Ross Sea region Data Collection Protocols

The Scientific Committee recommended the adoption of the Ross Sea region Data Collection Protocol (RSDCP) to commence for the 2023/24 to 2027/28 fishing seasons. The proposed changes are limited to (i) a new field that allows noting the additional samples, to be added to the observer biological sample and tag recapture forms and the C2 tag recapture form, and (ii) the reintroduction of the skate injury condition field on both observer and C2 forms. We note that this change should be adopted for the forms, and recommend WG-FSA discuss how this may be implemented for the upcoming season.