emerging trends include:

Artificial intelligence: AI can analyse vast amounts of data from monitoring systems to identify suspicious fishing patterns.
Blockchain technology: Creates tamper-proof records of fish from catch to consumer, improving traceability.
Collaborative platforms: Allow different countries and agencies to share monitoring data and coordinate responses.
Increased transparency: Public access to monitoring data helps create accountability for fishing activities.

Summary

Monitoring fisheries compliance is essential for sustainable management of marine resources. Effective monitoring combines various methods and technologies, from observer programmes to satellite tracking. International cooperation is crucial, as fish move across national boundaries. While challenges remain, especially for countries with limited resources, successful monitoring approaches show that it's possible to ensure fishing rules are followed. As technology continues to advance, monitoring systems will become more effective at detecting and preventing illegal fishing activities.

Remember, effective monitoring doesn't just protect fish - it protects marine ecosystems, fishing livelihoods and food security for future generations.

🧠 Test Your Knowledge!