SG-ASAM-12

Well-defined research objectives (e.g. estimation of biomass in a pre-defined region) are required prior to designing surveys and defining data collection requirements. The intention at this point is to scope the likely range of research objectives that CCAMLR would wish to address using fishing vessel acoustic data. These research objectives can then be used to constrain the following discussions on survey design, data collection and analysis.

A template for possible research objectives for krill fishing vessel acoustic data collection is provided in Annex 1 and will be used as a basis for discussion of objectives prior to and during the meeting.

Given the range of research objectives from 2.1, we look at what can be achieved with differing levels of survey effort, ranging from scientific survey designs to just collection of acoustic data as part of the normal commercial fishing operations. One output should be a table showing what objectives can be achieved with differing levels of survey design and effort. This should incorporate a discussion of implications of incorporating repeat transects (including those from previous surveys).

Echo sounder requirements for different research objectives.

Consideration of other data, including ship’s motion, course, heading, speed, any meteorological and oceanographic data and relevant meta-data.

Brief consideration of effects of vessel design, noise and acoustic interference on acoustic data collection.

Define minimum requirements for acoustic data collection that could provide quantifiable estimates of krill biomass/distribution, recognising that fishing vessels may not be configured to collect acoustic data at 38, 120 and 200 kHz as per the CCAMLR protocol. Should include whether data are to be collected by scientists/observers (supervised) or vessel crew (unsupervised). Where data are to be collected in an unsupervised manner, SG-ASAM has been requested to provide a detailed set of instructions to ensure that acoustic data are properly collected and stored.

What biological and other non-acoustic data (e.g. CPUE, data from fished aggregations etc.) are required to interpret the acoustic data? To what extent must biological data be collected during the survey periods as opposed to that collected during commercial fishing? Are data to be collected in a supervised or unsupervised manner?

Requirements for obtaining a calibrated output

Discussion and recommendation of appropriate target identification methods and processing relevant to equipment and protocols for fishing vessels acoustic data.

Discuss appropriate techniques for different objectives and survey designs.

Advice on most appropriate data formats and data management implications of collection of acoustic data and associated ancillary and biological data.

Here we summarise our preferred combinations of objective, survey design, protocol and analysis. Should there be a single recommended protocol for all participants or do we chose several different scenarios with differing levels of survey effort? Also explore the concept of ‘cooperative surveys’ where survey effort is coordinated between vessels.

Opportunity to discuss any recent developments either as tabled papers or communication from participants.

Opportunity to discuss any recent developments either as tabled papers or communication from participants.

These will be taken from the body of the report to address issues raised in SC-CAMLR-XXX, Annex 4, paragraph 2.225, plus any additional relevant issues (paragraph 2.226)