"New Fishing Technology Will Dramatically Reduce Seabird Bycatch in Ecuador's Hake Fishing Industry"
via the American Bird Conservancy
(Washington, D.C., April 19, 2012) American Bird Conservancy (ABC), the leading U.S. bird conservation organization, and Ecuadorian Partner Equilibrio Azul have developed a new technology that will dramatically reduce seabird bycatch in the Ecuadorian hake fleet. The hake fishery and associated bycatch is one of the most significant threats to the Critically Endangered Waved Albatross…
Working with our partners, Australian seabird bycatch expert Nigel Brothers, and the fishermen, the team developed the “Medina” setting system, tailored specifically for the Ecuadorian hake fishery. Instead of tossing the hooks into the sea one-by-one, the Medina system allows hooks to slide off of small metal bars, using the speed of the boat to pull the hooks…
The system is embraced by local fishermen because it is inexpensive, saves bait, is easy to use, and is manufactured locally. Involving the fishermen directly in the development of the setting system proved a significant impetus in getting them to use it. Currently, the Medina system is being used in at-sea trials, and efforts are now underway with Ecuador’s Ministry of the Environment and the National Fisheries Institute to conclude the formal evaluation…
