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Sustainable Management of the Heard Island and McDonald Islands Fishery

The Heard Island and McDonald Islands Fishery has implemented various measures to ensure the sustainability of its fish populations and conservation of marine habitats. This comprehensive overview highlights the importance of these practices.

Fishing Quotas and Regulations

Fishing Quotas

  • The fishery has set quotas for Patagonian toothfish and mackerel icefish to ensure sustainable fishing practices.
  • These quotas are regularly reviewed and updated based on scientific assessments to prevent overfishing.

Logbooks and Record-Keeping

  • Fishers are required to maintain logbooks that record catch details, species caught, gear used, and other relevant information.
  • This data is essential for monitoring fish populations and ensuring compliance with fishing regulations.

Conservation Measures

Fishery Closures

  • There are two closures in the fishery:
    • One outside the Heard Island Plateau for mackerel icefish fishing
    • Another in waters adjacent to the islands where no fishing is allowed on the landward side of a specific line.

Species Sustainability

  • Assessments by the Australian Antarctic Division and CCAMLR indicate that Patagonian toothfish and mackerel icefish are not overfished or subject to overfishing.
  • This is due to the implementation of effective conservation measures, including quotas and regulations.

Bycatch Work Plans and Export Approvals

Bycatch Work Plans

  • A bycatch work plan outlines ways to minimize the catch of non-target species, which can include threatened and endangered species.
  • This plan helps to reduce the impact of fishing on marine ecosystems.

Export Approvals

  • The fishery has been granted an exemption for export under the EPBC Act, with conditions that must be followed.
  • These conditions ensure that exported products meet international standards for sustainability and conservation.

Marine Reserves and Conservation Efforts

Marine Reserves

  • There is a Heard Island and McDonald Islands marine reserve to conserve marine life and allow ecologically sustainable use of resources.
  • This reserve helps to protect biodiversity and maintain the health of marine ecosystems.

Industry Engagement and Governance

Regular Meetings with Industry Representatives

  • Regular meetings between AFMA officers and industry representatives discuss concerns and trends in fishing and catches during the season.
  • These meetings help to address any issues and ensure that the fishery is managed sustainably.

Sub-Antarctic Management Advisory Committee

  • An advisory body for the fishery, including representatives from AFMA, industry, scientific agencies, and environmental non-government organizations.
  • This committee provides input and advice on the management of the fishery.

Scientific Research and Monitoring

Onboard Observers

  • Scientific observers go out on boats to record catch, effort, and biological information of each fishing trip.
  • This data helps to monitor fish populations and ensure compliance with regulations.

Satellite Tracking

  • A Vessel Monitoring System (VMS) is fitted to every boat in the fishery to monitor vessel position, course, and speed.
  • This system helps to prevent overfishing and enforce catch limits.

Compliance and Enforcement

  • AFMA fisheries officers regularly inspect fishing boats and fish receivers to ensure compliance with rules.
  • These inspections help to maintain the integrity of the fishery and prevent any potential issues.