Seabird Bycatch Mitigation: Minimum Standards for Pelagic Longline Fishing and Priorities for Further Research

ACAP's Seabird Bycatch Working Group (SBWG) recently reviewed available research on seabird bycatch mitigation measures for pelagic longline fishing to identify knowledge gaps and priorities for future research on pelagic mitigation technologies. A literature review of mitigation measures showed that some of the measures under consideration by the WCPFC Scientific Committee for use in Conservation and Management Measure 2006-02 would benefit from further development and testing. These measures were identified and priority-ranked. Minimum standards for specific mitigation measures were also identified and are provided to assist the WCPFC Scientific Committee in advising the Commission on developing minimum technical specifications for use in Conservation and Management Measure 2006-02. ACAP's Advisory Committee endorsed the outcomes of the SBWG's work, as representing the current best scientific advice, and encourages the WCPFC Scientific Committee and WCPFC Members to work together and with ACAP to conduct research on these measures as a part of implementing Conservation and Management Measure 2006-02.