FISHING trials centred on addressing the issue of discards, involving five Grimsby-registered vessels, have produced positive results.
The throwing away of fish at sea – an issue highlighted by television cook Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall provoking widespread concern – has been virtually eliminated in the study.
Discards of sole, cod, plaice, megrim and angler fish were drastically reduced.
Operated on behalf of the Department For Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, the Marine Management Organisation report details how the practice could be an alternative method of managing fisheries, at a time when the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) is undergoing reform.
The trials encourage fishermen to fish more selectively and land all of what they catch.
Participating vessels were provided with additional quota that amounted to three quarters of the typical discards.
As a result the average discard rate
in the North Sea cod trawl dropped from 38 per cent to 0.2 per cent.
in the North Sea cod trawl dropped from 38 per cent to 0.2 per cent.
Vessels were not permitted to discard any of the species in the trials, including those below the minimum size.
Undersized fish catches were also low, suggesting more selective fishing.
James Cross, chief executive of the MMO, said: "This is really good news for all those interested in a long-term, sustainable future for our fishing industry.
"By working with fishermen to develop innovative solutions, we hope to reduce waste of our marine resources, while increasing healthy seas and fish stocks for the future."
Fisheries Minister Richard Benyon is keen for the trials to be rolled out to other fisheries in advance of CFP reform.
Full story courtesy of the Grimsby Telegraph.
Full story courtesy of the Grimsby Telegraph.
