Photo source: NOAA Fisheries
In a groundbreaking step for sustainable fisheries management, NOAA Fisheries has developed and deployed a Multi-Function Trawl net capable of targeting multiple fish species at varying depths. This innovative tool integrates surveys for coastal pelagic species and Pacific hake, which were previously conducted using separate vessels and nets, saving both time and resources while improving data accuracy.
COLLABORATION AND DESIGN
The net, a product of collaboration between NOAA Fisheries, Ocean Gold Seafoods, and net manufacturer Swan Nets, represents a technological leap in fisheries science. It is designed to efficiently trawl species like sardines and anchovies near the surface at night, and Pacific hake in midwater during the day.
The net’s adaptability stems from several key features:
- Advanced Trawl Doors: Equipped with multiple attachment points, these doors allow seamless transitions between surface and midwater fishing, eliminating the need to switch gear.
- Optimized Mesh Design: Gradual changes in mesh size promote water flow, ensuring efficient capture of both target species and essential ecosystem organisms like lanternfish and squid.
- Sensors and Cameras: Real-time monitoring tools measure depth, temperature, and net performance, while underwater cameras capture images to study animal behavior and improve trawl accuracy.
SEA TRIALS AND PERFORMANCE
Trials began in late 2023 and continued through summer 2024 aboard NOAA’s research vessels, including the Bell M. Shimada and Reuben Lasker. These tests, conducted alongside industry experts, focused on evaluating the net’s efficiency and adaptability.
According to NOAA scientist Josiah Renfree, the Multi-Function Trawl net has delivered smooth operations and high-quality data. “The net’s performance during sardine and anchovy surveys has been impressive, and we’re refining our techniques to optimize results further,” Renfree said.
BENEFITS FOR SCIENCE AND INDUSTRY
The Multi-Function Trawl net supports NOAA’s mission to maintain long-term records of fish species abundance and ocean conditions. These datasets are crucial for understanding ecological changes, including those driven by climate change.
By integrating surveys, NOAA Fisheries can more effectively allocate resources and reduce costs. The innovation also enhances crew safety by eliminating the need to handle multiple trawl configurations.
Annie Yau, director of NOAA’s Fisheries Resources Division, highlighted the collaborative approach that led to these advancements: “Partnering with industry experts has enabled us to upgrade our survey tools with the latest technologies, bringing us closer to climate-ready fisheries management.”
IMPACT ON MANAGEMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY
This year’s trials compared the new net’s performance against traditional equipment used in Pacific hake surveys, with Canadian partners aboard the Sir John Franklin. These paired operations provided valuable insights into how the Multi-Function Trawl net affects biomass estimates.
“The continued improvements benefit not just scientists but also fishing communities and managers who rely on accurate data for sustainable practices,” said Greg Shaughnessy, Chief Operations Officer at Ocean Gold Seafoods, who played a key role in designing and testing the net.
The initiative was funded through NOAA Fisheries’ Inflation Reduction Act efforts, aimed at supporting climate-adaptive fisheries management.
LOOKING AHEAD
With plans to fully integrate the Multi-Function Trawl net into surveys by 2025, NOAA Fisheries is paving the way for smarter, more sustainable fishing practices. This innovation marks a significant milestone in balancing ecological stewardship with economic growth, ensuring the health of marine ecosystems for generations to come.
Source: NOAA Fisheries
