CCAMLR

SC-CAMLR and its working groups have previously identified the lack of review of scientific research conducted within the CCAMLR Area as a key issue. At the 2007 CCAMLR meetings, there was agreement that Conservation Measure 24-01 should be reviewed to ensure that it is consistent with its intended purpose. Furthermore, SC-CAMLR agreed that if surveys are to be approved under this measure, they must provide a reasonable certainty that the state of knowledge will be advanced, and as such all notifications which propose taking toothfish should be required to forward research proposals to WG-FSA for review. Noting the recommendations of SC-CAMLR Australia proposes that revisions be made to Conservation Measure 24-01 to ensure that: • Scientific research proposals for vessels using long line gear and taking more than one (1) tonne of Dissostichus spp. would be subject to review by SC-CAMLR; • Scientific research proposals for vessels using trawl gear and pots and taking more than ten tonnes of Dissostichus spp. would be subject to review by SC-CAMLR; • Scientific research proposals for vessels using fishing gear other than specified and taking more than zero (0) tonnes of Dissostichus spp. would be subject to review by SC-CAMLR; • Scientific research proposals for vessels taking more than ten tonnes of Champsocephalus gunnari would be subject to review; • Summary results are made available to all Members via the Member-only part of the CCAMLR website, and full reports are submitted to SC-CAMLR, the results of which are considered by the Committee and its working groups; and • Conservation Measure 10-04 (Automated satellite-linked Vessel Monitoring Systems) applies to scientific research undertaken in the CCAMLR Area.

Because the requirements to participate in a New or Exploratory Fishery are substantially different, the United States proposes to combine the two measures so that needed information and data are gathered and submitted to CCAMLR in all years of the fishery. The proposed CM attempts to ensure a minimum change in existing text which has already been agreed by the Commission in the existing two measures. The requirements under the proposed merger are the same as now required by the Exploratory Fishery CM. The definition of an Exploratory Fishery has simply been expanded to include the first year of the fishery.

The United States wishes to submit for the consideration of other Commission Members a proposal to revise CCAMLR’s Scheme of International Scientific Observation. The proposal attempts to clarify requirements and responsibilities relevant to CCAMLR International Scientific Observers, Designating Members, and Receiving Members.

A proposal is put forward to amend CCAMLR’s Conservation Measure on bottom fishing in the Convention Area to remove ambiguity as to the geographic coverage of this conservation measure. The proposed amendment clarifies that all of Division 58.4.1 is included in the geographic area covered by this Conservation Measure.