Abstract:

This paper outlines the main elements of observer coverage in the Scheme of International Scientific Observation (SISO) of the Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR), and reviews the performance outcomes of the scientific observation program for the Chinese krill fishery during the past six fishing seasons. The objective is to help members of the Chinese krill fishing fleet better understand and properly implement CCAMLR policies in the convention area. The SISO is one of the most important parts of the monitoring, control, and surveillance system of CCAMLR. It has a series management procedure including observer designation, observation task and function definition, assessment, and operational review. It is mandatory for all fisheries in the CCAMLR convention area to carry an observer. The observer coverage in the SISO is designed and operated at three levels: sampling of vessels, sampling of hauls among vessels, and sampling within hauls. Since commencing a krill fishery program in the 2009/10 fishing season, China has made every effort to ensure both maximum possible coverage and high-quality scientific observation. During the past six fishing seasons of 2009—2015, nearly 30 scientific observers have been deployed onboard 19 of the 23 operating vessels. The annual observed coverage of fishing days varied from 81%–100% (mean: 94%), and the annual vessel coverage ranged from 66%–100% (six year mean: 82%), greater than the minimum 50% requirement. To improve the quality and capability of Chinese observers in response to possible future adjustments of the management strategy regarding observer coverage, we suggest organizing an open and transparent observer training program using national and international experts. In addition, the recruitment of international observers would be a flexible and alternative way to overcome temporary shortages of qualified observer personnel.

Key words: Antarctic krill fishery, CCAMLR, SISO, observer coverage