Marine Conservation Services work areas
Seabirds surround trawl net
- The Conservation Services Programme.
- Work with the Ministry of Fisheries regarding fisheries management related to protected species.
- Scientific research relating to marine protected species.
- Projects investigating new fishing gear or operational methods that may reduce bycatch.
- Technical and policy input into the National Plan of Action - Seabirds and other government documents.
- International collaboration through participation in relevant multilateral initiatives such as the Agreement for the Conservation of Albatrosses and Petrels and the Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources.
Seabirds flock to nets
The Conservation Services Programme
The Conservation Services Programme focuses exclusively on elements of work defined as Conservation Services in the Fisheries Act (read more in CSP background information).
Projects fall into four areas:
Interaction projects
Examine the interactions between protected species and commercial fisheries. The largest current project is the Fisheries Observer Programme. Other projects include the retrieval, necropsy and identification of bycaught protected species.
Population studies
Examine the population dynamics of protected species where there is concern due to their propensity for bycatch. Current projects are examining the New Zealand sea lion, white-capped albatross and black petrel.
Blue dyed bait
Bycatch mitigation
Projects apply science or other information to develop or implement measures to reduce the adverse impact of commercial fishing on protected species. Recent projects have included the development of sea lion and seal exclusion devices and measures to manage fish waste in trawl fisheries.
Population management plans
Develop population management plans.
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