Conservation and Management Measure for Exploratory Potting Fishery in the SPRFMO Convention Area (CMM 14b-2021). Country/Territory Document type Regulation Date 2021 Source FAO, FAOLEX Subject Fisheries, Wild species & ecosystems Keyword Marine fisheries Fishery management and conservation Crustaceans Data collection/reporting Fishing gear/fishing method High seas Monitoring Exploration Total allowable catch Fishing authorization Aquatic animals Authorization/permit Ecosystem preservation Marine area Protection of species Marine mammals Abstract This Measure of the Commission of the South Pacific Regional Fisheries Management Organisation (SPRFMO) provides for exploratory bottom pot fishing for lobster and crab in the Convention Area for the purpose of obtaining scientific data to: allow the evaluation of the long term fishery potential for a lobster and crab fishery in the Convention Area; to evaluate the possible impacts on the target stocks, associated or dependent species, and marine ecosystems; to evaluate the effectiveness of mitigation measures; and to ensure that the bottom pot exploratory fishery is developed on a precautionary and gradual basis according to the best available science. This measure applies to exploratory fishing for lobster and crab as described in a specified Fisheries Operation Plan. Fishing shall be carried out by a designated vessel of the Cook Island. The vessel authorised to conduct the exploratory fishery will report on fishing weekly to the Cook Islands Ministry of Marine Resources The CMM imposes certain conditions and restrictions on fishing with respect to, among other things, total allowable catch, seasons, monitoring and data collection, protection of marine mammals, seabirds, turtles, and other species of concern. Full text English Website www.sprfmo.int