Research output per year
Research output per year
Project: LVVN project
Detailed conclusions
The methodology and technology of a UWTV-survey on Nephrops are well developed and documented within ICES. When setting-up a new or extended survey, this information can and should be used.
A UWTV-survey is preferred over a survey using a headline unit on commercial fishing gears. It will supply a fisheries independent abundance estimate, and has developed into a standard method within ICES.
Given the relative large distances that have to be covered and the remoteness of the two survey areas it is recommended to use a vessel that can sail at fairly high speeds and forms a stable working platform. In addition the vessel should be able to sail at very low speed with precision.
Using RV “Tridens” with participation of foreign expertise and training of IMARES staff is the cheapest option, compared to using another institute’s equipment, or hiring a foreign research vessel with accompanying foreign expertise, providing that vessels costs and winch, blocks and cables are covered by the vessel owner (Ministry of Economic Affairs).
Initially the costs are relatively high, but in later years when staff has been trained and equipment developed these costs will be substantially lower.
The Nephrops survey may also be used to retrieve additional data, and can possibly be extended to other purposes. A UWTV sledge can in principle also be used to support other tasks, e.g. viewing the sea bed or taking samples from the sea bed in other surveys. Option 1 also avoids the risk of having to invest in replacement or repair of equipment owned by others in case of loss or damage.
When investing in own equipment and expertise dependency of others will be avoided. Only this way IMARES will be able to fully participate as a full partner in ICES WGNEPS.
The final choice will depend on available funding for a Nephrops survey. If Option 1 can be financed then a detailed working plan can be defined.
We recommend to keep and maintain the UWTV sledge and instrumentation within IMARES, and the winch, cable and cable blocks within the vessel owner. In addition investment in a list of spare parts should be brought to avoid that the work cannot be continued in case of malfunctioning, damage or even loss of equipment.
When building up equipment and instrumentation it should and can be considered to use the latest and highest standard in technology.
Status | Finished |
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Effective start/end date | 1/01/13 → 31/12/13 |
Research output: Book/Report › Report › Professional