Resolution GFCM/41/2017/4 on a permanent working group on vulnerable marine ecosystems. Country/Territory Document type Regulation Date 2017 Source FAO, FAOLEX Subject Fisheries, Wild species & ecosystems Keyword Fishery management and conservation Data collection/reporting Fishing vessel Fishing gear/fishing method International organization Marine fisheries Ecosystem preservation Marine area Management/conservation Abstract This Resolution lays down rules for the establishment of a working group on vulnerable marine ecosystems (WGVME) to develop initial measures related to the protection of vulnerable marine ecosystems in the GFCM area of application, in accordance with the FAO mandate. The tasks of the WGVME are: (I) collect information and map the distribution of vulnerable marine ecosystems, (II) advise on new proposals for closures and on the enforcement of existing measures, (III) assess technical information provided by fishers and other institutions, and (IV) advise the Scientific Advisory Committee on Fisheries on any vulnerable marine ecosystem-related matter and coordinate the elaboration of management tools. The WGVME should also contribute to identify the technical elements concerning management measures to be applied for fishing vessels above 15 m length overall operating with bottom contact fishing gear targeting the species Aristaeomorpha foliacea, Aristeus antennatus, or Plesionika martia; and fishing vessels above 15 m length overall operating with bottom contact gear at depths deeper than 300 m. Full text English Website www.fao.org