National Parks and Wildlife Services

Geological Survey Ireland

Partners:

INFOMAR

Assessment of fisheries/habitat interaction on offshore reefs: SeaRover Phase 2

Duration:

SeaRover began in 2017 and the final Synthesis phase of the project is due to run in 2020.

Project Outputs:

Synopsis and Synthesis report of the three mapping surveys
Report of internationally best practice on using benthic data to support MPA designation and management
Inclusion of SeaRover Database in the data catalogue for MSP
Web GIS spatial layers including offshore reef layersScoping and development of data products arising from the above to be used for policy support.
Outreach material relating to the above.

Expected Benefit:

Outcome of stakeholder consultation and summary of required data products and dissemination tools for policy support;
Development of data products in support of Habitats Directive and Marine Strategy Framework Directive, as well as MSP and CFP.
Acquired data sets feed into the MSP interactive tool

Further Information:

Contact: Fergal McGrath. fergal.mcgrath@marine.ie

Project Cost - Projected:

€100,000

Related Projects:

SeaRover (Phase 1) Assessment of Fisheries/Habitat Interaction on Offshore Reefs

Project Tags:

Endangered Species

Fisheries

Phase:

Project Status:

Ongoing

Ecosystem data collection on Irish fisheries surveys in support of MSFD, Natura and Habitat mapping Phase 2

jkeane — Mon, 27 Apr 2020 12:35:40 +0000

Ecosystem data collection on Irish fisheries surveys in support of MSFD, Natura and Habitat mapping Phase 2

As part of the data collection framework, the Marine Institute conducts ten annual fisheries research surveys at sea to provide fisheries independent data for stock assessment. These surveys can be used as platforms of opportunities for the collection of additional ecosystem data to support the reporting requirements for environmental legislation including MSFD, Natura and MSP. This study continues from the 2017-2018 project and explores the application of ecosystem data collection on fisheries surveys in three thematic areas:

Collection of marine mammal and seabird observational data on acoustic and mackerel egg surveys to support MSFD; Article 17 reporting for Habitats directive and reporting under the Birds directive;
Collection of sediment samples on fisheries surveys and subsequent particle size analysis to support the improvement of sediment classification maps of the Irish Shelf;
Analysis of benthic macroinvertebrate bycatch data collected on the Irish groundfish survey to develop indicators and monitoring programmes for MSFD benthic habitats under descriptor 1 (Biodiversity) and descriptor 6 (Seafloor integrity).

The Marine Institute fisheries survey programme includes acoustics for Northeast Atlantic blue whiting and boarfish stocks and Northwest and Celtic Sea Herring stocks. Every three years, FEAS also participates in the internationally coordinated mackerel and horse mackerel egg survey. Acoustic and egg and larval surveys are particularly suitable for marine mammal observations. Data collection protocols for marine mammal observations have been reviewed and optimized to feed into biodiversity reporting. Data collection will supplement requirements for Article 17 reporting under the habitats directive, as well as provide data for MSFD and the National Biodiversity Data Centre. The project continues from the 2017-2018 project due to satisfactory output in the initial two years. Project partnership includes the MI (FEAS) and NPWS. The project design is based on a letter by enduser NPWS. In addition to marine mammal observations, the feasibility to carry out seabird observations on the same surveys will be tested to contribute to national and international reporting obligations.

Fisheries surveys can be used as platforms of opportunities for the collection of benthic and sediment samples in support of other national initiatives such as INFOMAR, the national seabed mapping program. There is an ongoing requirement for substrate maps that accurately depict the sediment properties of the seabed to benefit fisheries resource management, reporting under environmental legislations such as MSFD, conservation, marine spatial planning, industry and research. Substrate/sediment maps are routinely created by the INFOMAR program and are based on two primary datasets: acoustic data (primarily bathymetry and backscatter derived from multibeam echosounders) and groundtruthing data, such as sediment sample and video transects. With INFOMAR phase 2 (2016-2026) primarily focused on achieving 100% seabed coverage on all remaining coastal and offshore areas, including the Celtic Sea and West coast of Ireland, there is an opportunity to review the existing seabed sampling strategy in support of the creation of high resolution substrate/sediment maps for the entire Irish shelf. To date, the production of high resolution substrate maps has been challenging for a number of reasons, including the sparse availability of sediment samples, which are critical to verify substrate interpretations and to provide greater confidence in the substrate maps. Based on satisfactory results achieved in 2018, the project will continue in 2019 and 2020. Most of the sediment samples collection will be achieved opportunistically during fisheries surveys when the vessel is not engaged in core survey targets, and hence acquisition costs will be minimal. Database and GIS management will be managed by INFOMAR with envisaged contractual support.

Another key deliverable under the MSFD is information in support of Seafloor Integrity (D6) and Biodiversity (D1). To this end, a pilot study was carried out in 2018, to evaluate the utility of the macro-invertebrate by-catch data from Irish groundfish surveys to support those objectives. This review will feed into discussion at ICES around the quality and consistency of this bycatch data across national surveys so it can be stored centrally in the ICES international data base for trawl survey data (DATRAS) at an appropriate level of aggregation as per 3^rd party requests such as OSPAR. This preliminary study proved useful and needs to now be concluded over a 3 month period to produce a structured quantitative research report summarising the current data set available for these descriptors and a proposal for long term monitoring program

jkeane Mon, 04/27/2020 - 12:35

Partners:

Ecosystem Data Collection on Irish Fisheries Surveys in Support of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD)

The project is carried out in close collaboration with the Marine Institute (Fisheries Ecosystem Advisory Services and Advanced Mapping Services), National Parks and Wildlife Services, and its parent department, Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht.

Duration:

The project has a 2 year duration and runs between 2019 and 2020.

Project Outputs:

Survey reports and distributional data on marine mammals in accordance with end-user reporting requirements.
Data obtained from the collection of sediment samples and relative Particle Size Analysis. These data will be integrated and will enhance current sediment properties databases and related GIS-web GIS services. By-product will be the improved and more accurate sediment classification maps of the Irish Shelf.
Quantify and report on the prevalence of species encountered on IGFS re. the VME data call species and the obligation in Annex 1D of Implementing Decision 2016 1251 of the DCMAP.
Summarize and report on the overall macro-invertebrate bycatch data from the IGFS in the context of potential inputs to the relevant MSFD indicators.

Expected Benefit:

Data collection on four acoustic fisheries surveys on the distribution of marine mammals to supplement requirements for Article 17 reporting under the habitats directive, and the distribution of the birds directive.
Data provision of the same to MSFD and the National Biodiversity Data Centre.
Collection of benthic and sediment samples in support of other national initiatives such as INFOMAR, the national seabed mapping program.
Recommendations on the data collection of ecosystem data on Fisheries surveys.
Meet our obligations under MSFD/DCMAP.

Further Information:

Contact Maurice Clarke at maurice.clarke@marine.ie

Project Cost - Projected:

€196,000

Related Projects:

Project Tags:

MSFD

Phase:

Project Status:

Publication

EMFF Cetacean Monitoring BWAS 2018 EMFF Cetacean Monitoring BWAS 2018

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EMFF Cetacean Monitoring BWAS 2021 EMFF Cetacean Monitoring BWAS 2021

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EMFF Cetacean Monitoring CSHS 2019 EMFF Cetacean Monitoring CSHS 2019

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EMFF Cetacean Monitoring CSHS 2020 EMFF Cetacean Monitoring CSHS 2020

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EMFF Cetacean Monitoring CSHS 2021 EMFF Cetacean Monitoring CSHS 2021

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EMFF Cetacean Monitoring CSHS 2022 EMFF Cetacean Monitoring CSHS 2022

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EMFF Cetacean Monitoring MEGS 2019 EMFF Cetacean Monitoring MEGS 2019

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EMFF Cetacean Monitoring WESPAS 2018 EMFF Cetacean Monitoring WESPAS 2018

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EMFF Cetacean Monitoring WESPAS 2021 EMFF Cetacean Monitoring WESPAS 2021

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EMFF Cetacean Monitoring WESPAS 2022 EMFF Cetacean Monitoring WESPAS 2022

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EMFF Cetacean Monitoring WESPAS 2023 EMFF Cetacean Monitoring WESPAS 2023

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EMFF Seabird Monitoring BWAS 2021 EMFF Seabird Monitoring BWAS 2021

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EMFF Seabird Monitoring CSHS 2019 EMFF Seabird Monitoring CSHS 2019

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EMFF Seabird Monitoring CSHS 2020 EMFF Seabird Monitoring CSHS 2020

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EMFF Seabird Monitoring CSHS 2021 EMFF Seabird Monitoring CSHS 2021

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EMFF Seabird Monitoring CSHS 2022 EMFF Seabird Monitoring CSHS 2022

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EMFF Seabird Monitoring CSHS 2023 EMFF Seabird Monitoring CSHS 2023

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EMFF Seabird Monitoring WESPAS 2019 EMFF Seabird Monitoring WESPAS 2019

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EMFF Seabird Monitoring WESPAS 2020 EMFF Seabird Monitoring WESPAS 2020

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EMFF Seabird Monitoring WESPAS 2021 EMFF Seabird Monitoring WESPAS 2021

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EMFF Seabird Monitoring WESPAS 2022 EMFF Seabird Monitoring WESPAS 2022

Assessment of Species Catch Composition in Fisheries Posing a Risk to Biodiversity Phase 2

jkeane — Fri, 24 Apr 2020 14:50:16 +0000

Assessment of Species Catch Composition in Fisheries Posing a Risk to Biodiversity Phase 2

The estimation of bycatch of protected, endangered and threatened species (PET) in commercial fisheries and its sustainability assessment is an important consideration in the implementation of the Common Fisheries Policy, the Marine Strategy Framework directive (Descriptor 1) and the Habitats and Bird’s directives. Since 2016, the reporting of all bycatch is a requirement of the data collection framework to support this assessment (EU MAP: EU- 2016 1251). This project follows on from the assessment of species catch composition in Phase 1.

Although Ireland currently has an observer programme on commercial inshore and offshore fleet metiers, and records all bycatch, these programmes are optimised for assessment of fish catches for the Data Collection Framework (DCF). PET species are not typical in fish catches but occur sporadically but also potentially catastrophically in the case of small or localised/resident populations (i.e. potentially high but infrequent by-catch). Estimates for such zero inflated data are difficult to obtain and the resolution of this problem requires an enhanced observer programme for fleet metiers that pose the highest risk of by-catch of such species. In 2017-2018, in consultation with other end-users, the fisheries that have been identified as posing the highest risk to bycatch and warrant an enhanced bycatch programme, are set net fisheries in the first instance. These have received additional sampling effort on a national and regional level (SW table net fishery). In 2018, additional effort has been provided to the pelagic trawl fishery catching horse mackerel.

This enhanced data collection could usefully be combined with sample provision to existing studies (e.g., population genetics) to augment information on the population ecology of species that are incidentally caught. High uncertainty of by-catch is one of the gaps identified in the Fisheries Natura risk assessment for seals and cetaceans (Marine Institute 2015).
The at sea observer programme will be used to collect bycatch data. As in Phase 1, observers will collect small tissue samples from by-caught species for laboratory analysis (i.e., skin and blubber biopsy) and collect seabird carcasses to enhance data collection. In 2019-2020, observers will be provided with small toolkits related to the collection and storage of tissue samples.
A co-ordinating observer will be contracted to manage the enhanced observer programme. This will include the identification and allocation of trips to observers across the different metiers, payments to observers and logging of data & sample returns. All SOPs and data management procedures for this type of work are already established in the Marine Institute. Methods will be reviewed based on the outcomes from the EASME funded project fishPi2 and the ICES workshop PETSAMP.

jkeane Fri, 04/24/2020 - 14:50

Partners:

Galway Mayo Institute of Technology

IWDG

DAFM Veterinary Laboratory

The project is carried out in close collaboration with the Marine Institute (Fisheries Ecosystem Advisory Services), National Parks and Wildlife Services, and its parent department, Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht (DCHG). The post-mortem examinations of stranded cetaceans are carried out on behalf of the project partners by the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group (IWDG), Galway Mayo Institute of Technology and the Veterinary Laboratory of the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) benefitting from specimen collected under the Cetacean Strandings Scheme.

Duration:

The project has a 2 year duration and runs between 2019 and 2020.

Project Outputs:

Screening of stranded carcasses of seals and small cetaceans: Although the observer programme observes a sample of the fisheries by-catch in real time and can provide estimates of total by-catch for different metiers if there is adequate coverage, additional information can be obtained if the cause of mortality of stranded animals is determined. Under Ireland’s ongoing Cetacean Strandings Scheme a small proportion of the annual stranding records show scientifically established external signs of fisheries by-catch, including broken bones, obvious net marks, gear entanglement or fins cleanly removed. In parallel with its at-sea observation method, the enhanced monitoring programme provides an important opportunity to subsample stranded marine mammal carcasses for evidence of by-catch interaction, if this occurs. It is aimed to use both components of the study to inform one another, improve the assessment of relevant metiers of concern and to enhance scientific and management understanding of such interactions and their risk to protected species. This project will establish contracts for the targeted recovery and post-mortem examination of a sub-sample of small cetaceans stranded around the south and west coasts of Ireland through liaison with the coordinator of the Cetacean Strandings Scheme and through international best practice in post-mortem examination (PME).

Data obtained from Phase 1 and Phase 2 will be used to model the risk of bycatch to populations of different PET species.
Future sampling recommendations: Results from the enhanced by-catch monitoring programme will be reviewed in relation to end-user requirements. Recommendations on sampling methodologies and sampling effort for bycatch monitoring will be drafted to inform future data collection programmes (link to UP3) and will feed into the review of EUMAP.
Bycatch data will be disseminated to endusers via official data calls and in direct consultation with national and international endusers (eg DAFM, DCHG, DHPLG, ICES, DCF RCG North Atlantic ).

Expected Benefit:

Improved scientific reporting in on bycatch events of seals, small cetaceans, seabirds and rare and endangered species by fishing metier.
Scientific reporting on the evidence, if any, for fisheries by-catch in the population of stranded cetaceans around the Irish coast.
Training of Irish scientists in international best practice where PME of marine mammals is concerned.
Contribution of key tissue samples of relevance in assessing population structure and ecology among the species by-caught in monitored metiers.
Future estimates of the population level effects of by-catch on seals, small cetaceans and rare and endangered species.
Recommendations and management coordination on mitigation measures to ensure compliance with EU Directives.
Recommendations on sampling methodologies and sampling effort for bycatch monitoring to inform future data collection programmes under revised EUMAP (link to UP3).
8. Enhanced ability to advise on permissible by-catch levels for marine mammals.

Further Information:

Contact ailbhe.kavanagh@marine.ie

Project Cost - Projected:

€500,000

Related Projects:

Assessment of Species Catch Composition in Fisheries Posing a Risk to Biodiversity

Project Tags:

Fisheries

Geological Survey Ireland

Phase:

Project Status:

Ongoing

Assessment of fisheries/habitat interaction on offshore reefs: SeaRover Phase 2

jkeane — Fri, 14 Feb 2020 15:12:56 +0000

Assessment of fisheries/habitat interaction on offshore reefs: SeaRover Phase 2

Consistent with sub-article 6.2 of the Habitats Directive (EC 92/43/EEC), which requires member states to take measures to avoid deterioration of protected habitats, Ireland will undertake a further mapping survey of offshore reefs in 2019 to evaluate status and introduce conservation and management measures in proportion to status and pressures from fishing. This study has been identified as highest priority by DAHG for the marine environment and is based on a letter by DAHCG to DAFM (attached).

Under the Habitat’s directive reporting requirements, Ireland has reported to the European Commission that Annex I habitat reef is in unfavourable/bad status in its waters, and this is primarily arising from fisheries-related issues in the offshore resource. Reviewing habitat fisheries interaction and arising conservation requirements is of high priority for offshore reef habitats to fulfil Ireland’s obligation under the habitat’s directive. Existing information and datasets on deep Ireland’s deep reef habitat have been collated to assess the known extent and status of reef in water depths greater than 200m and evaluate sensitivities of deep reef habitats as part of a commissioned desk study by DCHG.

Spatial information on reef habitats was overlaid with VMS data from fishing vessels disaggregated by fishing gear to link potential impact with habitat sensitivity and identify data deficiencies.
The desk study on reef habitats combined with the analysis of terrain data derived from the INFOMAR national seabed survey along with the spatial VMS overlay has formed the basis of reef habitats selected for direct observation as part of reef surveys over the past two years. The surveys are using Ireland’s remote operated vehicle and a drop-frame camera to collect video footage and stills along fixed transects for detailed investigation and mapping of Annex 1 reef
habitat.
Areas of focus are reefs with high conservation value and low interaction of fishing effort.

In selecting new sites to be surveyed for 2019, the following aspects will be taken into account:
1. Existing data records
2. Level of fishing pressure, focussing on low impact sites;
3. Geographical distribution in relation to existing designations.
4. Coverage of sites in 2017 and 2018 as part of SeaRover project Phase 1.

The 2019 survey will visit an existing SAC designation and monitor signs of impact and recovery along transects that have been previously surveyed in 2009. This data will be used to evaluate detection of change and effects of mitigation in designated sites.
The project will be carried out in close collaboration with the Marine Institute (with contribution from the service areas of Advanced Mapping, Fisheries and Research vessel operations) and DAHG to ensure appropriate staff expertise is provided and project objectives are achieved.
Final data analysis, compilation and dissemination will be concluded at the end of the project (2020). A consultation with the most important endusers will be carried out to ensure that that data products and dissemination processes are adequate and fit for purpose.

On a national level, the critical endusers are DAFM, DCHG, DPHLG, DCCAE. On an international level, the endusers include ICES, OSPAR and the EU. The National Biodiversity Centre will be included in the consultation to maximise existing dissemination tools.

jkeane Fri, 02/14/2020 - 15:12

Partners:

INFOMAR

Duration:

The project has a 2 year duration and runs between 2019 and 2020.

Project Outputs:

1. Assessment of Irish National Seabed Survey bathymetric data and existing offshore reef data to identify high likelihood of reef distribution.

2. Review of VMS overlay of vessels using bottom impacting gears.

3. Proposed survey design based on fisheries (VMS) habitat interaction of Irish reef habitats >200m.

4. Survey reports of the ROV offshore reef survey.

5. Data output of each reef survey:

I. Drop camera stills and video footage along predefined transects of targeted annex 1 reef habitat.

II. Ground-truthed habitat characterisation and species inventory on transects.

III. Quantitative data on % reef cover

IV. Quantitative data on % living/dead and reef occupation

V. Qualitative assessment of ground truthed pressure impacts.

6. Project reports detailing survey and data analysis results.

7. Data dissemination via web interface including offshore reef web map viewer.

8. Outreach material relating to the above.

Expected Benefit:

1. Characterisation of offshore reef habitat in Irish EEZ at selected sites to include existing designations and areas of low fishing impact and limited data availability
2. Evaluation of fishing impact on reef habitat at selected offshores sites
3. Input data to support reporting requirements for Ireland under the Habitats Directive and Marine Strategy Framework Directive.
4. The 2019 survey will visit one of the offshore SACs thus providing comprehensive data for the completion of the site specific conservation objectives for this SAC.
5. Of the six offshore SACs all bar one have been surveyed over the three years of this programme; the last site will be visited in 2019 thus completing the monitoring of all of Ireland’s offshore SACs.

Further Information:

Support for MSFD and Biodiversity Support; 2019 -2020 projects
Contact Fergal McGrath. fergal.mcgrath@marine.ie

Project Cost - Projected:

1,000,000

Project Tags:

Geological Survey Ireland

Phase:

Project Status:

Ongoing

SeaRover (Phase 1) Assessment of Fisheries/Habitat Interaction on Offshore Reefs

dkelly — Wed, 27 Jun 2018 07:38:30 +0000

SeaRover (Phase 1) Assessment of Fisheries/Habitat Interaction on Offshore Reefs

As part of the European Habitats Directive (EC 92/43/EEC), Member States need to take measures to avoid deterioration of protected habitats. Ireland is carrying out extensive mapping surveys of offshore reefs to evaluate status and introduce conservation and management measures in proportion to status and pressures from fishing. This study has been identified as high priority by the Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht (DCHG) for the marine environment to fulfil Ireland’s obligations under the Habitats Directive.

Under the Habitat’s Directive reporting requirements, Ireland has reported to the European Commission that Annex I habitat reef is in unfavourable/bad status in its waters, and this is primarily arising from fisheries-related issues in the offshore resource. Reviewing habitat fisheries interaction and arising conservation requirements is of high priority for offshore reef habitats. Existing information and datasets on Ireland’s deep reef habitat have been collated to assess the status of reef in water greater than 200m and evaluate sensitivities of deep reef habitats as part of a commissioned desk study by DCHG.

Spatial information on reef habitats were overlaid with activity data from fishing vessels using different gears to link potential impact with habitat sensitivity and identify data deficiencies.

The desk study on reef habitats and spatial fisheries overlay formed the basis of reef habitats to be surveyed as part of two 3 week reef surveys in 2017 and 2018 respectively. The surveys use Ireland’s remote operated vehicle Holland 1 to collect video footage and stills along fixed transects for detailed investigation and mapping of Annex 1 reef habitat. Areas of focus are reefs with high conservation value and low interaction of fishing effort. In selecting new sites to be surveyed, the following aspects were taken into account:

Data availability for pre-screening
Level of fishing pressure, focussing on low impact sites
Geographical distribution in relation to existing designations and certain geomorphological features including canyons and escarpments

The 2017 survey also re-visited an existing SAC designation to monitor signs of impact and recovery along transects originally surveyed in 2009. This data will be used to evaluate detection of change and effects of mitigation in designated sites.

dkelly Wed, 06/27/2018 - 07:38

Partners:

INFOMAR

The project is carried out in close collaboration with the Marine Institute (Fisheries Ecosystem Advisory Services and Advanced Mapping Services), INFOMAR, the Geological Survey Ireland and National Parks and Wildlife Services, and their relevant parent departments to ensure appropriate staff expertise is provided and project objectives are achieved. Additional financial contributions are made by DCHG.

Duration:

The project is carried out in two phases. Phase 1 runs between 2017 and 2018 and includes 2 offshore mapping surveys. Phase 2 will run between 2019 and 2020.

Project Outputs:

The project is ongoing. The expected outcomes are listed below:

Assessment of Irish National Seabed Survey and compiled reef habitat data in Irish offshore waters to identify high likelihood of reef distribution
VMS overlay of vessels using bottom impacting gears
Proposed survey design based on fisheries habitat interaction of Irish reef habitats >200m
Survey reports of two 3 week ROV habitat mapping surveys
Data output of each reef survey
Data dissemination via web interphase
Outreach material relating to the above

Expected Benefit:

The video data acquired during the surveys will help to map the extent of sensitive ecosystems in Irish waters and broaden our ecological understanding of these leading to the sustainable management of Ireland’s marine biodiversity. It will further support the:
• Characterisation of offshore reef habitat in the Irish EEZ at selected sites to include existing designations and areas of low fishing impact and limited data availability
• Evaluation of fishing impact on reef habitat at selected offshores sites
• Provide input data to support reporting requirements for Ireland under the Habitats Directive and the Marine Strategy Framework Directive

Further Information:

Contact David O’Sullivan, Marine Institute, Rinville, Oranmore, Co. Galway at david.osullivan@marine.ie

Project Cost - Projected:

€1,400,000 (with €200,000 contribution from DCHG)

Project Tags:

Phase:

Project Status:

Publication

SeaRover Cruise Report SeaRover Cruise Report

Publication

Project Insert Project Insert

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Ecosystem Data Collection on Irish Fisheries Surveys in Support of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD)

dkelly — Wed, 27 Jun 2018 07:02:40 +0000

Ecosystem Data Collection on Irish Fisheries Surveys in Support of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD)

As part of the data collection framework, the Marine Institute conducts ten annual fisheries research surveys at sea to provide fisheries independent data for stock assessment. Survey programmes include acoustics for Northeast Atlantic blue whiting and boarfish stocks and Northwest and Celtic Sea Herring stocks. Every three years, the Marine Institute also participates in the internationally coordinated mackerel and horse mackerel egg survey.

These surveys can be used as platforms of opportunities for the collection of additional ecosystem data to maximise vessel time. Acoustic and egg and larval surveys are particularly suitable for marine mammal observations. Data collection protocols for marine mammal observations have been reviewed and optimized to feed into biodiversity reporting. This project is based on specific end-user requirements by National Parks and Wildlife Services, and its parent department, Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht. Data collection will supplement requirements for Article 17 reporting under the Habitats Directive, as well as provide data for MSFD and the National Biodiversity Data Centre. The project will initially run from beginning of 2017 to end of 2018, and it may be continued until 2020 based on satisfactory output in the initial two years.

Additionally, fisheries surveys can be used as platforms of opportunities for the collection of benthic and sediment samples in support of other national initiatives such as INFOMAR, the national seabed mapping programme. There is an ongoing requirement for substrate maps that accurately depict the sediment properties of the seabed to benefit fisheries resource management, conservation, marine spatial planning, industry and research. Substrate/sediment maps are routinely created by the INFOMAR programme and are based on two primary datasets: acoustic data (primarily bathymetry and backscatter derived from multibeam echosounders) and groundtruthing data, such as sediment sample and video transects.

With INFOMAR Phase 2 (2016-2026) primarily focused on achieving 100% seabed coverage on all remaining coastal and offshore areas, including the Celtic Sea and West coast of Ireland, there is an opportunity to review the existing seabed sampling strategy in support of the creation of high resolution substrate/sediment maps for the entire Irish shelf. To date, the production of high resolution substrate maps has been challenging for a number of reasons, including the sparse availability of sediment samples, which are critical to verify substrate interpretations and to provide greater confidence in the substrate maps.

Most of the sediment samples collection will be achieved opportunistically during fisheries surveys when the vessel is not engaged on core survey targets, and hence acquisition costs will be minimal. Database and GIS management will be managed by INFOMAR.

dkelly Wed, 06/27/2018 - 07:02

Partners:

Duration:

The project has a 2 year duration and runs between 2017 and 2018. The project will initially run from beginning of 2017 to end of 2018, and it may be continued until 2020 based on satisfactory output in the initial two years.

Project Outputs:

Survey reports and distributional data on marine mammals in accordance with end-user reporting requirements.
Data obtained from the collection of sediment samples and relative particle size analysis. These data will be integrated and will enhance current sediment properties databases and related GIS-web services. A by-product

Expected Benefit:

1. Data collection on four acoustic fisheries surveys on the distribution of marine mammals to supplement requirements for Article 17 reporting under the Habitats Directive
2. Data provision of the same to MSFD and the National Biodiversity Data Centre
3. Collection of benthic and sediment samples in support of other national initiatives such as INFOMAR, the national seabed mapping programme
4. Recommendations on the data collection of ecosystem data on fisheries surveys

Further Information:

Contact Maurice Clarke at maurice.clarke@marine.ie

Project Cost - Projected:

€60,000

Project Tags:

MSFD

Phase:

Project Status:

Publication

Project Insert Project Insert

Assessment of Species Catch Composition in Fisheries Posing a Risk to Biodiversity

dkelly — Wed, 27 Jun 2018 06:58:36 +0000

Assessment of Species Catch Composition in Fisheries Posing a Risk to Biodiversity

Static net fisheries are known to pose a potentially widespread risk of capture to a number of designated species including grey seal, harbour seal and small cetaceans (i.e. porpoises and dolphins). Furthermore some metiers within the static net fleet also have a by-catch of rare and endangered fish species, of commercial species subject to TAC, and potentially there are also incidences of seabird by-catch. However, because of the nature of the fishery operations (e.g., vessel sizes, seasonality, variable soak times and depths, weather constraints) and of the prevalence and distribution of this by-catch, especially seals and cetaceans, it is difficult to quantify and assess the current spatial/temporal dimension of the interaction and its population level effects. More scientific sampling data are required from relevant regions to increase the precision and accuracy of the existing by-catch estimates. This enhanced data collection could usefully be combined with sample provision to existing studies (e.g., population genetics) to augment information on the population ecology of species that are incidentally caught. High uncertainty of by-catch is one of the gaps identified in the fisheries Natura risk assessment for seals and cetaceans. By-catch is also flagged as an important pressure/threat in Ireland’s reporting on the conservation status of such species to the European Commission under Article 17 of the Habitats Directive. Although Ireland currently has an observer programme on many of the commercial inshore and offshore fleet metiers these programmes are optimised for assessment of fish catches for the Data Collection Framework (DCF). Designated or rare and endangered species are not typical in fish catches but occur sporadically but also potentially catastrophically in the case of small or localised/resident populations (i.e. potentially high but infrequent by-catch). Estimates for such zero inflated data are difficult to obtain and the resolution of this problem requires in the first instance an enhanced observer programme for fleet metiers that pose the highest risk of by-catch of such species.

Project Tasks include the following:

The fishing vessels:
The first task is to identify the population of vessels to be sampled under an enhanced observer programme and the historic fish catch composition of these vessels to identify the metiers (vessel gear catch profiles). Previous work by BIM is a basis for this as is the Marine Institute’s logbook database. However, the level of activity by static net vessels under 10m (no logbook) and the location of activity of vessels under 12m (no VMS) will require profiling through a review of expert and local knowledge held in BIM and the industry. This was last completed in 2013 for the Natura fisheries risk assessment project and again the risk assessment report is a starting point. Metiers will include large mesh tangle nets targeting crayfish, offshore tangle netting for hake and monkfish, inshore gillnetting for cod, pollack and mixed demersal fish and trammel netting for bait in shallow water.
Sampling design:
Once the population of vessels in each metier is known an observer programme can be designed in order to provide unbiased estimates of by-catch and catch composition using methods for statistically sound sampling described by ICES. The observer programme can also be enhanced, for example to collect small tissue samples from by-caught species for laboratory analysis (i.e. skin and blubber biopsy) or to collect seabird carcasses.
Co-ordination of the observer programme:
A co-ordinating observer will be contracted to manage the enhanced observer programme. This will include the identification and allocation of trips to observers across the different metiers and logging of data & sample returns. All SOPs and data management procedures for this type of work are already established in the Marine Institute. In 2017, observers will be provided with small toolkits related to the collection and storage of tissue samples.
Genetic profiling of seal and cetacean by-catch:
One of the central questions in the risk assessment of the interaction between seals and set net fisheries in Ireland is the origin of the animals caught in set nets. This issue may also apply where some cetacean species are concerned. If the by-caught animals belong to comparatively small Irish breeding populations then the risk to the population from by-catch mortality can be much more significant than if they originate from much larger transnational populations for instance. In order to address such questions, tissue samples will be collected from all by-caught seals and cetaceans for genetic screening through separate projects. There is currently one such project in place with co-supervision by the National Parks & Wildlife Service (NPWS). Samples collected through the enhanced monitoring project will therefore be made available to NPWS via arrangement with the coordinating observer.
Screening of stranded carcasses of seals and small cetaceans:
Although the observer programme observes a sample of the fisheries by-catch in real time and can provide estimates of total by-catch for different metiers if there is adequate coverage, additional information can be obtained if the cause of mortality of stranded animals is determined. Under Ireland’s ongoing Cetacean Strandings Scheme a small proportion of the annual stranding records show scientifically established external signs of fisheries by-catch, including broken bones, obvious net marks, gear entanglement or fins cleanly removed. In parallel with its at-sea observation method, the enhanced monitoring programme provides an important opportunity to subsample stranded marine mammal carcasses for evidence of by-catch interaction, if this occurs. It is aimed to use both components of the study to inform one another, improve the assessment of relevant metiers of concern and to enhance scientific and management understanding of such interactions and their risk to protected species. This project will establish contracts for the targeted recovery and post-mortem examination of a sub-sample of small cetaceans stranded around the south and west coasts of Ireland through liaison with the coordinator of the Cetacean Strandings Scheme and through international best practice in post-mortem examination (PME).
Future sampling recommendations:
Results from the enhanced by-catch monitoring programme will be reviewed in relation to end-user requirements. Recommendations on sampling methodologies and sampling effort for bycatch monitoring will be drafted to inform future data collection programmes (link to Union Priority 3 – Data collection Scheme).

dkelly Wed, 06/27/2018 - 06:58

Partners:

Galway Mayo Institute of Technology

IWDG

DAFM Veterinary Laboratory

Duration:

The project has a 2 year duration and runs between 2017 and 2018.

Project Outputs:

Data on by-catch of seals, small cetaceans, seabirds and rare and endangered species by fishing metier in enhanced observer programme based on selected fishing metiers that pose a higher risk to biodiversity, these to include the static net fisheries (2017+) and pelagic fisheries (2018+)
Collection of scientific specimen of by-caught animals in the enhanced observer programme to be disseminated late 2018 for further scientific studies
Results of post mortem examinations of subset of stranded cetaceans from the national stranding’s scheme, stratified by geographic region and species presented in project reports
Collection of scientific specimen of stranded animals used for post mortem examination to be disseminated late 2018 for further scientific studies
Integration of results with data collection scheme and dissemination of data to end-user including DCHG and ICES
Report summarising the results from the enhanced bycatch programme
Inclusion of data in related data calls and advisory requests through ICES, European commission and others as required

Expected Benefit:

1. Improved scientific reporting in 2017+ on bycatch events of seals, small cetaceans, seabirds and rare and endangered species by fishing metier
2. Scientific reporting in 2017+ on the evidence, if any, for fisheries by-catch in the population of stranded cetaceans around the Irish coast
3. Training of Irish scientists in international best practice where PME of marine mammals is concerned
4. Contribution of key tissue samples of relevance in assessing population structure and ecology among the species by-caught in monitored metiers
5. Future estimates of the population level effects of by-catch on seals, small cetaceans and rare and endangered species

Further Information:

Contact Leonie O’Dowd at leonie.odowd@marine.ie

Project Cost - Projected:

€270,000

Project Tags:

Fisheries

Phase:

Project Status: