Streamer lines reduce bycatch
Research done by the University of Washington Sea Grant Program has shown that streamer lines, when properly deployed, can reduce seabird bycatch in longline operations at rates approaching 100 percent. The lines create a bird-free corridor in which baited longline hooks can sink, thus reducing seabird mortality.
Bird avoidance devices required by state and federal regulations In order to reduce bycatch of short-tailed albatross and other seabirds, federal and state regulations now require most longline vessels to use bird avoidance devices and techniques when longline fishing in state and federal waters off Alaska. Seabird avoidance requirements vary depending on your vessel length, area fished, type of gear used, and the superstructure of your vessel. For your specific requirements, see the NOAA Fisheries Service seabird website at www.fakr.noaa.gov/protectedresources/seabirds/guide.htm or contact your local NOAA Fisheries Enforcement office.
Partnership provides free streamer lines In 2000, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission (PSMFC), and NOAA Fisheries Service, working in conjunction with Washington Sea Grant, developed and distributed free streamer lines made of 3/8” blue steel poly to Alaska longliners. Over 4000 have been distributed and 1000 are still available. In addition, Mark Lundsten and the Alaska Sea Grant Marine Advisory Program designed and tested three additional streamer line models. These lines are made of 3/16” poly, a lighter material that performs better on smaller vessels and on those that set gear more slowly. These lighter lines are now also available to you for free through the same cooperative effort.
Please send the following type and quantity of streamer lines, free of charge, to the address below:
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Streamer line requests will be filled in the order that they are received until all of the available lines are distributed.
In signing this application form, I acknowledge the following: This bird deterrence equipment (Equipment) has been developed by the Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission (PSMFC) based on work supported by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Region 7 under Grant No. 701810G037. This equipment is being provided free of charge to the User. Rights for use are granted to the User subject to the following provisions: User acknowledges that there is no warranty for this Equipment. User acknowledges that neither PSMFC nor the Government attests to the safety or efficacy of this Equipment for the purpose of deterring birds from fishing operations. User acknowledges that neither PSMFC nor the Government assumes liability for the use of this Equipment. Neither PSMFC nor the Government shall be liable for loss or damage to User’s property that (1) occurs after User acceptance, and (2) results from any defect or deficiencies in Equipment. Nor will PSMFC or the Government reimburse the User for its liability to third persons with respect to loss resulting in any way from the use of this Equipment.
Signature (check box to acknowledge)
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