The Marine Management Organisation (MMO) is seeking applicants for two schemes in 2019. These schemes are: North Sea Fully Documented Fisheries (FDF) and North East Nephrops Net Selectivity Scheme. Fully Documented Fishery (FDF) schemes have been run by the MMO since 2011. These schemes have demonstrated the effectiveness of Remote Electronic Monitoring (REM) in reducing discards and encouraging more selective fishing behaviour. In addition, REM has proven to be a useful tool for gathering scientific data. Due to there being a preference for a UK wide approach, the MMO will not be offering Inter-Species Flexibility (ISF) as part of any English scheme this year. Further details of these schemes can be found here
North Sea Fully Documented Fisheries FDF scheme.
In return for participation in this scheme, vessels will be able to access additional quota for North Sea cod, saithe, haddock, whiting, turbot and brill. In addition, scientific quota may be available. The scheme will run from July 1st 2019 and will end on 31st December 2019. The aim of the scheme in 2019 is to demonstrate a Fully Documented Fishery and compliance with the Landing Obligation.
North East Nephrop Net Selectivity Scheme.
This is a new scheme for 2019. The scheme will be open to English vessels from the sector, non-sector and under 10m fleets, fishing in the North East Nephrop fishery. Additional quota from the reserve pool for Nephrops stocks will be made available for participant vessels. There may also be scientific quota available. The scheme will run from July 1st 2019 and will end on 31st December 2019. The aim of this scheme is to investigate the potential to reduce discard levels within the NE Nephrop fishery and encourage the use of highly selective nets to reduce the amounts of juvenile fish caught as a bycatch within the Nephrop fishery.
