NOAA Technical Memorandum NMFS-AFSC-152

Using Digital Video Monitoring 

Systems in Fisheries: Application for 

Monitoring Compliance of Seabird 

Avoidance Devices and Seabird Mortality 

in Pacific Halibut Longline Fisheries

by

R. T. Ames, G. H. Williams, and S. M. Fitzgerald

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

National Marine Fisheries Service

Alaska Fisheries Science Center

April 2005
NOAA Technical Memorandum NMFS 

The National Marine Fisheries Service's Alaska Fisheries Science Center 

uses the NOAA Technical Memorandum series to issue informal scientific and 

technical publications when complete formal review and editorial processing 

are not appropriate or feasible. Documents within this series reflect sound 

professional work and may be referenced in the formal scientific and technical 

literature. 

The NMFS-AFSC Technical Memorandum series of the Alaska Fisheries 

Science Center continues the NMFS-F/NWC series established in 1970 by the 

Northwest Fisheries Center. The NMFS-NWFSC series is currently used by 

the Northwest Fisheries Science Center. 

This document should be cited as follows: 

Ames, R. T., G. H. Williams, and S. M. Fitzgerald. 2005. Using digital 

video monitoring systems in fisheries: Application for monitoring 

compliance of seabird avoidance devices and seabird mortality in 

Pacific halibut longline fisheries. U.S. Dep. Commer., NOAA Tech. 

Memo. NMFS-AFSC-152, 93 p. 

Reference in this document to trade names does not imply endorsement by 

the National Marine Fisheries Service, NOAA. 
NOAA Technical Memorandum NMFS-AFSC-152

Using Digital Video Monitoring 

Systems in Fisheries: Application for 

Monitoring Compliance of Seabird 

Avoidance Devices and Seabird Mortality 

in Pacific Halibut Longline Fisheries

by

 R. T. Ames1, G. H. Williams1, and S. M. Fitzgerald2

1 International Pacific Halibut Commission

P. O. Box 95009 

Seattle WA 98145-2009

2 Alaska Fisheries Science Center

7600 Sand Point Way N.E.

Seattle, WA 98115

www.afsc.noaa.gov

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

Carlos M. Gutierrez, Secretary

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

Vice Admiral Conrad C. Lautenbacher, Jr., U.S. Navy (ret.), Under Secretary and Administrator

National Marine Fisheries Service

William T. Hogarth, Assistant Administrator for Fisheries 

April 2005
This document is available to the public through: 

National Technical Information Service 

U.S. Department of Commerce 

5285 Port Royal Road 

Springfield, VA 22161 

www.ntis.gov 
Notice to Users of this Document 

This document is being made available in .PDF format for the convenience of users; however, the 

accuracy and correctness of the document can only be certified as was presented in the original hard 

copy format. 

PREFACE 

Research presented in this report was conducted by the International Pacific Halibut 

Commission (IPHC) for the National Marine Fisheries Service under the terms of Order 

#AB133F-02-SE-1015. This project examined the feasibility of using electronic monitoring 

systems (EMS) in the Pacific halibut longline fleet operating off the state of Alaska. The project 

was conducted on two of the IPHC’s chartered stock assessment survey vessels fishing in Alaska 

during 2002. The objectives of the project were to 1) examine the ability of an electronic 

monitoring system to provide images that would allow an analyst to monitor seabird avoidance 

devices for regulatory compliance; 2) determine the feasibility of using video images for 

detecting and identifying incidentally caught seabirds; and 3) discuss options for the future use of 

electronic monitoring as a fishery management tool. 

The IPHC was established in 1923 by a Convention between the governments of Canada 

and the United States of America. IPHC’s mandate is research on and management of the stocks 

of Pacific halibut (Hippoglossus stenolepis) within the Convention waters of both nations. The 

IPHC conducts research on many aspects of the resource and fishery, including issues which 

affect the conduct of the halibut fishery. The potential bycatch of seabirds is an important issue 

facing the commercial halibut fishery and the IPHC is interested in assisting the industry in 

reducing the potential for seabird bycatch. Recently, regulations have been enacted to minimize 

bycatch based on the use of streamer lines. This project evaluates means to ensure compliance 

with those regulations by vessels, through the use of an electronic monitoring system. 

International Pacific Halibut Commission 

P.O. Box 95009 

Seattle, WA 98145-2009 

iii 
 

Contents Page 

Executive Summary .................................................................................................................... vii 


Glossary of Terms ........................................................................................................................ ix


Glossary of Abbreviations........................................................................................................... xi


Introduction....................................................................................................................................1 

Materials and Methods..................................................................................................................3 

Description of an Electronic Monitoring System (EMS)..................................................................................... 3 


Computer control box ....................................................................................................................................... 4 


Closed circuit TV cameras ................................................................................................................................ 4

Global positioning system ................................................................................................................................. 5 


Hydraulic pressure sensor ................................................................................................................................ 5

Project design.......................................................................................................................................................... 5 


Vessel selection........................................................................................................................................................ 7 


Third sea-sampler monitoring duties.................................................................................................................... 7 


Electronic Monitoring System Installations ......................................................................................................... 8 


F/V Heritage....................................................................................................................................................... 8 


Setting CCTV camera configurations................................................................................................................................ 8 


Hauling CCTV camera configurations .............................................................................................................................. 8 


F/V Pacific Sun................................................................................................................................................... 9 


Setting CCTV camera configurations................................................................................................................................ 9 


Hauling CCTV camera configurations .............................................................................................................................. 9 


Installation of EMS on project vessels ............................................................................................................. 9 


Streamer lines ......................................................................................................................................................... 9 


Streamer line mounting locations..................................................................................................................... 9 


Streamer line enhancements ........................................................................................................................... 10 


Streamer line performance assessment.......................................................................................................... 10 


Performance based on at-sea observations ...................................................................................................................... 10 


Performance based on video observations....................................................................................................................... 11 


Seabird Identification Experiments .................................................................................................................... 11 


Analysis of video images by analyst ............................................................................................................... 12 


Seabird seminar at NMFS/AFSC ................................................................................................................... 12 


Detection and identification of seabirds from hauling video ....................................................................... 13 


Results ...........................................................................................................................................14 

Sets and hauls monitored ..................................................................................................................................... 14 


Assessment of Setting Video Imagery ................................................................................................................. 14 


Sea sampler and video streamer line performance comparisons .................................................................... 15 


Assessment of Hauling Video Imagery ............................................................................................................... 16 


Seabird Identification Experiment...................................................................................................................... 16 


Analysis of video images.................................................................................................................................. 16 


Seabird seminar at NMFS/AFSC ................................................................................................................... 17 


Detection and identification of seabirds from hauling video events............................................................ 17 


Discussion......................................................................................................................................18 

Assessment of Setting Video Imagery ................................................................................................................. 18 


Setting CCTV camera(s) assessment.............................................................................................................. 18 


Setting CCTV camera(s) configurations and lenses .......................................................................................... 18 


Streamer line detection and position................................................................................................................... 19 


Streamer line performance .................................................................................................................................. 19 


Applications of setting CCTV camera(s) ............................................................................................................ 21 


Assessment of Hauling Video Imagery ............................................................................................................... 22 


v 
Hauling CCTV camera assessment ................................................................................................................ 23 


Seabird Identification Experiment...................................................................................................................... 23 


Analysis of video images.................................................................................................................................. 23 


Seabird seminar at NMSF/AFSC ................................................................................................................... 24 


Detection and identification of seabirds from hauling video events............................................................ 24 


Potential Costs Associated with Fishery Monitoring................................................................25 

Results of Cost Comparison................................................................................................................................ 26 


Conclusions...................................................................................................................................28 

Recommendations ........................................................................................................................29 

Option One: EMS monitoring of streamer lines ............................................................................................... 29


Option Two: EMS monitoring of streamer lines and seabird incidental catch.............................................. 29


Acknowledgements ......................................................................................................................31 

Citations ........................................................................................................................................33

List of Tables ................................................................................................................................35 

List of Figures...............................................................................................................................37 


Appendix 1. Method Of Securing Seabirds To The Longline Gear ......................................87 

Appendix 2. Basic Statistics of Fishing Effort and Catch ......................................................89 

vi 
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY


The incidental take of seabirds, including rare takes of the endangered short-tailed albatross 

(Phoebastria albatrus), is known to occur in the Alaskan longline fishing fleet. Current fishery 

regulations do not require observer coverage in the Pacific halibut fishery unless a vessel is 

greater than 60 feet length overall (LOA) and participating in other federally managed fisheries. 

The lack of at-sea observations has resulted in little information on the amount of seabird 

bycatch and on the compliance with seabird avoidance measures within the halibut fishery. The 

National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) contracted with the International Pacific Halibut 

Commission (IPHC) on a project to examine the feasibility of electronic monitoring systems 

(EMS) in the Pacific halibut longline fleet operating off the state of Alaska. The project was 

conducted on two of the IPHC’s chartered stock assessment survey vessels fishing in Alaska 

during 2002. The objectives of the project were to 1) examine the ability of an electronic 

monitoring system to provide images that would allow an analyst to monitor seabird avoidance 

devices for regulatory compliance; 2) determine the feasibility of using video images for 

detecting and identifying incidentally caught seabirds; and 3) discuss options for the future use of 

electronic monitoring as a fishery management tool. 

To determine if an electronic monitoring system (EMS) could be used to assist in 

compliance determination, a system was placed on the vessels to record images of halibut gear 

being set and the performance of seabird avoidance devices, or streamer lines, during the setting. 

Vessel and video observations were compared on 106 setting events. The EMS video 

observations proved to be successful in detecting streamer line deployment and relative position 

on 100% of the daytime sets when two cameras were used. The results of the streamer line 

performance evaluations suggest that accurate performance recognition was positively related to 

the increase in image recording speed and the video analysts’ ability to distinguish measured 

interval markings that were attached to the streamer lines. 

The ability of a video analyst to recognize and identify retrieved seabirds was examined by 

intentionally setting previously caught frozen seabirds on the fishing gear. No birds were caught 

incidentally during this study. Using 63 seabird specimens, the results showed a positive 

relationship between correct seabird species identification and EMS recording frame rates. At a 

fast recording speed 91% of the deliberately set seabirds were correctly identified as seabirds and 

64% were identified accurately according to species. Nine of 12 albatross (Diomedea spp.) 

specimens were correctly identified to species; 1 was determined to be an unidentified albatross, 

and 2 were incorrectly identified. During a second examination 14 members of the NMFS’s 

North Pacific Groundfish Observer Program staff examined video images of six retrieved 

seabirds. The results indicated that correct seabird identification is related both to the analyst’s 

knowledge of distinguishing species characteristics, and to the size of the seabird. A third 

independent evaluation, where an analyst had no advance knowledge of birds being retrieved on 

the gear, showed that an analyst was capable of detecting 96% of the seabirds deliberately set 

with the gear, and that 79% of the specimens were correctly identified to species. 

The potential costs of two monitoring programs were estimated at two levels of coverage 

for the halibut fishery off Alaska. The cost of complete monitoring of all setting and haul backs 

was estimated at $8.5 million for an on-board observer program; the cost of an EMS was 

vii 
estimated at $2.7 million. Coverage levels of 100% for vessels greater than 125 feet LOA, 

30% vessels for 60-124 feet LOA, and no coverage of vessels less than 60 feet LOA was 

estimated at $0.41 million for an on-board observer program, whereas the cost of an EMS was 

estimated at $0.22 million. Electronic monitoring costs could be reduced if fewer hauls were 

sampled on each vessel than currently realized. 

In conclusion, this study suggests that an EMS monitoring program would produce 

accurate data and enable compliance evaluations for seabird avoidance devices. In addition, an 

EMS program would be able to detect a high proportion of incidentally caught seabirds. 

However, additional work is needed on seabird image identification and verification methods 

and testing the effects of soak time on the physical characteristics of seabirds. 

viii 
Glossary of Terms 

Bycatch: Animals or species taken incidentally in a commercial fishery; bycatch species may be 

of lesser value than the target species and are often discarded. Some bycatch species are of 

commercial value and are retained for sale (Froese and Pauly 2003). 

Computer control box: The electronic monitoring computer control system. The control box 

contains the operating system, data storage components and power supplies for the video 

cameras and peripheral vessel sensors. 

Electronic monitoring system: An integrated assortment of available digital video, sensory 

receivers, and computer components with a proprietary software operating system. 

Gurdy: A hydraulic winch used to retrieve longline fishing gear. 

Hauling event: The retrieval of one set of longline fishing gear. 

Hydraulic pressure sensor: An electronic transducer used by the computer control box to 

monitor pressure variations at the gurdy. 

Interval recording rate: The recording of video images in equally spaced periods of time. 

Longline: A line of considerable length, bearing secondary lines (gangions) with numerous 

baited hooks (Froese and Pauly 2003). During this study, the longline rested at or near the 

bottom of the ocean and was standardized with 500 hooks per set. 

Optically dense: An object of sufficient size, shape, or color to be visible on the EMS recorded 

images. 

Real time recording rate: The continuous recording of video images in actual time. 

Recording frame rate: The recording speed in frames per second. 

Seabird: Frozen seabird specimens that were deliberately set with the fishing gear to determine 

the feasibility of using video images for detecting and identifying incidentally caught seabirds. 

Sea-samplers: International Pacific Halibut Commission field biologists that are responsible for 

collecting and recording data during survey operations. 

Setting event: The deployment of one set or unit of longline fishing gear. 

Streamer line: A line with streamers used to prevent seabird from accessing the area where the 

baited hooks are sinking. The devices are composed of a single 90-m line, 5-m spaced 

streamers, and a drogue at the terminal end. The streamer lines are deployed and towed during 

setting events. 

ix 
Streamer line deployment: The deployment and the towing of a streamer line behind the vessel 

for the duration of the setting event. 

Streamer line performance: The distance between the vessel stern and the first intersection of 

the line with the seawater. 

Streamer line position: The location of the streamer line with respect to the main groundline for 

the duration of setting event. 

Third sea-samplers: International Pacific Halibut Commission field biologists that were 

assigned to ensure the EMS project objectives were met and to supervise and maintain the 

electronic monitoring system equipment. 

Video recording compression ratio: The mathematical process of reducing the amount of data 

in a given file. The computer compresses the video images in order to maximize the amount of 

video on a hard disk. The more the computer compresses the video in a file, the more video the 

storage disk can hold. The compression process reduces the image quality and is non-reversible. 

x 
Glossary of Abbreviations 

AMR: Archipelago Marine Research Ltd. 

AFSC: Alaska Fisheries Science Center 

BAD: Bird avoidance device 

CCTV: Closed circuit television 

EMS: Electronic monitoring system 

FPS: Frame rate per second 

FRFR: Fast recording frame rate 

GPS: Global positioning system 

IPHC: International Pacific Halibut Commission 

LOA: Length overall 

NMFS: National Marine Fisheries Service 

NPGOP: North Pacific Groundfish Observer Program 

NPFMC: North Pacific Fishery Management Council 

PSMFC: Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission 

SIIT: Seabird Image Identification Techniques 

SRFR: Slow recording frame rate 

STAL: Short-tailed albatross (Phoebastria albatrus) 

xi 
 

INTRODUCTION 


The Pacific halibut (Hippoglossus stenolepis) longline fishery operates throughout Alaskan 

waters. No observer monitoring or other at-sea monitoring of vessels under 60 feet length 

overall (LOA) is presently occurring, and only limited observer coverage occurs on vessels 

greater than 60 feet LOA participating in other federally managed fisheries. In the observed 

longline fleet (targeting halibut and other species), the incidental take of seabirds has been 

documented, including rare takes of the endangered short-tailed albatross (Phoebastria albatrus) 

(U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service 2003). As a result of the risk to short-tailed albatross, a 

biological opinion (U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1998) was issued for the halibut fishery 

under Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act that requires the U.S. National Marine Fisheries 

Service (NMFS) to take certain reasonable and prudent measures to protect the short-tailed 

albatross. One requirement is: 

...the NMFS shall prepare and implement a plan to investigate all options for monitoring the 

Pacific halibut fishery in waters off Alaska. It will then institute changes to the fishery 

appropriate to the results of this investigation. 

In response, and at the request of the longline fishing industry, the North Pacific Fishery 

Management Council (NPFMC) recommended that regulations be instituted to protect seabirds 

from halibut and groundfish longline fishing operations. The industry took a lead role in 

initiating this effort. These measures were first developed in 1997 and were revised by NMFS in 

2004 (NMFS 2004). For the halibut fishery, the regulations require vessels longer than 55 feet 

LOA fishing off Alaska to deploy paired streamer lines as a seabird deterrent. NMFS regulations 

stipulate: 

.... Streamer lines (paired) must be deployed in such a way that streamers are in the air for a 

minimum of 131.2 ft (40 m) aft of the stern for vessels under 100 ft (30.5 m), and 196.9 ft 

(60 m) aft of the stern for vessels 100 ft (30.5 m) or over. 

1.	 For vessels deploying gear from the stern, the paired streamer lines must be deployed from 

the stern, one on each side of the main groundline. 

2.	 For vessels deploying gear from the side, the paired streamer lines must be deployed from 

the stern, one over the main groundline and the other on either side of the main 

groundline. 

The intended function of the streamer line design is to deter seabirds from the baited hooks 

by creating a visual and physical barrier on either side of the gear (Melvin et al. 2001). With 

proper deployment, the paired streamer lines were shown to be effective at reducing 88% to 

100% of seabird bycatch during longline operations, and more specifically, the streamer lines 

should eliminate albatross bycatch (Melvin et al. 2001). 

However, vessels fishing halibut in Alaska have no requirements for observer coverage 

unless they are longer than 60 feet LOA and are participating in other federally managed 

fisheries. Thus, there is little information collected at-sea on halibut vessel operations and 

practices with regard to the amount of seabird bycatch and to the compliance with seabird 
avoidance regulations. In a previous report, Geernaert et al. (2001) discussed several options for 

monitoring potential catch of short-tailed albatross (STAL) in the Pacific halibut fishery, and 

concluded that video technology provided a possible solution for such monitoring. Potential 

costs of expanding observer coverage to the current halibut fleet may be prohibitive. 

The introduction of regulations requiring the use of seabird avoidance devices by the 

halibut longline fleet prompted the consideration of ways in which compliance could be 

monitored. NMFS required a monitoring method in order to determine deployment and 

performance, but needed information on appropriate methods. Accordingly, NMFS selected the 

International Pacific Halibut Commission (IPHC) to examine the feasibility of electronic 

monitoring in the Pacific halibut longline fleet operating off Alaska. The objectives of the 

project were to 

1.	 Examine the ability of an electronic monitoring system to provide images that would 

allow an analyst to monitor seabird avoidance devices for regulatory compliance; 

2.	 Determine the feasibility of using video images for detecting and identifying 

incidentally caught seabirds; and 

3.	 Discuss options for the future use of electronic monitoring as a fisheries management 

tool. 

2

MATERIALS AND METHODS

 The first project objective was examined by using two of the charter vessels selected for 

the International Pacific Halibut Commission’s summer research cruises. The vessels operated 

during June, July, and August of 2002 and deployed paired streamer lines during all setting 

operations. Because these seabird mitigation measures were proven to be quite effective (Melvin 

et al. 2001), we used seabird carcasses obtained from other fisheries and placed them on the 

longlines during gear deployment so that we could test the effectiveness of the EMS. The 

various components of this work, which include electronic monitoring systems, project design, 

vessel selection, sea-sampler monitoring duties, EMS system installation, streamer lines, and 

seabird identification experiments are described below. 

In order to achieve the three project goals, the study consisted of four key components. The 

first component was to determine the optimal configuration for each camera prior to actual 

data/image collection. This was an iterative process for each camera, camera location, and 

vessel, involving the camera lens focal length, recording speeds, and data compression ratios. 

Once those configurations were determined, we proceeded with the second component -- 

collection of video during gear setting. This would help us to meet the projects first objective to 

evaluate EMS for monitoring mitigation measures. At the same time, we implemented the third 

component, which looked at whether EMS could provide adequate images for seabird 

identification and counts during gear retrieval (the second project objective). While not an initial 

objective of the study, the presence of the cameras on the stern of the vessels provided an 

opportunity to further examine the usefulness of EMS for collection of relevant seabird data, the 

fourth component of this study. 

Description of an Electronic Monitoring System (EMS) 

The EMS integrates several widely available digital video and computer components with a 

proprietary software operating system to create a powerful data collection tool (Fig. 1). The 

system can operate on either DC or AC voltage to autonomously log video and vessel sensor data 

during the fishing trip. Four closed circuit TV (CCTV) cameras, a global positioning system 

(GPS), and a hydraulic pressure sensor are the primary sensors. The system automatically 

restarts and resumes program functions following unexpected power interruptions. The video 

storage capacity of the monitoring system depends on the rate of data capture, and on the size 

and number of storage devices. The system components are described below. 

3

Computer Control Box 

The computer control box contains the operating system, the data storage components, and 

the power controllers for the video cameras and the peripheral vessel sensors. The computer 

control box is a durable aluminum container, approximately 55 cm x 33 cm x 12 cm, or the size 

of a business briefcase. It is water resistant, but is not adequately weatherproof for on-deck 

deployment. The box requires about one-half of a cubic foot of dry and ventilated interior space 

for storage. This space must also be reasonably accessible to the setup and service technicians. 

On larger fishing vessels, the monitoring system is usually powered by the onboard 120-volt AC 

supply, although it can also be run on a 12-volt DC power source. 

The two primary components in the computer control box are the video- and data-logging 

computers. The data-logging computer captures and records the output from the GPS and the 

pressure sensor. The data logger is designed to run continuously for the duration of the fishing 

trip in order to provide a digital time series record of the vessel activities. Post-processed sensor 

information is used to detect the specific activities on the vessel, such as setting or hauling 

fishing gear. The chronology of fishing activities that is derived from the time series is used to 

identify time-matched video segments for review. 

The video computer digitizes the incoming analog camera signal and stores the video 

imagery on removable computer hard disks. The video computer can be set up to collect 

imagery covering a wide range of time lapse frame rates and digital compression ratios. Video 

frame rates and compression settings are selected to deliver the highest quality image with the 

lowest storage space requirement. On this project, the third sea-samplers (see “Third Seasampler Monitoring Duties” below) controlled the video computer and the imagery collection by 

using input keyboards. These keyboard controls allowed the third sea-samplers to start and stop 

the cameras manually during the setting and hauling events, thereby limiting video data 

collection exclusively to periods of activity during these events. Alternatively, software on the 

EMS data-logging computer can be set to activate the video system automatically whenever 

specific fishing activities, such as a hydraulic pressure increase or drum rotation at a winch, are 

recognized in the sensor data. 

For this study, the computer control box was also equipped with a computer display 

monitor that presented the user with a status screen showing the GPS and the pressure data, the 

video control settings, as well as any comments entered at the keyboard (Fig. 2). The screen also 

displayed the software input/output for the data handling utilities provided to the sea-sampler. 

Closed Circuit TV Cameras 

The EMS units used in this study can have up to four analog CCTV cameras connected to 

the control box. The four-camera arrangement was chosen for this project in order to provide 

image redundancy at the haul location, and to provide the maximum viewing area of the aft 

hemisphere during setting. The paired cameras also allowed the selection of different view 

aspects and fields of view at each workstation. An armored dome camera was chosen for 

installation on these vessels, and it has proven to be reliable in extreme environmental conditions 

on long-term deployments. The camera is lightweight, compact, and is easily attached to the 

4

vessel’s standing structure with a universal stainless steel mount using band straps. The camera 

electronics inside the sealed case are attached to a rotary gimbal mount that allows for a quick 

directional adjustment of the fixed lens camera. Selecting from a set of lenses ranging from 

fisheye to telephoto, the sea-sampler can adjust the field of view and the image resolution 

optimally for each application. A TV monitor was included in the EMS to allow real-time 

viewing of each camera image and permit video playbacks of set and haul imagery (Fig. 2). 

Global Positioning System 

An independent GPS receiver was installed and connected to the EMS unit computer 

control box on each boat. The GPS receiver delivers a digital data stream to the data-logging 

computer that provides an accurate time base as well as a record of vessel position, speed, and 

heading. The GPS information is updated and stored on the data logger every 15 seconds and is 

also captioned at the bottom of the digital video image to provide a “burned in” geo-reference for 

each video frame. 

Hydraulic Pressure Sensor 

An electronic transducer was installed on the input side of the hydraulic longline-hauling 

winch (i.e., gurdy) in order to monitor hydraulic pressure. When the gurdy is activated for gear 

retrieval, the corresponding pressure increase is recorded in the data set. When displayed 

graphically, the pressure variance at the gurdy provides a repeatable digital signature of the gear 

recovery activities. The chronological pattern of gurdy activity can be used to verify the absence 

or presence of time-matched video segments documenting the catch processing activities at the 

haul station. 

Project Design 

The first component of the study was to determine the EMS’s adaptability and the optimal 

recording configurations. The EMS cameras on both vessels were placed opportunistically and 

strategically to maximize the quality of the recorded images for monitoring seabird avoidance 

devices during setting, for seabird identification during gear deployment, and for species 

identification during gear retrieval. The optimal combination of compression ratio and video 

recording frame rates was assessed to determine the highest quality image with the lowest 

computer storage space. The at-sea assessment was conducted on: 

• recording image compression ratios, 

• lens focal length sizes, and 

• image recording speeds (frame rates per second). 

The recording compression ratios, lens focal length size selection, and frame rates per 

second (fps) were assessed qualitatively at sea by the sea-samplers by a review of collected 

images and can be found in Tables 1 through 4. Digital image recording compression is a 

mathematical process of reducing the amount of data in a given file. The algorithm process 

decreases the file size, which is proportional to an increase in the total amount of video recording 

5

time. An increase in image compression is proportional to a decrease in image quality and is 

non-reversible. An increase in lens focal length size is proportional to an increase in image 

detail and in clarity at a distance, but is also proportional to a decrease in the horizontal and 

vertical fields of view. An increase in recording image frame rate is proportional to an increase 

in the amount of image data in a given file, and to a decrease in the total amount of video 

recording time. All technical terms and abbreviations are defined in separate glossaries. 

The second component of the study was to evaluate the ability of video monitoring to 

determine regulatory compliance of seabird avoidance devices. To address this issue, the setting 

cameras’ imagery evaluations were divided into three categories: 

•	 The ability of the EMS units to provide images that would allow an analyst to 

continuously monitor the streamer line deployment. Here, deployment refers to the 

use of a streamer line during the duration of the setting event. 

•	 The ability of the EMS units to provide images that would allow an analyst to monitor 

the streamer line position with respect to the main groundline for the duration of the 

setting event. 

•	 The ability of the EMS units to provide images that would allow an analyst to monitor 

the streamer line performance for the duration of the setting event. Here, streamer 

line performance is defined as the distance between the vessel stern and the first 

intersection of the line with the seawater. 

The third component of the study focused on the recorded hauling event images. The 

purpose of the evaluation was to determine if the analysts could use the images to detect and 

identify the species of the frozen seabirds1

 that were intentionally attached to the longline. This 

component of the assessment was divided into three separate areas of evaluation: 

•	 The first image evaluations were to count and identify the species of the 63 frozen 

seabirds intentionally placed on the longline gear during setting. 

•	 The second area of evaluation consisted of a seminar conducted at the NMFS’s Alaska 

Fisheries Science Center, where participants evaluated selected seabird images. 

•	 The third video evaluation was conducted by a private consulting company to 

determine if a video analyzer could 1) detect the deliberately set seabirds from the 

hauling video events, and 2) identify the seabirds to species or to category. 

The fourth component was the ability of the setting camera(s) to capture images of seabirds 

for species identification and abundance determinations during setting events. 

1

 Frozen seabird specimens were provided by National Marine Fisheries Service, Alaska Fisheries Science Center, 

North Pacific Groundfish Observer Program, 7600 Sand Point Way NE, Seattle, WA, 98115. 

6

Vessel Selection 

Electronic monitoring systems were installed on two IPHC-chartered longline halibut 

vessels: the F/V Heritage and the F/V Pacific Sun, fishing in IPHC Areas 4A, 4B and 4D (Fig. 3) 

during summer 2002. The IPHC assessment survey and its vessels offered several advantages 

for this project, which included: 

•	 The IPHC vessels provided a controlled research platform that allowed for at-sea EMS 

technical and experimental adjustments by trained IPHC sea-samplers. These 

adjustments allowed greater freedom to change EMS computer configurations and 

camera mounting locations to optimize EMS performance. 

•	 The vessels provided room for additional IPHC monitoring personnel needed to 

calibrate the EMS units. 

•	 The vessels were part of the IPHC assessment survey that covered a large area within 

Alaskan waters. The large area of operations tested the EMS units over a range of 

different weather, ocean, and tidal conditions. 

•	 The IPHC operations also tested the ability of the EMS to capture images of many 

seabird species and to record their interactions with the vessels during gear 

deployment. 

•	 The 3-month survey provided multiple fishing trips and allowed for an extended 

deployment of the EMS units. 

•	 The two vessels were of different size, shape, and deck layout, which allowed for 

additional information on the adaptability of the EMS units. The vessels were typical 

of the larger vessels involved in the halibut fishery. Images of the vessels are provided 

in Figures 4 and 5. 

Third Sea-sampler Monitoring Duties 

Sea-samplers are IPHC field biologists, responsible for collecting and recording data 

during survey operations. IPHC usually assigns two sea-samplers to each survey vessel. For the 

EMS project, a third sea-sampler was assigned to each vessel in order to ensure the EMS project 

objectives were met. The third sea-sampler’s duties included: 

•	 Supervising and maintaining the electronic monitoring system and related equipment. 

•	 Triggering the EMS unit to record setting and hauling events. 

•	 Observing and counting seabird interactions with the gear during the setting events. 

•	 Attaching the frozen seabirds to the gear before setting. 

•	 Monitoring the streamer lines and recording their performances during setting events. 

•	 Recording the hook status, including identifying and recording all invertebrates and 

vertebrates caught during gear retrieval. 

7

Electronic Monitoring System Installations 

F/V Heritage 

The F/V Heritage is 20 m in length, 7 m in width, and has a typical longline vessel layout 

with a forward deckhouse (Fig. 6). 

Setting CCTV camera configurations -- Three different setting camera configurations 

(Table 1) were evaluated for monitoring the setting operations. These configurations were 

assessed on the basis of the cameras’ ability to perform two different functions simultaneously: 

their ability to produce images that would allow an analyst 1) to detect the regulatory compliance 

of seabird avoidance devices, and 2) to determine seabird species and the numbers present. In all 

configurations, the cameras were mounted at the stern 3.55 m above the water line. 

•	 The first setting camera configuration was used on the initial 59 sets. 

•	 The second setting camera configuration was used on the next 73 sets. 

•	 The third setting camera configuration was used on the final 11 sets. 

The first and second configuration had the two setting cameras mounted side-by-side on the 

bait-shed aft railing, above and to the starboard side of the gear chute (Fig. 7). These two 

cameras were located near the center of the vessel and were designed to work in tandem by 

splitting the aft hemisphere into two overlapping images. Each camera was angled in such a way 

as to maximize the area covered by the image recording instruments. 

The third camera configuration employed one setting camera, using an 8 mm focal length 

lens, to record all setting event tasks as described above. 

Hauling CCTV camera configurations -- Two cameras were installed to monitor the haul 

back workstation: a deck camera, which monitored the gear while it came aboard, and an 

outboard camera aimed at the roller and the area immediately below (Fig. 8). The deck camera 

was fitted with a 12 mm focal length lens and positioned in two different locations. Table 2 

describes the specific camera configurations. 

•	 During the first 38 hauled sets, the deck camera was positioned aft of the roller on the 

upper and forward part of the bait shed railing. 

•	 For the remaining 106 hauled sets, the deck camera was repositioned on the vessel 

house railing at a height of 2.5 m above the deck. This camera's field of view included 

the interior of the retrieval chute and the inside edge of the roller from a distance of 

4.3 m. 

The roller camera was fitted with 12 mm focal length lens, and it captured images of the 

incoming gear as it exited the water and traveled to the roller. This camera was mounted exactly 

2.91 m from the roller on an aluminum pole that extended 1.65 m from the starboard side of the 

vessel, at a nominal height of 2.4 m above the water line (Fig. 9). 

8

F/V Pacific Sun 

The F/V Pacific Sun was the larger of the two vessels, with a length of 37 m, a width of 

12 m, and a large open work deck area (Fig. 10). It was designed originally to participate in the 

crab fishery but was recently refitted for longline operations. 

Setting CCTV camera configurations -- The F/V Pacific Sun employed two setting cameramounting configurations which were nearly identical to the first and second camera 

configurations used on the F/V Heritage (see above). Camera configurations are shown in 

Table 3. 

• The first setting camera configuration was used on the initial 23 setting events. 

• The second setting camera configuration was used on the remaining 22 events. 

Hauling CCTV camera configurations -- As with the F/V Heritage, two cameras were 

installed on the F/V Pacific Sun to monitor the haul back workstation. The deck camera was 

mounted atop a 2.4 m vertical wooden pole that was secured to the vessel’s crab pot launcher and 

it viewed the inside of the retrieval chute. The roller camera was mounted to the crab block arm, 

which was swung out starboard during haul back. This camera viewed the line as it emerged 

from the water and came over the roller (Fig. 11). Both of these cameras were fitted with 8 mm 

focal length lenses because they were positioned closer to the hauling workstation than their 

counterparts mounted on the F/V Heritage (Table 4). 

Installation of EMS on Project Vessels 

A typical EMS installation is a relatively simple procedure. One, or possibly two, 

technicians can install the EMS electronics, position the cameras, and test the equipment to 

ensure successful operation in one day. 

Both vessel installations performed for this study took longer due to additional project 

requirements. Archipelago Marine Research (AMR, Victoria, B.C.) was contracted by IPHC to 

provide the EMSs, including installation and technical support. Installations took considerably 

longer because the AMR technician had to also train the IPHC sea-samplers on how to service, 

maintain, adjust, and operate the equipment. Additionally, the sea-samplers needed to learn how 

to process and review video and sensory data. The F/V Heritage installation took over 

2.5 working days and the F/V Pacific Sun installation took just under 2 working days. 

Streamer Lines 

Streamer Line Mounting Locations 

As seabird deterrents, the F/V Heritage used two standard streamer lines provided by the 

Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission (PSMFC) (Figs. 12 and 13). The streamer line 

specifications can be found in Melvin et al. (2001). The streamer lines were attached to 

9

aluminum poles, each located in a corner of the stern. The poles extended 3.6 m above the baitshed roof, and approximately 6.6 m above the water line. 

The F/V Pacific Sun also used PSMFC streamer lines (Fig. 13). These streamer lines were 

mounted from the starboard side pot hauler and from the port side deck crane. The design was 

unique and not representative of the mounting locations and configurations used on most 

traditional Alaskan halibut longline vessels. The streamer lines were towed behind the vessel at 

a distance of 70 m on the starboard side and 85 m on the port side. 

Streamer Line Enhancements 

On the F/V Heritage, three enhancements were tested to evaluate the optical recording 

ability of the EMS setting cameras, and to determine if additional reference marking attachments 

to the streamer lines were necessary or beneficial. These experiments were as follows: 

•	 For the first 48 sets, the vessel’s standard streamer lines were used. 

•	 During the next 53 sets, the streamer lines were customized with bright-colored 

surveying tape attached at different distance intervals: pink at 40 m, yellow at 45 m, 

red at 50 m, and pink again at 55 m. 

•	 For the final 43 sets, a second modification of the standard streamer line design 

involved replacing the bright survey tape with optically dense items (i.e., rubber 

gloves) at 40, 50, and 60 m distances. 

Three similar design experiments were evaluated on the F/V Pacific Sun: 

•	 The original streamer line design was used on the first 23 sets. 

•	 On the next seven sets, bright survey tape was attached at distances of 45, 50, and 

55 m. 

•	 During the final 15 sets, the survey tape was replaced with optically dense items (i.e., 

rubber gloves). 

Streamer Line Performance Assessment 

Two separate streamer line performance evaluations were conducted for each setting event. 

Streamer line performance is defined as the distance between the vessel stern and the location 

where the streamer line first intersects the seawater. An at-sea performance evaluation was 

conducted by a sea-sampler and a video performance evaluation was conducted on land by a 

video analyst. 

Performance based on at-sea observations -- For all setting events, the sea-sampler 

estimated the streamer line performance from the stern of the vessel at a predetermined time. 

Different predetermined time strategies were employed during the setting events, but the 

performance evaluation procedure was the same for each set. For the performance evaluations 

on both vessels, the sea-sampler estimated the minimum and maximum performance for each 

setting event visually, and then recorded the average performance to the nearest 5 m interval. 

10

The procedures for evaluating performance by the sea-sampler differed somewhat between 

the two vessels. On the F/V Heritage, the sea-sampler would signal the setting cameras at the 

beginning and at the end of a predetermined performance evaluation period. These 

predetermined time intervals provided a reference that would allow a relatively fixed temporal 

comparison of the vessel and the video performance observations. Streamer line performances 

were evaluated and recorded once for each of 64 sets, and twice for each of the remaining 

80 sets. For the first 64 sets, the performance value was estimated during the deployment of the 

final skate of gear. That value provided the estimated performance distance for the entire setting 

event. For the final 80 sets, two visual performance values were recorded during each of the 

predetermined 2-minute windows: one at the beginning, and one at the end of the setting event. 

The two recorded performance values (as describe above) were again averaged to the nearest 

meter, and that value constituted the final setting performance number. 

On the F/V Pacific Sun, the performance evaluations were conducted at or near the 

beginning of the setting events, and were only carried out once per set for the duration of the 

charter. 

Performance based on video observations -- Analyses were performed on 84 setting events 

from the F/V Heritage that featured the second and the third setting camera configurations. The 

analyst’s performance evaluations used the reference markers (i.e., the streamers, the flagging 

tape, and the rubber gloves) attached to the streamer lines to assist in estimating the exact 

location at which the streamer line first intersected the water. These evaluations were conducted 

using the same protocols employed by the vessel’s sea-sampler. 

There was no signal to designate the performance evaluation time for the F/V Pacific Sun, 

so a time was arbitrarily selected close to the beginning of the setting event in order to evaluate 

the performance. The video analyst watched the lines’ minimum and maximum performances 

and recorded the average performance values in the same manner as the sea-sampler. 

Seabird Identification Experiments 

To address the second project objective, the EMS collected images of seabirds retrieved on 

the longline gear to observe the appearance and general body behavior as the seabird comes out 

of the water. Previously caught seabird specimens (specimens) were provided by the NMFS 

North Pacific Groundfish Observer Program (NPGOP) from Laysan albatross, black-footed 

albatross, and shearwaters collected by high sea driftnet observers in 1990-1991. EMS video 

images were recorded during gear retrieval. Procedures followed during this experiment were as 

follows: 

•	 The longline sets for the seabird specimen identification component were selected 

opportunistically. 

•	 One to four specimens were attached to the gear before gear deployment and placed 

randomly throughout the set. 

•	 The specimens were securely attached to a hook and gangion by either 22.7 kg monofilament fishing line and zip straps, or by duct tape and electrical tape. 

11

•	 The seabird species, hook number, skate number, and station number were recorded 

before the gear was deployed. 

•	 The fisher working the roller during haul back was instructed to bring the specimen 

onboard and not to interfere with its retrieval. 

This experiment was not designed to estimate seabird drop off rates, and steps were taken 

to guarantee that the specimens were retrieved during haul back. Five specimens were lost 

during this experiment due to the forceful manner in which the longline gear was deployed. The 

intentional setting of frozen seabirds from the vessel stern using longline fishing gear is 

inconsistent with the way in which seabirds are caught incidentally in the wild. Therefore, the 

data collected for this study should not be used for estimating underwater seabird drop off rates. 

Details on the seabird attachment procedures are found in Appendix 1. 

Analysis of Video Images by Analyst 

The images of the retrieved seabird specimens were evaluated to determine whether or 

not the EMS technology was sensitive enough and the images clear enough to allow an analyst to 

recognize and differentiate the seabirds by species. The seabirds were identified by the analyst 

using Seabird Image Identification Techniques, a system that incorporates seabird body size, 

plumage color, bill size and bill color, as well as other features that distinguish seabirds by 

species. The steps in this technique are sequential (Table 5 and Fig. 14). The criteria used 

included the physical characteristics associated with the common north Pacific seabirds 

(National Geographic Society 1987, Armstrong 1995). The records of the retrieved specimens, 

as they were identified by each of the sea-samplers, were compared for accuracy. The seabird 

identification comparison proceeded as follows: 

1.	 All retrieved seabirds were compared with the sea-samplers’ identification records. 

2.	 The seabirds captured by EMS cameras during ”slow recording frame rates” were 

grouped together and were compared with the sea-samplers’ identification records. 

Hauling events featuring less than 2 fps by the roller camera and less than 1 fps by the 

deck camera were considered slow recording frame rates (SRFR). 

3.	 Those seabirds captured by EMS cameras during ”fast recording frame rates” were 

grouped together and were compared with the sea-samplers’ identification records. 

Hauling events featuring greater than 2.5 fps by the roller camera and greater than 

1.5 fps by the deck camera were considered fast recording frame rates (FRFR). 

Seabird Seminar at AFSC 

A seminar was conducted at the Alaska Fisheries Science Center (AFSC) to provide an 

independent analysis of the seabird specimen images captured by EMS cameras. The seminar 

was held at the AFSC to take advantage of established knowledge of seabirds possessed by many 

AFSC staff. The seminar tested the participants’ ability to identify the species of individual 

seabirds solely through viewing the images. Eight of the 14 participants were NPGOP staff and 

had a wide range of seabird identification experience. 

12

The seminar was divided into two parts. The first section of the seminar provided 

attendees with an introduction to common seabirds found in the north Pacific, and with 

appropriate seabird image identification techniques. This was intended to ensure everyone had 

some minimal amount of seabird identification information. The second part of the seminar gave 

the attendees an opportunity to examine six video clips of seabird specimens, randomly selected 

from the total number of retrieved shearwater species, black-footed albatross, and Laysan 

albatross. 

One seabird image from each of the three seabird categories and by vessel was randomly 

chosen. The F/V Heritage random selection process involved 23 shearwater species, three 

black-footed albatross, and four Laysan albatross. The F/V Pacific Sun random selection process 

involved 28 shearwaters, one black-footed albatross, and four Laysan albatross. The seminar 

incorporated two untutored examinations and a final tutored examination. The examinations 

went as follows: 

1.	 During the first examination, a 5-10 second video clip of a specimen during hook-andline gear retrieval was shown. The 14 participants were instructed to identify the 

seabird in the clip according to group, species, etc. 

2.	 For the second examination, the group was shown two still images from the 

5-10 second video clip. The members of the audience were once again instructed to 

identify what they saw. 

3.	 The final examination consisted of identifying the seabirds in the same two still 

images, but this time the attendees were provided with some tutoring. This tutoring 

involved the presenter pointing out some of the seabirds' key features, but without 

revealing the seabird’s identity. The presenter then instructed the audience to use the 

Seabird Image Identification Techniques to help in the identification of the particular 

seabird according to species or category. 

Detection and Identification of Seabirds from Hauling Video 

The seabird specimen detection and identification analysis was conducted by AMR and 

intended to provide an independent and nonbiased analysis of seabird images. The objective was 

to determine if a video analyst could: 1) detect the occurrence of specimens from the video 

images of the hauling events, and 2) determine if seabirds could be identified to species and/or 

species category. 

The video provided to AMR featured camera images from the FRFR group and contained 

footage of 20 predetermined hauling events from each vessel. The video contained hauls with 

and without seabird specimens. All hooks were counted, and all animals on the hooks were 

enumerated and identified according to species. AMR’s seabird detection and identification 

results were then compared to the information recorded by the sea-samplers. 

13

RESULTS 

Sets and Hauls Monitored 

The F/V Heritage started survey fishing on 4 June 2002, and finished on 24 August 2002. 

The F/V Pacific Sun started fishing on 20 June 2002, and finished on 10 July 2002. On the F/V 

Heritage, the EMS camera monitored 143 setting events and 144 hauling events. The F/V 

Pacific Sun completed 45 stations, with the EMS monitoring 45 setting events and 45 hauling 

events. Several minor problems occurred, including the camera lens becoming obstructed by 

water and debris, a leak into a camera, fuzzy images, untriggered recording, and system interface 

error possibly due to a cold start of the system. Three of the 10 problem types were likely due to 

incorrect or improper actions taken by the sea-sampler running the system. A listing of the 

technical errors and problems encountered during the study is provided in Table 6. 

Assessment of Setting Video Imagery 

Evaluations of the video recording functions were conducted at sea. The at-sea qualitative 

assessment was conducted by the third sea-sampler to determine the optimal combination of 

compression ratio and video recording frame rates to produce the highest quality images with the 

lowest computer storage space. The 10 × recording compression ratio was preferred over the 

15 × and 20 × ratios because it allowed for a slightly higher quality image resolution, and for 

finer detail in recording small, distant objects. The small increase in resolution was significant 

when evaluating streamer line performances and identifying seabirds. The setting cameras 

needed to be set at a relatively frequent recording speed in order to capture clear images of the 

seabirds, which was a desired, although not primary, aspect of the study. For this reason, no 

attempt was made to assess the operation of the camera frame rates at slower than 0.5 frames per 

second (i.e., one frame for every 2 seconds). Slower frame rates (i.e., one frame per minute) 

could have led to the collection of higher resolution video images that may be useful for seabird 

identification, but also may have compromised the ability to adequately monitor the streamer line 

performance. During the early trial setting events, the sea-sampler experimented with different 

arrangements of EMS equipment, the computer-recording configurations, and lens selections. 

These trials provided significant information on “what works best”, but provided insufficient 

information on the combined objectives of the study to merit detailed video analysis. Therefore, 

the trial 59 sets from the F/V Heritage and 23 sets from the F/V Pacific Sun were excluded from 

the study. 

Video analysis was performed on all of the setting events that were completed using the 

optimal camera mounting locations, lenses, and computer recording configurations. Of the 

143 sets on F/V Heritage, 84 were analyzed; 73 of these sets used the second setting camera 

configuration, while 11 used the third camera configuration. On the F/V Pacific Sun, 22 of the 

45 sets were analyzed. Evaluations were made of the streamer line deployments, their relative 

positioning, their performance, and the percentage of time the streamer lines were in the video 

field of view during the duration of the setting events (Tables 7 and 8). 

14

None of the cameras were able to detect streamer lines during three pre-dawn sets. Two 

setting events were completed before sunrise by the F/V Heritage (0740 h and 0745 h), while the 

F/V Pacific Sun had one setting event conducted before sunrise (0657 h). 

Almost all (102 of 103) of the daylight setting events on both the F/V Heritage and the F/V 

Pacific Sun that were recorded using the second and third stern camera configurations provided 

streamer line deployment detection and position. Of the 92 sets that were monitored during 

daylight using two setting cameras, the success rate for line deployment detection and line 

position was 100%. 

Sea Sampler and Video Streamer Line Performance Comparisons 

We compared the video observations of streamer line performance with the sea-samplers’ 

observations. On the F/V Heritage, the performance values for all the sets were combined, and 

the mean values were calculated. The starboard side mean value as observed by the sea-sampler 

was 54 m, while the port side mean value was 57 m. The video analyst recorded the starboard 

and port side mean values as 52 m and 55 m, respectively. A comparison between the mean 

values acquired by the sea-samplers and those acquired from the video cameras revealed a 2 m 

higher average performance on the part of the sea-samplers. The standard deviation of the seasamplers observations and the video observations from the mean values are provided in Figure 

15. 

A heteroscedastic t-test was performed that compared the F/V Heritage’s sea-sampler 

observations of streamer line performance values with the video analyst’s observations on the 

starboard side of the vessel (p = 1.3 × 10-4; n = 81), and the port side (p = 3.6 × 10-4; n = 81). The 

results indicated that there was a significant difference between performance values. 

When the sea-sampler and video performance values were graphed together, they revealed 

a similar pattern. Although the values for each set were not identical, they frequently fluctuated 

in the same direction, either in an increased or decreased performance. In addition, a linear trend 

line mapping the sea-sampler and the video observations on streamer line performance showed a 

positive association between the values (Figs. 16 - 19). 

The performance values from the F/V Pacific Sun for all the sets were combined and the 

mean values were calculated. The vessel’s sea sampler starboard mean value was 46 m, and port 

mean value was 55 m, while the video’s starboard mean value was 48 m, and the port mean 

value was 61 m-- differences of 2 m on the starboard side and a 6 m difference on the port side. 

The standard deviations of the vessel and video observations are provided in Figure 20. 

The F/V Pacific Sun results were consistent with those of the F/V Heritage. When the two 

methods of measuring streamer line performance were compared for the starboard side, a similar 

fluctuation pattern was evident, but this pattern was not apparent in the port side observations. A 

linear trend line also revealed a positive association between the two starboard performance 

observations. On the port side, however, there were significant differences in the performance 

15

values, and there was no evidence of a performance fluctuation pattern, indicating a data 

collection error (Figs. 21 - 24). 

A heteroscedastic t-test was conducted comparing the F/V Pacific Sun’s sea-sampler 

observations of streamer line performance values with the video analyst’s observations on the 

starboard side of the vessel (p = 0.55; n = 22) and on the port side (p = 2.67 × 10-8; n = 22). The 

comparison revealed that there was a significant difference between the respective performance 

values. 

Assessment of Hauling Video Imagery 

During seabird specimen retrieval, four primary recording frame rates were evaluated. The 

frame rates were divided into two groups: 1) SRFR and 2) FRFR. The results indicate that the 

initial compression ratio and lens selection were adequate, but that the roller camera needed to 

have frame rates greater than 2.5 fps, and the deck camera frame rates greater than 1.5 in order to 

be effective in identifying incidentally caught seabirds. 

Seabird Identification Experiment 

On the F/V Heritage, a total of 34 seabirds were placed on the gear to obtain haul back 

images: 27 shearwaters, 3 black-footed albatross, and 4 Laysan albatross. Of these seabirds, 

three shearwaters were lost during setting, one was retrieved with just one wing attached (the 

entire body was lost during the setting), and one Laysan albatross was recovered with only bones 

and a bill intact, the result of predation by isopods and amphipods during gear soak. On the F/V 

Pacific Sun, 34 seabirds were placed on the gear: 28 shearwaters, 2 black-footed albatross, and 4 

Laysan albatross. Of these seabirds, one black-footed albatross was lost during setting, and 

another dropped off the line at the roller during gear retrieval. The remaining seabirds provided 

sufficient images for the analysis of identification during hauling. 

Analysis of video images 

An analysis of the 63 seabird specimen images captured by the hauling cameras during 

gear retrieval indicated that an analyst was able to identify 83%, or 52 of the 63 specimens as 

seabirds. The investigation also concluded that 60%, or 31 of the 52 specimens, were correctly 

identified to species (Table 9). A close examination of the images revealed a positive association 

between the image recording speeds and a correct identification of seabirds by species. This 

association is shown in Figure 25. 

In those hauling events featuring the SRFR (n = 18), the analyst was able to identify the 

specimen as a seabird 61% of the time (Fig. 26). Of the 18 shearwaters, 2 were identified as 

shearwaters, 2 were identified as belonging to the northern fulmar/shearwater category, 7 were 

identified as belonging to the small black seabird category, and the final 7 were deemed to be 

unknown objects (Table 10). In the hauling events featuring the FRFR (n = 45) the video analyst 

was able to identify the specimen as a seabird 91% of the time (Fig. 27). Of the 33 shearwaters, 

16

20 were identified as shearwaters, 1 was identified as belonging to the northern 

fulmar/shearwater category, 9 were identified as belonging to the small black seabird category, 

and the final 3 were deemed to be unknown objects (Table 11). Moreover, of the 12 albatross, 9 

were identified to species, 1 was identified as within the Laysan/short-tailed albatross category, 1 

drop-off was recorded as an unidentified seabird, and the final specimen was deemed to be an 

unknown object (Table 11). A comparison of the video analyst’s seabird identification records 

according their SRFR and FRFR groupings are presented in Figure 28. The inability to obtain a 

correct identification was generally due to a lack of sufficient detail in the specimen’s image. 

Seabird Seminar at AFSC 

Twenty-five percent of the seminar participants in the first untutored examination of the 

video images (video footage) correctly identified the six seabird specimens. During the second 

untutored examination which used still images, 46% of the participants correctly identified the 

specimens, and on the third tutored examination, 69% of the 14 participants correctly identified 

the specimens (Fig. 29). 

Detection and Identification of Seabirds from Hauling Video Events 

The results of the 27 hauling events reviewed by an AMR analyst revealed that 24 out of 

the 25 seabirds (96%) were recognized (Fig. 30). The results also showed that the analyst was 

able to correctly identify 79% of the seabirds as 15 shearwaters and 4 Laysan albatross. The 

analyst identified 17% to a close seabird species category; three shearwaters were classified as 

northern fulmars, and one black-footed albatross was labeled as an unidentified albatross. The 

final seabird, a drop-off, was identified incorrectly as a northern fulmar, when it was actually a 

black-footed albatross (Fig. 31). 

17

DISCUSSION 

Research conducted on the F/V Heritage and F/V Pacific Sun provided valuable 

information on the efficacy of employing the EMS technology. At its present stage of 

development, the EMS technology has a number of possible fishery applications. This study 

provides a foundation for the ongoing development of this technology and suggests some 

directions for its future application in fisheries management. 

Assessment of Setting Video Imagery 

The EMS computer recording configurations were important components for evaluating the 

video monitoring capabilities. The results indicate that during daylight both the second and third 

camera configurations could detect the streamer line deployment and position effectively, and 

that the cameras would need only a relatively slow interval recording frame rate to complete this 

task successfully. However, accurate performance determinations are directly related to the 

image recording speed, and thus a faster interval recording speed and more image storage space 

would be required. The EMS computer can be configured to record in periodic, relatively 

infrequent intervals and with high video compression ratios (requiring less video storage space) 

and still provide an analyst with adequate information on the deployment and position of both 

streamer lines. However, if objectives called for accurate information on streamer line 

performance at all times, faster frame rates and lower recording compressions may be necessary. 

In some applications, continuous real-time recording may not be needed to meet management 

objectives. 

Setting CCTV Camera(s) Assessment 

The study was designed to meet several objectives based on the capability of the camera 

system to perform a variety of specific functions. However, video review determined that 

insufficient image information on seabird identification and abundance off the stern of the vessel 

was provided by the cameras to support an analysis. Thus, the comprehensive approach did not 

work well, and it is apparent that the cameras would be utilized most effectively if they were 

limited to one specific function. Therefore, the primary focus of this component of the report is 

to assess the effectiveness of the EMS technology with respect to monitoring the regulatory 

compliance of streamer lines during setting. 

Setting CCTV Camera(s) Configurations and Lenses 

The comparison of the two video camera configurations used on F/V Heritage revealed no 

significant differences in the detection and performance of streamer lines, and only a slight 

difference in the amount of time the lines were out of the camera or cameras’ field or fields of 

vision. These assessments indicate that both the second and third camera configurations in the 

study were effective in determining streamer line deployment, position, and performance. 

However, only 11 sets were conducted using the single camera or third camera configurations, 

18

and the majority of these sets were carried out during calm weather conditions. In comparing the 

video configurations, it was determined that the use of an 8 mm lens on the third camera 

configuration was as precise as the 12 mm lens in detecting the line performance. Moreover, the 

8 mm lens provided a larger horizontal and vertical field of vision of the aft hemisphere than did 

the 12 mm lens. Therefore, the use of 8 mm lenses in the two-camera configurations would 

provide a significant advantage over the 12 mm lenses. The greatest advantage would be in 

situations of high vessel motion, or when the streamer lines migrate to the outside edge of the 

vessel’s aft hemisphere, and out of the 12 mm lens’ field of vision. 

The study also compared the video imagery from the two-camera configurations with the 

imagery from a single camera configuration, and the results indicate that both configurations are 

effective. However, the use of one camera did not provide as much horizontal viewing coverage 

as did the use of two, and did not provide a back-up component. For example, the housing of 

one of the setting cameras leaked during the study, leaving the camera unusable. This leak, 

however, was not a manufacturing defect, but was attributed to either an improper setup during 

installation or a poor seal. Regardless, the use of a second camera provides the following 

advantages: 

•	 The use of two cameras provides a larger area of vision behind the vessel, and will 

capture the deployment of the streamer lines in all daylight situations. 

•	 The two cameras provide a viewing overlap of the streamer lines; thus, if one of the 

cameras is disabled, or if the lens is covered in dirt, bait, and/or ice, the second camera 

will still provide valuable data for one side. 

•	 A second camera is a relatively inexpensive addition to the system and can be installed 

easily. 

Streamer Line Detection and Position 

The use of the EMS units for streamer line detection and position would require relatively 

few changes to their present design. The second and third setting camera configurations on both 

vessels provided clear images, affording streamer line detection and relative position on 99% of 

the daytime setting events, with relatively few problems. On the sets that were monitored using 

two setting cameras working together, the success rate was 100% for streamer line deployment 

detection and position. This high success rate endorses the effectiveness of the EMS equipment 

for this purpose. 

Streamer Line Performance 

To determine the effectiveness of the EMS technology in measuring streamer line 

performance, the sea-samplers’ performance values from the vessel observations were compared 

with the video observations. Interestingly, the compared observations have complicated the 

streamer line performance issue. The performance on any vessel is extremely variable with large 

fluctuations between high and low performances during the setting events. These fluctuations 

19

are related directly to the weather conditions, streamer line mounting location and height, the 

vessel’s mass, size, shape and stability, and finally the drag of the streamer lines’ drogues. All of 

these factors influence the streamer line performance, making precise performance 

determinations difficult, regardless if a person is present on the vessel, or is viewing video 

footage. This problem became clear when the performance values from the sea-sampler 

observations and the EMS cameras were analyzed (via t-test) and found to be significantly 

different. Although the values were not parallel, the two groups appeared to follow a similar 

pattern showing either an increased or decreased performance (Figs. 16, 18, and 21). The values 

also reveal positive associations, which are represented by the trend lines in Figures 17, 19, and 

22. The exception would be the port side on the F/V Pacific Sun, where the streamer line was 

attached to the deck crane. The problem was that the F/V Pacific Sun did not consistently tow 

the streamer lines from the same height and the same distance from the stern during the setting 

events, and the two observational techniques did not analyze exactly the same time periods 

during the sets. More importantly, we believe that the sea-sampler’s observational data were 

collected incorrectly or inaccurately on the port side of the vessel. Nevertheless, the patterns 

from the F/V Heritage and starboard side of the F/V Pacific Sun indicate that the two 

observational methods are relatively comparable, and that the differences arise in the setting 

event’s average performance, which may be a simple function of differences in the observational 

periods. 

The question remains: “Does EMS provide image quality sufficient to monitor deployment 

and performance comparable to an at-sea observer?” The answer is “Yes” but each of the 

observational techniques has its advantages and disadvantages. The at-sea observation has an 

advantage over the video observation because the sea-sampler can see exactly where the line 

intersects the water. The video analyst, on the other hand, can stop the video (replay if 

necessary) and analyze each individual image, and in this way account for the line fluctuation 

elements (the highs and lows) in deciphering the true line performance. In any case, the EMS 

study clearly demonstrates that both observational methods are effective in determining whether 

or not the line meets the regulatory required performance, provided that there were adequate 

distance markings attached to the streamer lines. 

We conclude that, if measures were taken to create streamer lines that were optically dense, 

the video analyst would have superior ability to monitor and record the performance values 

accurately. Alternately, if measures were taken to require that existing commercially used 

streamer lines be fitted with optically dense distance markings at specified interval(s) (i.e., at the 

40 m interval) then a video analyst would be able to determine if the performance requirements 

were maintained during the setting event. The adoption of this recommendation would, in itself, 

allow regulators to address the streamer line requirements from a pass/fail perspective. 

At present, streamer lines are composed of materials whose diameter makes them difficult, 

under certain conditions, to distinguish on the recorded video. Especially problematical for the 

video analyst is determining the exact locations where the line first intersects the water. If 

streamer lines were more optically dense or were composed of reflective material, this problem 

could be greatly reduced without affecting streamer line performance. If EMS units were to be 

implemented commercially, consideration should be given to requiring the use of streamer lines 

which would facilitate easier identification by a video analyst. 

20

Applications of Setting CCTV Camera(s) 

In summary, results indicate that there are three effective applications of the setting 

cameras. The first is the detection of streamer line deployment, position, and performance in 

real-time recording speed. Secondly, the cameras record the deployment, relative position, and 

the relative line performance in predetermined recording intervals2

. Finally, the cameras provide 

detection of the deployment and relative position of the streamer lines behind the vessel. 

The study has provided encouraging results in the application of EMS to the detection of 

streamer line deployment, position, and performance. When considering the application of these 

systems within the commercial halibut fishery, several issues need to be addressed. These issues 

include a determination of the primary objective of the camera(s), the most effective camera 

configuration(s) and recording functions, and the role, if any, of vessel personnel in EMS 

maintenance. 

1.	 If the primary objective of the EMS units is to accurately detect and continuously 

monitor the vessel’s streamer line positions and performances during setting events, 

the following elements must be addressed. 

1.1	 Streamer lines on vessels with EMS technology would need to be standardized for 

best results. The streamer lines should have multiple markings on the lines at 

uniform intervals which would indicate the regulatory performance minimum. 

These reference markings should be optically dense (i.e., of sufficient size and 

color) so that they would be detectable on the EMS images. An option would be 

a single marker at the distance of the performance standard. However, this may 

be less effective, as a vessel could shorten the line such that the marker would not 

be at the required distance but closer to the vessel. This would lessen the 

effectiveness of the streamer line but the change in configuration would not be 

detectable from the EMS images. Using a multiple-marker scheme would make it 

more likely that at least one marker would remain within the required 

performance standard distance, depending on the numbers of markers and their 

location on the line, if such deception is attempted. 

1.2	 The image recording frame rate would need to be sufficient to allow an analyst to 

detect the line performance fluctuations (high and low values) in order to 

determine if the streamer lines continuously meet the regulatory requirements. 

1.3	 The image recording software would need to be set at 10 × compression in order 

to achieve maximum resolution to the video images so an analyst could make 

accurate performance determinations. 

1.4	 An automatic triggering system would need to be developed to turn the setting 

camera(s) on and off during setting events, so as to maximize EMS deployment 

and hard disk storage space if recording were not continuous. Alternately, an 

2

 The terms “relative position” and “performance” refer to time-lapse recording speed, which is not a real-time 

recording rate (e.g., the camera(s) record images at 15-second intervals). 

21

increased storage capacity for the EMS unit would be required for continuous 

recording. This system would need to be installed on all of the traditional 

longline vessels that use tub or skate-bottom gear, and which have no moving 

parts that could be used to signal the computer that a setting event has started or 

ended. This type of a system is possible, but it would, in most conceivable 

applications, require the support and cooperation of the vessel crewmembers. 

2.	 A simpler and more effective application of the current EMS technology would be to 

focus first on monitoring the deployment and relative positions of the streamer lines, 

and then to assess the relative performance of the streamer lines. The difference 

between the first application and this one is the secondary focus of the performance of 

the streamer lines. In application two, the performance could and would be noted, but 

the performance variations between highs and lows would not be tracked continuously 

during the setting event. Thus, the alternative method would provide a more general 

idea of the lines’ operating performance. In this application of the EMS units, the 

recording frame rates could be reduced significantly to allow for longer system 

deployment and to remove the necessity for an automated trigger for the setting event. 

The setting camera recording frame rate requirements would be set before the vessel’s 

departure from port, and the cameras would record the area aft of the vessel 

continuously in 10 or 15-second intervals. This type of EMS configuration could be 

introduced into the commercial fleet with relatively few adjustments to the current 

equipment, but it would still require all streamer lines to be standardized. Again, the 

streamer lines would need optically dense distance markings, or a single distance 

marker that indicates the regulatory performance minimum. 

3.	 In a third application, the setting cameras could be used to monitor the streamer line 

deployment and relative position behind the vessel in 10 or 15-second intervals, which 

would require no modifications to the present streamer line equipment. This type of 

system would require few changes to the EMS units, but it would not address 

regulatory performance requirements because it would lack adequate streamer line 

reference markings. 

Assessment of Hauling Video Imagery 

During their at-sea trials, the F/V Heritage and the F/V Pacific Sun employed similar 

camera configurations and computer configurations (Tables 2 and 4). The vessels used different 

lenses in their EMS cameras during their deployment, but the results revealed no meaningful 

differences in image quality. The results suggest that the image quality is proportional to the 

distance from the viewing subject over the range of distances used in this study. Thus, the lens 

focal length would need to be increased as the distance to the viewing area increases. On both 

vessels, the camera mounting locations, computer compression ratios, and the final recording 

frame rates provided excellent quality images. This design could be a useful model for similar 

applications. 

22

Hauling CCTV Camera Assessment 

Assessment of the hauling cameras was conducted in order to determine if the cameras 

would provide an analyst with enough information to detect an incidentally caught seabird, and 

then to identify that seabird to species. The first two assessments of the seabird images provided 

encouraging results on the ability of the analysts to accurately identify the retrieved seabirds 

from the images. The third assessment, which was conducted by an independent analyst from 

Archipelago Marine, Ltd, provided considerable support to the claim that video analysts can 

successfully detect and identify incidentally caught seabirds using the EMS technology. 

Seabird Identification Experiment 

Analysis of Video Images 

The first analysis showed that of the total 63 specimens retrieved, 52 of them were 

identified as seabirds. These findings suggest that, under similar conditions and with similar 

seabirds, the EMS cameras could provide video images that would allow analysts to differentiate 

seabird bycatch from other longline bycatch to an accuracy of 83%. 

We believe the combined results of SRFR and FRFR in the first assessment provide an 

inaccurate picture of the EMS image capabilities because 7 of the 11 seabirds identified as 

unknown objects were recorded at a SRFR. The image frame rates investigated at less than 2 fps 

by the roller camera, and at less than 1 fps by the deck camera, significantly reduced the ability 

of the analyst to identify the seabird specimens and therefore skewed the results. On the other 

hand, the images received at the FRFR using a more optimal recording frame rate resulted in 

91%, or 41 of 45, being identified as seabirds, and 29 of 41 being identified to the correct species 

(Figs. 27 and 28). Most significantly, the FRFR assessment reveals that on 10 of the 11 sets in 

which the entire albatross was retrieved intact, the IPHC analyst was able to identify the bird as 

an albatross. The one albatross that was identified merely as an unspecified seabird was a dropoff, and therefore it provided no clear image from which to make a determination. Additionally, 

on 9 of the 11 albatross sets, the analyst was able to gather enough species characteristic 

information from the images to determine the species with relative confidence. 

These findings are important because they suggest that, under the conditions experienced 

during the study, an analyst would be able to successfully differentiate the albatross species from 

the other north Pacific seabirds commonly encountered during commercial longlining. 

As indicated in the study, a definite relationship exists between correct seabird 

identification and increased recording frame rates. The faster frame rate provided the analyst 

with a greater number of images of the specimens, and thus created a higher probability of 

capturing an image that contained a unique species characteristic. However, the relationship 

between these two variables diminishes after a particular fast frame rate is reached, indicating 

that the potential for identifying the birds will not increase proportionally as the frame rate 

increases. This factor is an important consideration when determining the optimal combination 

23

of video recording frame rates and the delivery of the highest quality image with the lowest 

computer storage space (Figs. 25 and 32). 

Seabird Seminar at AFSC 

The seminar at AFSC demonstrated that individuals improved in their ability to correctly 

identify seabirds when they received instruction in proper seabird identification techniques. In 

effect, the participants in the seminar exhibited an identification learning curve. The seminar 

also revealed that individuals have a higher success rate at identifying albatross than the smaller 

shearwaters. When the participants were asked to rate their ability to identify seabirds, the 

majority of the NMFS individuals classified their ability as average (Fig. 33). Therefore, we 

conclude that an analyst’s ability to identify seabirds from images would increase in accuracy 

with training and experience (Fig. 29). Additionally, for the purposes of this component of the 

study, the seabird images had to be projected onto a large screen thus reducing the quality of the 

images. We believe, when considering the above factors, that the results from the seminar are a 

conservative evaluation of the EMS cameras’ ability to produce images of seabirds of sufficient 

clarity to allow accurate identification by dedicated video analysts. 

Detection and Identification of Seabirds from Hauling Video Events 

The third assessment was conducted on 27 hauling events from the FRFR group. Only 27 

of the 40 prearranged hauling events were analyzed because of time constraints. The results 

from the AMR seabird detection and identification experiment revealed that a video analyst was 

able to detect 96% of the seabirds from the images provided by the EMS hard disks. The video 

analyst was able to correctly identify 79% of the seabirds to species, 17% to category, and 4% to 

unknown or unidentified seabird. These figures are similar to the IPHC video analyst’s results in 

terms of the accuracy of seabird identification. The high identification success rate recorded in 

the first and third assessments suggests that the EMS equipment can be employed effectively in 

detecting and identifying seabird bycatch. 

24

POTENTIAL COSTS ASSOCIATED WITH FISHERY MONITORING 

The potential costs for monitoring compliance with the seabird avoidance regulations and 

monitoring the fishery catch for seabird bycatch was examined using EMS and observers as 

contrasting monitoring systems. Data were extracted from the IPHC commercial fishery data 

base from 2001, the most recent year available. These data represented 62-68% of the landings 

by weight in each regulatory area. Records were aggregated to the vessel length categories used 

to determine observer coverage requirements in the Alaskan groundfish fishery (i.e., < 60 feet, 

60-124 feet, ≥125 feet). 

The vessel logbook data were expanded to total commercial IFQ and CDQ landings to 

provide estimates of total effort. Estimates of the total number of fishing days, trips, and vessels 

were made based on the ratio of logbook pounds to total pounds landed, then distributed to the 

vessel size categories based on the proportions shown in the logbook data. The total number of 

sets and skates fished was estimated based on the sets or skates per pounds landed from the 

logbook data, by vessel size category. The resulting set of estimated total fishery effort is shown 

in Table 12. 

Two monitoring levels were used in this analysis: the first illustrates 100% monitoring 

coverage of all halibut fishing days, and the second reflects current observer coverage 

requirements. Within these monitoring alternatives, an EMS program was contrasted to an onboard observer program, which is familiar to many involved in Alaskan fisheries management. 

Thus, the options examined were: 

Option A: Monitoring 100% of the fishing days for all vessels fishing halibut off Alaska 

by an on-board observer or EMS. This includes all vessels, regardless of size and area. 

We use a single onboard observer for comparison. One obsever would not be able to 

monitor 100% of all fishing effort (setting and haulback) while on board, while an EMS 

system could. 

Option B: Monitoring vessels fishing days for halibut off Alaska by an on-board observer 

or EMS based on the following coverage levels: 100% for vessels greater than 124 feet 

LOA, 30% for vessel between 60 feet and 124 feet LOA; and no coverage (0%) of vessels 

less than 60 feet LOA. These levels of coverage are those currently utilized in the Alaskan 

groundfish fishery. Observers are not able to monitor 100% of the effort (sets and 

haulbacks) while on board. 

Several assumptions were necessary to estimate these costs. First, logbook data do not 

provide information on the time taken to haul the fishing gear back aboard, which is necessary to 

estimate the quantity of digital video that will be recorded and therefore how much time will be 

required to analyze the images. A baseline haul duration of 20 minutes per skate was assumed 

for this purpose. Also, video images could be reviewed at a faster rate than “real time”, therefore 

a review rate of 0.75:1 was assumed, based on this study. We also used the same equipment 

costs which were incurred during the study. These included a rate of $55 per day for the onboard EMS and $32 per day for the video review equipment. Technician time for image analysis 

25

was assumed at $101.50 per day (equivalent to a starting salary federal government technician 

rate). This includes only the direct wages, not overhead for benefits and other costs. Finally, 

observer cost was estimated at $355 per day for the observer and $100 per day in agency costs 

(J. Terry, NMFS, pers. comm.3

). Observer costs included salaries, travel, insurance costs paid by 

the Observer Providers, and other miscellaneous items. Agency costs represent training, 

briefing, debriefing, and data management. The cost analysis does not include any additional 

field management required for EMS deployment, such as additional staffing, travel, and other 

equipment. Also, NMFS may decide that field staff would be needed in ports other than Kodiak 

and Dutch Harbor, but this additional staffing is not included here. For simplicity, we developed 

these figures using only a single observer per vessel. Note that one observer could only spotcheck the gear setting and monitor a subsample of the haul. On the other hand, this observer 

could also complete various biological sampling duties as well as monitor the catch. 

Results of Cost Comparison 

With Option A, the setting and hauling activities of all vessels fishing for halibut off 

Alaska would be observed. It applies to all areas and vessels, regardless of size. Each vessel 

would carry a monitoring system (observer or EMS) to provide coverage of all halibut fishing, 

including those trips where halibut and sablefish are targeted (”mixed” targets). 

The calculations showed that an on-board observer program to monitor all setting and haul 

back activities of vessels fishing for halibut off Alaska would cost $8.46 million (Table 13), 

based on data from 2001. This is broken down as Area 2C - $3.0 million (35% of total), 3A - 

$2.6 million (31%), 3B - $1.2 million (14%), and Area 4 - $1.6 million (19%). Roughly 86% of 

the total fishery cost is attributed to observing vessels less than 60 feet LOA. Although the 

actual amount varies by area, the “less than 60 feet” size class requires the largest amount of 

funding of all three vessel size classes in every area. This is a direct reflection of the large 

number of small vessels that fish for halibut. 

Using EMS to monitor the fishery is estimated at $2.7 million (Table 13), about one-third 

as much as an observer program. This estimate includes system leases, installation and removal 

on the vessels, video review equipment, and analytic personnel time for fully reviewing all 

setting and haul back events. The relative cost breakdown among vessel size classes is similar to 

the observer option, with 82% of the total attributed to the ”less than 60 feet” size class, 17% for 

the 60-124 feet class, and only 1% to the largest vessels, but the actual costs are much lower. 

The overall cost of monitoring is reduced considerably with Option B, which excludes 

small vessels from being monitored and reduces the monitoring of 60-124 feet vessels to 30%. 

An EMS program is estimated at $0.22 million, while an observer program with this coverage 

requirement is $0.41 million, or almost twice the EMS cost (Table 13). The exclusion of the 

small vessels is the primary reason for the large reduction in cost from Option A for both EMS 

and an observer program. With Option B, the bulk of the costs are shifted away from Area 2C, 

3

National Marine Fisheries Service, Alaska Fisheries Science Center, REFM Division, 7600 Sand Point Way NE 

Building 4, Seattle, WA, 98115, personal communication. 

26

into Areas 3A, 3B and 4. Monitoring Area 4 would be the most costly due to the preponderance 

of larger vessels that fish in the area. 

It cannot be emphasized enough that these costs are presented as approximate estimates 

only. Actual costs will likely be different after objectives are determined and sampling protocols 

adopted. For example, the estimates include reviewing the EMS for the entire haul back of each 

vessel. A subsampling procedure could be written to provide only a partial review, thereby 

reducing the cost of the EMS option. 

The EMS costs presented here are based on leasing the systems. Actual program costs may 

be quite different for several reasons. First, another vendor may charge higher or lower daily 

leasing rates. Also, leasing a large number of systems may result in lower fees. NMFS may 

decide to purchase systems rather than leasing, which would result in a higher up-front cost but a 

reduced annual system cost. 

Observer programs can offer more benefits to management than an EMS program. While 

EMS can provide a comprehensive look at compliance to certain regulations (e.g., seabird 

avoidance device requirements) it is not as effective at other tasks, such as biological sampling 

and catch estimation. Observer sampling can provide certain types of information that EMS 

cannot, simply by virtue of having a sampler on board the vessel. 

The need for additional field offices and staff was beyond the scope of this analysis and 

was not examined. NMFS estimates the annual cost of the Groundfish Observer Program’s 

office in Dutch Harbor at $130,000. This represents only the basic rent and utilities for the office 

and part of an apartment for the staff, a leased government vehicle, salary for one employee 

(GS 9-1, no overtime) and a limited amount of travel. It does not include cost of equipment, 

furniture, etc. This is considered a low estimate; the real costs will depend on the specifics of 

what is required, local rent and utility rates, etc. It is likely that an EMS program would also 

require additional field staff and support structure. 

27

CONCLUSIONS 

This study produced a number of encouraging observations on the effectiveness and the 

adaptability of EMS technology in the continuing effort to reduce seabird mortality in the halibut 

longline fisheries. The results of the study suggest two potential applications for this technology, 

based on differing management objectives. The first application would have a compliance 

objective, applying the EMS technology to a specified number of commercial halibut vessels 

solely for monitoring streamer line deployment. The EMS streamer line monitoring program 

would be, among all existing alternatives, likely the least expensive to operate and to analyze, 

but the cost structure would be dependant upon choices made for coverage, and sizes and number 

of vessel in the program. This program would monitor the deployment, relative position, and the 

vessel’s compliance with the streamer line performance regulations but not account for the 

incidental seabird bycatch. 

The second application would have two objectives: compliance and monitoring bycatch. 

The program would apply to vessels meeting specified criteria (i.e., size, area, and season of 

fishing) to monitor the deployment, position, and relative performance of the streamer lines, and 

also monitor incidental catch of seabirds. This program would require significantly more EMS 

oversight and maintenance, and would have higher analytical costs by virtue of the higher 

amount of data recorded and attendant analytical/personnel time, than the streamer line 

monitoring application. Information on cost of these factors is available from work by AMR in 

the Canadian halibut fishery. At present, AMR is using EMS technology on selected halibut 

vessels fishing in Canadian waters. The EMS program covered 3.5% of the total Canadian 

halibut fishing days in 2003 and is being expanded to approximately 6% in 2004 (McElderry, 

pers. comm4

.). The EMS program is designed and is being used to monitor all target and bycatch 

species caught during longline operations. At the conclusion of a vessel’s fishing trip, an AMR 

technician retrieves the hard disks from the EMS unit, and an analyst reviews all of the images 

and records all of the species caught and discarded. The analysis time for any given hauling 

event is proportional to the amount of gear used. The video analysis takes an estimated 

42 minutes for every 60 minutes of actual hauling time. If a similar program were developed for 

the Alaskan halibut fleet, which concentrated only on monitoring for incidentally caught 

seabirds, the video analysis time is expected to be equal or less than the Canadian halibut fishery 

program. The relative cost of an EMS program to monitor the occurrence of incidentally caught 

seabirds would likely be less then the present AMR program since the analysts would be 

focusing strictly on seabird bycatch, and not fish bycatch. However, should the system be 

implemented in order to address seabird bycatch objectives should be reviewed so that decisions 

to review fish bycatch can be made a priori. Both of these options are possible given the present 

state of EMS technology. 

4

 H. McElderry, Archipelago Marine Research, 525 Head Street, Victoria, B.C., Canada, V9A 5S1. 

28 
RECOMMENDATIONS 

The following recommendations outline the potential next steps in the application of EMS 

technology to fisheries. 

Option One: EMS Monitoring of Streamer Lines 

The EMS technology should be evaluated without onboard vessel staff. This would allow a 

more independent assessment of the EMS capabilities. We recommend that the study 

incorporate the following steps and procedures. 

The project should incorporate a variety of Alaskan commercial halibut vessels. The 

vessels should be equipped with two setting cameras, an EMS computer, and data recording 

sensors, paralleling the set up used on the F/V Heritage. The aft hemisphere should be divided 

into two regions. Each setting camera should use an 8 mm focal length lens and should be 

angled at one of the regions with a large intersecting overlap between the two cameras. This 

overlap should be of sufficient size to allow each camera to record the majority of the area 

between the vessel’s wake. All vessels with EMS units should use streamer lines that are 

standardized with mounting configurations similar to the ones used by the F/V Heritage. 

Standardized streamer line materials should be optically dense with a large, optically dense 

reference marker at distance intervals. These modifications to the streamer lines would allow for 

easier video analysis, which would be reflected in less analysis time, and would also provide an 

important diagnostic tool for the vessel crew. The computer video recording functions should be 

set at 10 × image compression, and should capture images and sensory data continuously in 

15-second intervals. With this arrangement the EMS unit could store an estimated 48 days of 

video images on a 36-gigabyte hard disk, and the sensory data computer could store 45 days 

worth of data. The required EMS recording specifications are provided in Table 14. Postprocessed sensor information could be used to detect and document specific setting event 

activities for video examination. This procedure would allow for the most cost-effective and 

time-efficient use of the EMS technology for monitoring streamer lines. Also, the proposed 

study would provide information on other potential problems not encountered during this study, 

and would provide an evaluation of the setting cameras and EMS units in a commercial 

operation. 

Option Two: EMS Monitoring of Streamer Lines and Seabird Incidental Catch 

A second option would be to monitor the deployment, position and relative performance of 

the streamer lines as outlined above, and monitor the incidental catch of seabirds. 

This program should incorporate a variety of Alaskan commercial halibut vessels and 

should parallel this study in terms of the mounting locations for the final hauling cameras, 

computer compressions, and the recording frame rates (Tables 14 and 15). The video hard disk 

and logging data storage capacity should be increased to allow for multiple fishing trips. The 

29

software on the EMS data-logging computer should be programmed to activate the hauling video 

cameras autonomously when the hydraulic pressure increases at the gurdy during gear retrieval. 

The logging computer can provide this function when a hydraulic pressure sensor is installed to 

the gurdy. 

There should be no modifications to the EMS equipment once the vessel has left the dock. 

This project should require the EMS vessels to retain all incidentally caught seabirds for 

inspection and identification by NMFS plant observers during vessel offloading. The inspection 

of the incidentally caught seabirds by NMFS would provide a calibration component by serving 

as a comparison to the video imagery. The first-hand inspection of incidentally caught seabirds 

would supply important information on the effects of gear soak on the seabird’s physical 

characteristics. There is concern that the degradation of the seabird through extensive soak time 

would cause identification difficulties. This option would provide assistance in the development 

of video seabird identification techniques through a video analysis-training program, and would 

provide information on possible problems in an operational setting. 

30

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS 

We are grateful for the support and co-operation of the fishers and owners of the F/V 

Heritage and F/V Pacific Sun. Especially, we would like to thank Captains Mike Sharrah and 

Doug Lyle from the F/V Heritage, and Captain Jeff Hochstein from the F/V Pacific Sun. In 

addition, we would like to express our gratitude to the IPHC sea-samplers involved in this 

project: Antony Zanini for conducting the electronic monitoring project on the F/V Pacific Sun, 

and sea-samplers Julie Kellicutt, Suzanne Sullivan, Ray Byrne, and Joan Forsberg for their 

assistance. We are also thankful for the advisory and field support provided by NMFS-AFSC, 

specifically Sharon Davis, and Jennifer Watson. 

Additionally, we would like to acknowledge the technical and advisory support provided 

by Archipelago Marine Research (AMR), in particular Howard McElderry, Dale McCullough, 

and Jessica Schrader. As well, we would like to thank AMR for the written description of the 

electronic monitoring system. We would also like to thank Ed Melvin from Washington Sea 

Grant for advice during the analysis stage of the study. Reviews by Craig Rose (AFSC), Kim 

Rivera (Alaska Region), and Martin Loefflad (AFSC) were also very helpful. Finally, the report 

benefited significantly from the advice and direction provided by IPHC staff members, 

specifically, Bruce Leaman, Claude Dykstra, Tim Loher, Din Chen, and Kelly Van Wormer. 

31

 

CITATIONS 


Armstrong, R. H. 1995. Guide to the birds of Alaska, 4th edition. Alaska Northwest Books. 

Froese, R. and D. Pauly. Editors. 2003. FishBase. electronic publication. www.fishbase.org. 

(Accessed 04/21/03). 

Geernaert, T. O., Gilroy, H. L., Kaimmer, S. M., Williams, G. H., and Trumble, R. J. 2001. A 

feasibility study that investigates options for monitoring bycatch of the short-tailed Albatross 

in the Pacific halibut fishery off Alaska. Int. Pac. Halibut Comm. Sci. Rep. Contract number 

40HANF000046. 

International Pacific Halibut Commission. Unpub. 2002 Stock assessment survey manual. Int. 

Pac. Halibut Comm., Seattle, WA. 

Melvin, E. F., Parrish, J. K., Dietrich, K. S., and Hamel, O. S. 2001. Solutions to seabird bycatch 

in Alaska’s demersal longline fisheries. Washington Sea Grant Program, University of 

Washington, WA. 

National Geographic Society. 1987. Field guide to the birds of North America, Second edition, 

National Geographic Society, Washington D.C. 

National Marine Fisheries Service. 2004. Revised seabird avoidance measures, found at 50 Code 

of Federal Regulations Part 679. Federal Register announcement 69 FR pp. 1930-1951 is 

available at http://www.fakr.noaa.gov/protectedresources/seabirds/regulations.htm 

United States Fish and Wildlife Service. 1998. Bering Sea/Aleutian Islands and the Gulf of 

Alaska Halibut Fishery Biological Opinion. March 13, 1998. Available from: Ecological 

Services Division, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 4th Street, Anchorage, AK. 

United States Fish and Wildlife Service. 2003. Programmatic Biological Opinion on the 

Effects of the Fishery Management Plans (FMPs) for the Gulf of Alaska (GOA) and Bering 

Sea/Aleutian Islands (BSAI) Groundfish Fisheries on the Endangered Short-tailed Albatross 

(Phoebastria albatrus) and Threatened Steller’s Eider (Polysticta stelleri). Available from: 

Ecological Services Division, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 4th Street, Anchorage, AK. 

33

 

LIST OF TABLES 


Table 1. 	 Setting camera lenses, compression ratios, and frame rates used to record setting 

events on the F/V Heritage. 

Table 2. 	 Deck and roller camera lenses, compression ratios, and frame rates used to record 

hauling events on the F/V Heritage. 

Table 3. 	 Setting camera lenses, compression ratios, and frame rates used to record setting 

events on the F/V Pacific Sun. 

Table 4. 	 Deck and roller camera lenses, compression ratios, and frame rates used to monitor 

hauling events on the F/V Pacific Sun. 

Table 5. 	 Seabird image identification techniques (SIIT) used in the seabird identification test. 

Table 6. 	 Electronic monitoring system errors and problems encountered during the study. 

Table 7. 	 Number of daylight sets by camera configuration, by percentage of video coverage 

during setting event, and by the ability of the video analyst to determine the streamer 

line detection, position and performance on the F/V Heritage. 

Table 8. 	 Number of daylight sets by camera configuration, by percentage of video coverage 

during setting event, and by the ability of a video analyst to determine the streamer 

line detection, position and performance on the F/V Pacific Sun. 

Table 9. 	 Identity and total number of seabirds recovered by the F/V Heritage and F/V Pacific 

Sun, and the IPHC video analyst identification results. The seabirds were identified 

as 1) an unknown object, 2) to a seabird category, or 3) to species. 

Table 10. 	Identity and number of seabirds recovered (n = 18) at ‘slow recording frame rates’ 

(SRFR) by the F/V Heritage and F/V Pacific Sun, and the IPHC video analyst 

identification results. The seabirds were identified as 1) an unknown object, 2) to a 

seabird category, and 3) to species. 

Table 11. 	Identity and number of seabirds recovered (n = 45) at a ‘fast recording frame rate’ 

(FRFR) by the F/V Heritage and F/V Pacific Sun, and the IPHC video analyst 

identification results. The seabirds were identified as 1) an unknown object, 2) to a 

seabird category, or 3) to species. 

Table 12. 	Estimated total fishery catch and effort for the 2001 fishery for Pacific halibut off 

Alaska. 

Table 13. 	Estimated costs of using EMS and on-board fishery observers to monitor the Pacific 

halibut hook-&-line fishery off Alaska. 

Table 14. 	Optimal setting camera lenses, compression ratios, and frame rates per minute. 

Table 15. 	Optimal deck and roller camera lenses, compression ratios, and frame rates per 

second. 

35

 

LIST OF FIGURES 

Figure 1. Schematic of the electronic monitor system components (courtesy of Archipelago 

Marine Research, Victoria, B.C.). 

Figure 2. EMS set-up used on the F/V Pacific Sun, featuring the computer control box, status 

display monitor, and TV monitor. 

Figure 3. IPHC regulatory areas and 2002 assessment survey stations. 

Figure 4. The F/V Heritage, a 20-m LOA vessel which fishes Pacific halibut, chartered by the 

International Pacific Halibut Commission to conduct a stock assessment survey. 

Figure 5. The F/V Pacific Sun, a 37-m steel hull vessel which fishes for Pacific halibut, 

chartered by the International Pacific Halibut Commission to conduct a stock 

assessment survey. 

Figure 6. Diagram of the deck on the F/V Heritage, showing the approximate location of the 

EMS cameras on the stern (right side) and roller (upper left). 

Figure 7. Location of two stern setting cameras on the F/V Heritage. 

Figure 8. EMS GPS receiver (left) and hauling cameras (center and right) and on the F/V 

Heritage. 

Figure 9. Mounting location and relative position of the roller camera on the F/V Heritage. 

Figure 10. Diagram of the deck on the F/V Pacific Sun, showing the approximate location of 

the EMS cameras on the stern (right side) and roller (upper left). 

Figure 11. Locations of F/V Pacific Sun’s two hauling cameras. 

Figure 12. Paired streamer lines being towed behind a vessel. 

Figure 13. Schematic of standardized streamer lines. From Melvin et al. (2001). 

Figure 14. Flow chart of seabird image identification techniques. 

Figure 15. Comparison of mean performance values, range (vertical dotted lines), and standard 

deviations (vertical solid lines) from video and vessel observations collected on the 

F/V Heritage. 

Figure 16. Comparison of the vessel and video starboard side streamer line performance for 

each setting event on the F/V Heritage. 

Figure 17. Comparison of the performance of the starboard side streamer line by vessel and 

video observation on the F/V Heritage. The positive trend line represents the linear 

association of the performance values. 

Figure 18. Comparison of the vessel and video port side streamer line performance for each 

setting event on the F/V Heritage. 

Figure 19. Comparison of the performance of the starboard side streamer line by vessel and 

video observation on the F/V Heritage. The positive trend line represents the linear 

association of the performance values. 

37

Figure 20. Comparison of the mean performance values, range (vertical dotted lines), and 

standard deviation (vertical solid lines) from vessel and video observations collected 

on the F/V Pacific Sun. 

Figure 21. Comparison of the vessel and video starboard side streamer line performance for 

each setting event on the F/V Pacific Sun. 

Figure 22. Comparison of the performance of the starboard side streamer line by vessel and 

video observation on the F/V Pacific Sun. The positive trend line represents the 

linear association of the performance values. 

Figure 23. Comparison of the vessel and video port side streamer line performance for each 

setting event on the F/V Pacific Sun. 

Figure 24. Comparison of the performance of the port side streamer line by vessel and video 

observation on the F/V Pacific Sun. No positive trend line or linear association of 

the performance values was noted. 

Figure 25. Comparison of correct identification of seabirds by a video analyst at four different 

frame rates. 

Figure 26. Comparison of SRFR group (n = 18) and the video analyst’ seabird image 

recognition capabilities. 

Figure 27. Comparison of FRFR group (n = 45) and the video analyst’ seabird image 

recognition capabilities. 

Figure 28. Comparison of seabird recognition capabilities by “slow” and “fast” camera 

recording frame rates. 

Figure 29. The six seabird specimen image categories and the ability of NMFS North Pacific 

Groundfish Observer Program staff to identify the seabirds correctly from video 

images. 

Figure 30. Seabird detection (n = 25) results from AMR’s analysis of 27 hauling video events. 

Figure 31. Seabird video identification results (n = 24) from AMR’s analysis of 27 hauling 

video events. 

Figure 32. Relationship between correctly identified seabirds and the increase in recording 

frame rates. There is an inverse relative between recording frame rate and 

maximum recording capacity. 

Figure 33. Self rating by NMFS seminar participants on their personal seabird identification 

abilities. 

38

Table 1. Setting camera lenses, compression ratios, and frame rates used to record setting 

events on the F/V Heritage. 

Initial Second Final 

configuration configuration configuration 

No. of sets 59 73 11 

3.6 mm wide angle 12 mm telephoto 8 mm telephoto Camera 1 lenses lens and lens lens 12 mm telephoto lens 

16 mm telephoto lens 12 mm telephoto Camera 2 lenses and No camera used lens 12 mm telephoto lens 

Camera 1 10 × 10 × Compression ratios 20 ×, 15 ×, 10 ×

Camera 2 10 × No camera used Compression ratios 20 ×, 15 ×, 10 ×

Camera 1 frame rates 1 1 (frames per second) 1, 0.5 

Camera 2 frame rates 1 No camera used (frames per second) 1, 2 

39 
Table 2. Deck and roller camera lenses, compression ratios, and frame rates used to record 

hauling events on the F/V Heritage. 

Initial Second 

configuration configuration 

No. of Sets 38 106 

Deck Camera lenses 12 mm 12 mm 

Roller Camera lenses 12 mm 12 mm 

Deck Camera 20 × compression ratios 20 ×

Roller Camera 20 × compression ratios 20 ×

Deck Camera frame rates 

(frames per second) 1 1, 1.5 

Roller camera frame rates 

(frames per second) 1 2, 2.5, 4, 5 

40

Table 3. Setting camera lenses, compression rates, and frame rates used to record setting 

events on the F/V Pacific Sun. 

Initial configuration Second configuration 

No. of sets 23 22 

Camera 1 lenses 3.6 mm wide angle lens 12 mm telephoto lens 

Camera 2 lenses 16 mm telephoto lens 12 mm telephoto lens 

Camera 1 10 × compression ratios 20 ×

Camera 2 10 x compression ratios 20 ×, 10 × 

Camera 1 frame rates 2 (frames per second) 1, 0.5 

Camera 2 frame rates 1 2 (frames per second) 

41 
Table 4. Deck and roller camera lenses, compression rates, and frame rates used to monitoring 

hauling events on the F/V Pacific Sun. 

Initial configuration Second configuration 

No. of sets 23 22

Deck Camera lenses 8 mm 8 mm 

Roller Camera lenses 8 mm 8 mm 

Deck Camera 20 × compression rates 20 ×

Roller Camera 20 × compression rates 20 ×

Deck Camera frame rates 1 2 (frames per second) 

Roller Camera frame rates 

(frames per second) 1 1, 2, 5 

42

Table 5. Seabird image identification techniques (SIIT) used in the seabird identification test. 

Step Description 

1a. The animal on the hook is in fact a seabird. (Proceed to number 2a.) 

1b. The animal on the hook is not a seabird. 

2a. Estimate of the seabird’s size by using known references that appear in the 

background. For example, size references used were the groundline, halibut hooks, 

roller horn, rollerman’s body or body parts, gaffs, gangions, fishers’ boots, etc. 

(Proceed to number 3a.) 

2b. If unable to determine the size, then the seabird is categorized simply as an 

unidentified seabird. 

3a. Looked at plumage coloration in order to place the seabird into a given species 

category. (Proceed to number 4a.) 

3b. Unable to determine plumage coloration, then the seabird is an unidentified seabird 

within a given size category. 

4a. Look for individual features of the seabird’s bill, feet and plumage. (Proceed to 

number 5a.) 

4b. Unable to identify two or more distinct features associated with a species, then the 

seabird would be categorized as belonging to a particular group. 

5a. Able to determine the approximate size, along with two or more distinctive features 

that could be associated with a particular species, conclude that the species could be 

identified with a reasonable degree of confidence. 

43

Table 6. Electronic monitoring system errors and problems encountered during the study. 

1.	 Both vessels - Non-triggered recording events. On this project the EMS video recording function 

was designed to be manually triggered on and off. A non-triggered recording event occurred when 

the EMS started and stopped recording without instruction. This was an infrequent and minor 

problem; approximately seven total non-triggered recording events occurred during the study. All 

non-triggered recording events were under 20 seconds in length. Possible causes include power 

surges or power fluctuations. A solution would be a regulated power supply and a back up battery 

power supply to the EMS units. 

2.	 F/V Heritage - encountered two computer hard drive errors or small computer system interface 

(SCSI) errors during the 3-month deployment. Due to the SCSI error, the computer software 

would not recognize the hard drive, and therefore would not record events. The system would 

resolve the error if it were left untouched for an hour. The cause is unknown, but the problem 

could be a result of a cold EMS start-up. A cold start-up occurs if the system has been turned off 

or left inactive for a long period of time. If the system has been turned off it may have difficulty 

recognizing the hard drive during the initial startup. The errors were only encountered when 

changing hard drives. A possible solution would be to start up the systems after hard drive 

installation and have them tested before the vessel leaves port. 

3.	 F/V Heritage - Unable to acquire a GPS satellite signal for a few hours during Trips 2 and 3. A 

possible cause was interference from the vessel wheelhouse. A solution would be to mount the 

GPS on the vessel’s mast with full skyline range. 

4.	 F/V Heritage – The EMS stopped recording on Station 6114. The event was abruptly stopped 

when the recording keyboard or triggering device came loose from the wall mount, hit the floor, 

and stopped the recording event. The solution would be the use of an automated system, which 

does not require a keyboard for operations. 

5.	 F/V Pacific Sun - Station 6088, the recorded images during this station were washed out red. The 

cause is unknown, but it was most likely technician error. 

6.	 F/V Pacific Sun - Stations 6112, 6110, and 6111 had shaky hauling images. The cause was 

improper recording set-up by the third sea-sampler. 

7.	 F/V Heritage - the setting cameras were mounted to the bait shed railing. In this location the crew 

periodically jolted the cameras during gear deployment, changing the viewing angle of the 

cameras. The solution would be a more permanent-mounting device and location. 

8.	 F/V Heritage – Camera Leak. A water leak into one of the setting cameras leaked rendered the 

camera unusable. The cause was by either improper set-up during installing or a sea-sampler 

sealing error. 

9.	 Both vessels - Lens focusing problems. Caused by vessel motion and shaking. The solution was to 

secure the lens with glue after installation. 

10. Both vessels - Obstructions from dirt, bait, excess water and other objects on the cameras outer lens 

cover that diminishes viewing capabilities of the cameras. Solution would be to securely install the 

cameras in a semi-permanent location away from vessel crew activities, in an area that is sheltered 

from the weather and have the lens covers cleaned periodically. 

44

Table 7. 	 Number of daylight sets by camera configuration, by percentage of video coverage 

during setting event, and by the ability of the video analyst to determine the streamer 

line detection, position and performance on the F/V Heritage. 

No. of 

Sets 

Percent of video 

coverage of streamer 

lines 

Port side 

streamer line 

Starboard side 

streamer line 

Detection Position Performance Detection Position Performance 

Second camera configuration 

61 100% yes yes yes yes yes yes 

5 99% yes yes yes yes yes yes 

3 98% yes yes yes yes yes yes 

1 97% yes yes yes yes yes yes 

1 96% yes yes yes yes yes yes 

Third camera configuration 

8 100% yes yes yes yes yes yes 

1 99% yes yes yes yes yes yes 

1 98% yes yes yes yes yes yes 

1 0%1 yes yes no no no no 

1

The 0% coverage represented the inability of the analyst to detect deployment, position, and 

performance on the starboard side streamer line for the duration of the setting event. 

45

1

Table 8. 	 Number of daylight sets by camera configuration, by percentage of video coverage 

during setting event, and by the ability (yes/no) of a video analyst to determine the 

streamer line detection, position and performance on the F/V Pacific Sun. 

No. of 

Sets 

Percent of video 

coverage of streamer 

lines 

Port side 

streamer line 

Starboard side 

streamer line 

Detection Position Performance Detection Position Performance 

Second camera configuration 

15 100% 

5 100% 

yes yes yes 

yes yes no 

yes yes yes 

yes yes no 

 98% yes yes yes yes yes yes 

46 
Table 9. 	 Identity and total number of seabirds recovered by the F/V Heritage and F/V Pacific 

Sun, and the IPHC video analyst identification results. The seabirds were identified 

as 1) an unknown object, 2) to a seabird category, or 3) to species. 

Number Species	 Category Identified to species retrieved 

Shearwater 22 Dark fulmar/ shearwater category Shearwater 

Laysan albatross 6 Short-tailed/Laysan albatross Laysan albatross 

Black-footed 3 Short-tailed/black-footed albatross Black-footed albatross albatross 

Total 31 

Shearwater 16 Small black seabird category Unknown 

Shearwater 3 Dark fulmar/ shearwater category Unknown 

Laysan albatross 1 Short-tailed/Laysan albatross Unknown 

Total 20 

Shearwater 10 Unknown object Unknown 

Black-footed 1 Unidentified black seabird 	 Unknown albatross 

Laysan albatross 1 Unknown object Unknown 

Total 12 

47 
Table 10. 	Identity and number of seabirds recovered (n = 18) at ”slow recording frame rates” 

(SRFR) by the F/V Heritage and F/V Pacific Sun, and the IPHC video analyst 

identification results. The seabirds were identified as 1) an unknown object, 2) to a 

seabird category, and 3) to species. 

Species Number 

Retrieved Category Identified to species 

Shearwater 2 dark fulmar/shearwater category Shearwater 

Shearwater 2 dark fulmar/shearwater category Unknown 

Shearwater 7 small black seabird category Unknown 

Shearwater 7 Unknown object Unknown 

Total 18 

48

Table 11. 	Identity and number of seabirds recovered (n = 45) at a ”fast recording frame rate” 

(FRFR) by the F/V Heritage and F/V Pacific Sun, and the IPHC video analyst 

identification results. The seabirds were identified as 1) an unknown object, 2) to a 

seabird category, or 3) to species. 

Species Number 

retrieved Category Identified to species 

Shearwater 20 dark fulmar/shearwater category Shearwater 

Laysan albatross 6 Short-tailed/Laysan albatross Laysan albatross 

Black-footed 

albatross 3 Short-tailed/black-footed albatross Black-footed albatross 

Total 29 

Shearwater 1 dark fulmar/shearwater category Unknown 

Shearwater 9 Small black seabird category Unknown 

Laysan albatross 1 Short-tailed/Laysan albatross Unknown 

Total 11 

Shearwater 3 Unknown object Unknown 

Laysan albatross 1 Unknown object Unknown 

Black-footed 

albatross 1 Unidentified black seabird Unknown 

Total 5 

49

--- 

Table 12. Estimated total fishery catch and effort for the 2001 Pacific halibut fishery off Alaska. 

IPHC Area 

and Vessel 

Size 

No. of 

Vessels 

No. of 

Fishing Days 

No. of 

Trips 

Total 

Pounds Landed 

No. of 

Skates 

No. of 

Sets 

Area 2C 

< 60 568 6,527 2,561 8,185,722 71,757 13,813 

60-124 17 95 42 217,278 1,176 172 

125+ 0 0 - 0 - 0 

Total 585 6,622 2,602 8,403,000 72,934 13,985 

Area 3A 

< 60 613 5,165 2,423 16,165,004 71,036 11,105 

60-124 95 596 270 5,179,074 11,562 1,611 

125+ 3 26 8 196,923 806 92 

Total 711 5,788 2,701 21,541,000 83,405 12,808 

Area 3B 

< 60 215 1,701 702 8,669,075 31,254 4,502 

60-124 89 860 265 7,260,141 21,253 2,651 

125+ 4 64 19 406,784 2,291 272 

Total 309 2,626 986 16,336,000 54,797 7,425 

Area 4 

< 60 124 2,569 1,468 6,895,570 34,799 6,955 

60-124 64 918 238 6,159,312 20,646 2,863 

125+ 3 72 10 396,117 1,871 208 

Total 192 3,560 1,716 13,451,000 57,316 10,025 

TOTAL 18,595 8,005 59,731,000 268,452 44,243 

50

Table 13. Estimated costs of using Electronic Monitoring Systems and on-board fishery observers to monitor th

hook-and-line fishery off Alaska. 

IPHC Area & OPTION A: 100 PERCENT COVERAGE OPTION B: 0/30/100 PERCE Vessel Class EMS OBS EMS Area 2C 

<60 $ 841,864 (98.2%) $ 2,969,811 (98.6%) $ - (0.0%) $ 

60-124 $ 15,153 (1.8%) $ 43,071 (1.4%) $ 7,868 (100.0%) $ 

125+ $ - (0.0%) $ - (0.0%) $ - (0.0%) $ 

Total $ 857,017 (31.4%) $ 3,012,882 (35.6%) $ 7,868 (3.5%) $ 

Area 3A 

<60 $ 771,532 (86.9%) $ 2,350,225 (89.2%) $ - (0.0%) $ 

60-124 $ 110,873 (12.5%) $ 271,350 (10.3%) $ 51,818 (89.8%) $ 

125+ $ 5,893 (0.7%) $ 11,766 (0.4%) $ 5,893 (10.2%) $ 

Total $ 888,298 (32.6%) $ 2,633,340 (31.1%) $ 57,711 (26.0%) $ 

Area 3B 

<60 $ 292,976 (61.8%) $ 774,157 (64.8%) $ - (0.0%) $ 

60-124 $ 166,510 (35.1%) $ 391,405 (32.8%) $ 67,319 (81.8%) $ 

125+ $ 14,954 (3.2%) $ 29,289 (2.5%) $ 14,954 (18.2%) $ 

Total $ 474,440 (17.4%) $ 1,194,851 (14.1%) $ 82,274 (37.1%) $ 

Area 4 

<60 $ 335,291 (65.9%) $ 1,169,119 (72.2%) $ - (0.0%) $ 

60-124 $ 160,704 (31.6%) $ 417,543 (25.8%) $ 60,743 (82.2%) $ 

125+ $ 13,123 (2.6%) $ 32,964 (2.0%) $ 13,123 (17.8%) $ 

Total $ 509,119 (18.7%) $ 1,619,626 (19.1%) $ 73,867 (33.3%) $ 

ALL AREAS 

<60 $ 2,241,662 (82.1%) $ 7,263,312 (85.8%) $ - (0.0%) $ 

60-124 $ 453,241 (16.6%) $ 1,123,369 (13.3%) $ 187,749 (84.7%) $ 

125+ $ 33,970 (1.2%) $ 74,019 (0.9%) $ 33,970 (15.3%) $ 

Total $ 2,728,873 - $ 8,460,699 - $ 221,719 - $ 

TOTAL $ 2,728,873 - $ 8,460,699 - $ 221,719 - $ 

51 

Table 14. Optimal setting camera lenses, compression ratios, and frame rates per minute. 

Camera specification Setting configuration 

Camera 1 and 2 lenses 8 mm 

Camera 1 and 2 compression 

ratios 10 × 

Camera 1 and 2 frame rates 

(frames per minute) 4 

52 

Table 15. Optimal deck and roller camera lenses, compression ratios, and frame rates per 

second. 

Camera specification Hauling configuration 

Deck and Roller camera lenses 8 mm or 12 mm 

Deck and Roller camera 

compression ratios 20 × 

Deck camera frame rates 

(frames per second) 1.5 

Roller camera frame rates 

(frames per second) 2.5 

53 

54 

Figure 1. Schematic features of the electronic monitor system components (courtesy of 

Archipelago Marine Research, Victoria, B.C.). The computer control box is 

composed of the operating system and data storage. 
Figure 2. Electronic Monitoring System set-up used on the F/V Pacific Sun, featuring the 

computer control box, status display monitor, and TV monitor. 

55 

56 

Figure 3. International Pacific Halibut Commission regulatory areas and 2002 assessment 

survey stations. 

1998 IPHC Setline Surveys Washington

Oregon

Vancouver

Charlotte

St. James

Goose Is.

Yakutat

Fairweather

Sitka

Ommaney

Ketchikan

Albatross

Portlock

Gore Pt.

Seward PWS

Sanak

Shumagin

Chignik

Semidi

Trinity

Unalaska

Adak Attu

4A Edge

4D Edge

Shelikof

3A

4B

4D

4A

2A

2C

3B

2B

4E

4C

Closed Area
Figure 4. The F/V Heritage, a 20-m length overall vessel chartered by the International Pacific 

Halibut Commission. 

57 

Figure 5. The F/V Pacific Sun, a 37-m steel hull vessel chartered by the International Pacific 

Halibut Commission. Photo courtesy Sara Wilson, IPHC. 

58 

Figure 6. Diagram of the deck on the F/V Heritage, showing the approximate location of the 

Electronic Monitoring System cameras on the stern (right side) and roller (upper left). 

59 

Figure 7. Location of the two stern setting cameras on the F/V Heritage. 

60 

Figure 8. Electronic Monitoring System global positioning system receiver (left) and hauling 

cameras (center and right) and on the F/V Heritage. 

61 

Figure 9. Mounting location and relative position of the roller camera on the F/V Heritage. 

62 

Figure 10. Diagram of the deck on the F/V Pacific Sun, showing the approximate location of the 

EMS cameras on the stern (right side) and roller (upper left). 

63 

Figure 11. Locations of F/V Pacific Sun’s two hauling cameras. 

64 

Figure 12. Paired streamer lines being towed behind a vessel. 

65 

Figure 13. Schematic of standardized streamer lines. From Melvin et al. (2001). 

66 

STAL LAAL 

STAL BFAL 

UNID AL 

/ /

GULL KITTI 

SHEAR DK. FUL 

ALCID JAEGER 

KITTI

 FULMAR

GULL

 SHEAR 

PETREL

/ / /

UNID

LAAL

STAL 

Figure 14. Flow chart of seabird image identification techniques. Abbreviations are STAL = Short-ta

 SEABIRD

 LARGE BIRD SMALL BIRD 

PLUMAGE PLUMAGE 

BILL OTHER FEATURE 

BILL OTHER FEATURE

 BFAL 

LT. FUL 

PETREL SM.DK.BIRD 

BILL OTHER FEATURE 

BILL OTHER FEATURE 

BILL OFEATU

 BIRD SIZE 

 LARGE BIRD 

albatross; BFAL = Black-footed albatross; UNID AL = unidentified albatross; GULL = gull spp.; KITcolored northern fulmar; SHEAR = unidentified dark shearwater; PETREL = petrel spp.; DK FUL = d

SM. DK. BIRD = small dark bird. 

67 
Meters 

70


65


60


55


50


45


40


35


vessel star, N = 82 video star, N = 81 vessel port, N = 82 video port, N = 81 

65 

60 

65 

63 

48 

43 

45 

48 

54.0 

51.6 

57.0 

55.1 

Observations 

Figure 15. Comparison of mean performance values, range (vertical dotted lines), and standard 

deviations (vertical solid lines) from video and vessel observations collected on the 

F/V Heritage. 

68 

70


65


Entry point astern (meters) 

60


55


50


45


40 

1 11 21 31 41 51 61 71 81 

Setting events 

vessel starboard video starboard 

Figure 16. Comparison of the vessel and video starboard side streamer line performance for each 

setting event on the F/V Heritage. 

69 

42 

44 

46 

48 

50 

52 

54 

56 

58 

60 

62 

64 

66 

68 

Video Observations (meters) 

42 44 46 48 50 52 54 56 58 60 62 64 66 68 

Vessel Observations (meters) 

Figure 17. Comparison of the performance of the starboard side streamer line by vessel and 

video observation on the F/V Heritage. The positive trend line represents the linear 

association of the performance values. 

70 

70


65


Entry point astern (meters) 

60


55


50


45


40


1 11 21 31 41 51 61 71 81 

Setting events 

Vessel Port Video Port 

Figure 18. Comparison of the vessel and video port side streamer line performance for each 

setting event on the F/V Heritage. 

71 

42 

44 

46 

48 

50 

52 

54 

56 

58 

60 

62 

64 

66 

68 

Video Observations (meters) 

42 44 46 48 50 52 54 56 58 60 62 64 66 68 

Vessel Observations (meters) 

Figure 19. Comparison of the performance of the starboard side streamer line by vessel and 

video observation on the F/V Heritage. The positive trend line represents the linear 

association of the performance values. 

72 

Meters 

70


65


60


55


50


45


40


35


vessel star, N = 22 video star, N = 20 vessel port, N = 22 video port, N - 21 

55 

65 65 

50 

55 

55 

35 35

45.7 

47.3 

61.4 

54.8 

Observations 

Figure 20. Comparison of the mean performance values, in meters behind the vessel, with range 

(vertical dotted lines), and standard deviation (vertical solid lines) from both sea 

sampler and video observations collected on the F/V Pacific Sun. 

73 

30 

35 

40 

45 

50 

55 

60 

65 

70 

Entry point astern (meters) 

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 

Setting events 

vessel starborad video starboard 

Figure 21. Comparison of the vessel and video starboard side streamer line performance for each 

setting event on the F/V Pacific Sun. 

74 

34 

36 

38 

40 

42 

44 

46 

48 

50 

52 

54 

56 

58 

60 

62 

64 

66 

Video Observations (meters) 

34 36 38 40 42 44 46 48 50 52 54 56 58 60 62 64 66 

Vessel Observations (meters) 

Figure 22. Comparison of the performance of the starboard side streamer line by vessel and 

video observation on the F/V Pacific Sun. The positive trend line represents the 

linear association of the performance values. 

75 

Entry point astern (meters) 

70


65


60


55


50


45


40


1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 

Setting events 

Vessel Port Video Port 

Figure 23. Comparison of the vessel and video port side streamer line performance for each 

setting event on the F/V Pacific Sun. 

76 

48 

50 

52 

54 

56 

58 

60 

62 

64 

66 

Video Observations (meters) 

48 50 52 54 56 58 60 62 64 66 

Vessel Observations (meters) 

Figure 24. Comparison of the performance of the port side streamer line by vessel and video 

observation on the F/V Pacific Sun. No positive trend line or linear association of the 

performance values was noted. 

77 

70


60


50


40


30


20


10


0 

Roller 1 Roller 2 Roller 2.5 Roller 5 

Deck 1 Deck 1 Deck 1.5 Deck 2 

Cameras' Recording Frame Rates (seconds) 

Figure 25. Comparison of correct identification of seabirds by a video analyst at four different 

frame rates. 

Percentage of Correctly Identified Seabirds 

78 

61% 

Identified as a 

seabird 

Unknown 

object 

39% 

Figure 26. Comparison of SRFR group (n = 18) and the video analyst’ seabird image recognition 

capabilities. 

79 

Unknow n object 

9% 

Identified as a 

seabird 

91% 

Figure 27. Comparison of FRFR group (n = 45) and the video analyst’s seabird image 

recognition capabilities. 

80 

Percentage 

70 

60 

50 

40 

30 

20 

10 

0 

Correct Close species Small black Unidentified Unknown 

species ID category bird category seabird object 

category 

Grouping of the slow camera recording rates (roller 1 & 2 fps) and (deck 1 & 1 fps) 

Grouping of the fast camera recording rates (roller 2.5 & 5 fps) and (deck 1.5 & 2 fps) 

Figure 28. Comparison of seabird specimen recognition capabilities by “slow” and “fast” camera 

recording frame rates (fps = frame rates per second). 

81 

Percent of Correct Identification 

100


90


80


70


60


50


40


30


20


10


0 

Image 1 Image 2 Image 3 Image 4 Image 5 Image 6 

Seabird 

Real T me Untutored i St l Image Untutored il Still Image Tutored 

Figure 29. The six seabird specimen image categories and the ability of NMFS North Pacific 

Groundfish Observer Program staff to identify the seabirds correctly from video 

images. 

82 

Missed seabird 

detection 

4% 

Seabird detected 

96% 

Figure 30. Seabird detection (n = 25) results from Archipelago Marine Research’s analysis of 27 

hauling video events. 

83 

Missed detection by


Uni ideo anal


Seabi


identif


Correct seabird 

species identification 

76% 

v

4% 

if i

4% 

g

i

yst dent ed seabird 

rd cate ory 

cation 

16% 

Figure 31. Seabird video identification results (n = 24) from Archipelago Marine Research’s 

analysis of 27 hauling video events. 

84 

0 

10 

20 

30 

40 

50 

60 

70 

80 

90 

100 

Roll

0 

20 

40 

60 

80 

100 

120 

140 

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180 

er 1 Roller 2 Roller 2.5 Roller 5 

Percentage of Seabirds Identified 

Maximum Recording Capacity 

(hours) 

Deck 1 Deck 1 Deck 1.5 Deck 2 

Cameras' Recording Frame Rates (seconds) 

Correctly Identified Seabirds Recording Time 

Figure 32. Relationship between correctly identified seabirds and the increase in recording frame 

rates. There is an inverse relative between recording frame rate and maximum 

recording capacity. 

85 

Number of Idividuals 

8 

7 

6 

5 

4 

3 

2 

1 

0 

above average average below average don't know 

Seabird Identification Ability 

Figure 33. Self rating by NMFS seminar participants on their personal seabird identification 

abilities. 

86 

APPENDIX 1 

Method of Securing Test Seabirds to the Longline Gear 

On the F/V Heritage, albatross were attached by securing their bodies to the line at two 

locations. The first method involved threading a hook through the bird’s bill, and then closing 

the bill firmly with a plastic zip strap. The second method involved wrapping the bird's body 

with 22.7 kg test monofilament fishing line. The fishing line was wrapped tightly around the 

body at the base of the wings and the neck, and then tied to the eye of a gangion. The smaller 

shearwaters were attached in two places as well. On two sets, the small birds were hooked 

through the bill, and then the body was wrapped in a similar fashion to the albatross. On another 

two sets, the shearwaters were hooked by threading the line through the bird’s eye, and then the 

body was wrapped. In the remaining 23 shearwater sets, the shearwaters were hooked through 

the wing. The halibut hook was first threaded through the middle wing joint, and then the monofilament line was threaded through the same hole and tied from the wing to the eye of the 

gangion. Aboard the F/V Pacific Sun, frozen seabirds were attached to the line gear by wrapping 

their wings or their necks around the gangion with either duct tape or electrical tape. All of the 

albatross were secured to the line gear by taping their necks to a gangion. The 18 shearwaters 

were attached to the line by taping their necks to the gangion; the final 10 were secured by taping 

their wings to the gangion and hook. 

87 

 

APPENDIX 2 

Basic Statistics of Fishing Effort and Catch 

The Statement of Work between the NMFS and IPHC requires the report to provide 

information on catch and effort. For the duration of the project there were no incidentally caught 

seabirds. Thus, no seabirds were returned to NMFS. On both vessels, with EMS units, a third 

sea-sampler was added to the standard IPHC staff solely for the purposes of the project. The seasamplers were responsible for recording the hook status including identifying and recording all 

invertebrates and vertebrates caught during gear retrieval. 

IPHC 20-Hook Counts 

Five skates of standardized gear were set at each station, each at 1,800 feet in length and fitted 

with 100 hooks. These hook densities were maintained to an accuracy of within 95% for the 

duration of the charters. Eighteen-foot spacing separated each of the 24-48 inch gangions. 

Number 3 (16/0) circle hooks were tied to each gangion and they were baited with 0.25-0.33 

pounds of chum salmon. A 5-pound weight was tied between each of the skates. Gear was set 

after 0500 h, and then hauled after a minimum 5-hour soak. For more information concerning 

the gear specifications and procedures used during the survey see IPHC (2002). 

During gear retrieval, the two samplers identified and recorded the species caught on the first 

20-hooks of each skate, for a total of 100 hooks per station. On the 20-hook count all species of 

vertebrates and invertebrates, as well as bait, skin, empty and missing hooks were recorded. The 

IPHC bycatch species-sampling protocol did not include species weights. Tables 1 and 2 

provide information on the number of animals caught on the 20-hook counts by vessel and by 

IPHC regulatory area. In addition, catch data from the 20-hook counts were extrapolated up to 

the full number of set hooks per station, and these results are also shown. 

Retained Catch 

The amount of Pacific halibut landed from the 2002 assessment surveys by IPHC Areas 4A, 

4D and 4B, and by vessel are found in Table 3. The amount of bycatch landed during the 2002 

surveys by vessel and by IPHC area are found in Table 4. Only marketable bycatch of good 

quality are retained during the IPHC surveys. Therefore, Table 4 does not necessarily represent 

the total amount of bycatch caught. In addition, all Pacific halibut and bycatch fish weights are 

calculated by the plants during offload. 

89 

Table 1. F/V Heritage 20-hook counts and species extrapolation by IPHC regulatory area. 

Species 

Common and Scientific Name Data 4A 4B 4D Grand Total 

Alaska skate Sum of extrapolated numbers 426 547 973 

Bathyraja pariferma Sum of observed numbers 86 110 196 

Aleutian skate Sum of extrapolated numbers 129 5 364 497 

Bathyraja aleutica Sum of observed numbers 26 1 73 100 

Arrowtooth flounder Sum of extrapolated numbers 267 25 79 371 

Atheresthes stomias Sum of observed numbers 53 5 16 74 

Bering skate Sum of extrapolated numbers 35 35 

Bathyraja interrupta Sum of observed numbers 7 7 

Brown king crab Sum of extrapolated numbers 5 5 

Lithodes aequispina Sum of observed numbers 1 1 

Commander skate Sum of extrapolated numbers 10 10 

Bathyraja lindbergi Sum of observed numbers 2 2 

Unidentified coral Sum of extrapolated numbers 156 156 

Order Scleractinia Sum of observed numbers 31 31 

Dusky rockfish Sum of extrapolated numbers 15 15 

Sebastes ciliatus Sum of observed numbers 3 3 

Flathead sole Sum of extrapolated numbers 5 5 

Hippoglossoides elassodon Sum of observed numbers 1 1 

Golden skate Sum of extrapolated numbers 35 35 

Bathyraja smirnovi Sum of observed numbers 7 7 

Great sculpin Sum of extrapolated numbers 5 10 10 25 

Myoxocephalus polyacanthocephalus Sum of observed numbers 1 2 2 5 

Greenland turbot Sum of extrapolated numbers 246 101 253 600 

Reinhardtius hippoglossoides Sum of observed numbers 49 20 51 120 

Grenadier (rattails) Sum of extrapolated numbers 315 321 287 923 

Family Macrouridae Sum of observed numbers 63 64 58 185 

Jellyfish Sum of extrapolated numbers 5 5 

Class Scyphozoa Sum of observed numbers 1 1 

Kamchatka flounder Sum of extrapolated numbers 139 50 190 

Atheresthes evermanni Sum of observed numbers 28 10 38 

Misc Sum of extrapolated numbers 20 10 30 

Sum of observed numbers 4 2 6 

Northern rockfish Sum of extrapolated numbers 5 5 

Sebastes polyspinis Sum of observed numbers 1 1 

Unidentified Octopus Sum of extrapolated numbers 15 5 20 

Order Octopoda Sum of observed numbers 3 1 4 

Pacific cod Sum of extrapolated numbers 1,646 747 2,095 4,489 

Gadus macrocephalus Sum of observed numbers 331 149 422 902 

Pacific halibut Sum of extrapolated numbers 1,378 908 2,703 4,989 

Hippoglossus stenolepis Sum of observed numbers 276 181 542 999 

Red Irish lord Sum of extrapolated numbers 5 5 

Hemilepidotus hemilepidotus Sum of observed numbers 1 1 

Rougheye rockfish Sum of extrapolated numbers 25 5 30 

Sebastes aleutianus Sum of observed numbers 5 1 6 

Sablefish (black cod) Sum of extrapolated numbers 84 61 30 175 

Anoplopoma fimbria Sum of observed numbers 17 12 6 35 

90 

Table 1. (cont’d) F/V Heritage 20-hook counts and species extrapolation by IPHC regulatory 

area. 

Species Data 4A 4B 4D Grand Total Common and Scientific Name 

Sea anemone Sum of extrapolated numbers 5 30 35 

Order Actinaria Sum of observed numbers 1 6 7 

Sea cucumber Sum of extrapolated numbers 5 5 10 

Class Holothuroidea Sum of observed numbers 1 1 2 

Sea pen Sum of extrapolated numbers 10 10 

Class Anthozoa Sum of observed numbers 2 2 

Shells Sum of extrapolated numbers 20 5 25 

Sum of observed numbers 4 1 5 

Shortraker rockfish Sum of extrapolated numbers 30 15 15 60 

Sebastes borealis Sum of observed numbers 6 3 3 12 

Shortspine thornyhead rockfish Sum of extrapolated numbers 131 131 

Sebastolobus alascanus Sum of observed numbers 26 26 

Skate egg cases Sum of extrapolated numbers 10 5 15 

Sum of observed numbers 2 1 3 

Unidentified skates Sum of extrapolated numbers 109 291 235 635 

Order Rajifomes Sum of observed numbers 22 58 47 127 

Sleeper sharks Sum of extrapolated numbers 40 100 139 

Somniosus pacificus Sum of observed numbers 8 20 28 

Sponge Sum of extrapolated numbers 70 70 

Phylum Porifera Sum of observed numbers 14 14 

Starfish Sum of extrapolated numbers 20 70 69 159 

Class Stelleroidea Sum of observed numbers 4 14 14 32 

Unidentified thornyhead rockfish Sum of extrapolated numbers 15 20 36 

Unidentified Sebastolobus Sum of observed numbers 3 4 7 

Unidentified flatfish Sum of extrapolated numbers 45 64 15 125 

Order Pleuronectiformes Sum of observed numbers 9 13 3 25 

Unidentified rockfish Sum of extrapolated numbers 10 10 

Family Scorpaenidae Sum of observed numbers 2 2 

Unidentified roundfish Sum of extrapolated numbers 5 5 

Class Osteichthyes Sum of observed numbers 1 1 

Walleye pollock Sum of extrapolated numbers 46 5 39 91 

Theragra chalcogramma Sum of observed numbers 9 1 8 18 

Whiteblotched skate Sum of extrapolated numbers 463 330 630 1,423 

Bathyraja maculata Sum of observed numbers 93 66 126 285 

Yellow Irish lord Sum of extrapolated numbers 106 106 

Hemilepidotus jordani Sum of observed numbers 21 21 

Sum of extrapolated numbers 5,429 3,639 7,603 16,671 

Sum of observed numbers 1,089 725 1,528 3,342 

91 

Table 2. F/V Pacific Sun 20-hook counts and species extrapolation by IPHC regulatory area. 

Species Data 4B Grand Total Common and Scientific Name 

Alaska skate Sum of extrapolated numbers 356 356 

Bathyraja pariferma Sum of observed numbers 72 72 

Aleutian skate Sum of extrapolated numbers 84 84 

Bathyraja aleutica Sum of observed numbers 17 17 

Arrowtooth flounder Sum of extrapolated numbers 145 145 

Atheresthes stomias Sum of observed numbers 29 29 

Brown king crab Sum of extrapolated numbers 5 5 

Lithodes aequispina Sum of observed numbers 1 1 

Unidentified coral Sum of extrapolated numbers 64 64 

Order Scleractinia Sum of observed numbers 13 13 

Eelpout Sum of extrapolated numbers 5 5 

Family Zoarcidae Sum of observed numbers 1 1 

Great sculpin Sum of extrapolated numbers 5 5 

Myoxocephalus polyacanthocephalus Sum of observed numbers 1 1 

Greenland turbot Sum of extrapolated numbers 83 83 

Reinhardtius hippoglossoides Sum of observed numbers 17 17 

Grenadier (rattails) Sum of extrapolated numbers 105 105 

Family Macrouridae Sum of observed numbers 23 23 

Kamchatka flounder Sum of extrapolated numbers 127 127 

Atheresthes evermanni Sum of observed numbers 26 26 

Unidentified octopus Sum of extrapolated numbers 30 30 

Order Octopoda Sum of observed numbers 6 6 

Pacific cod Sum of extrapolated numbers 1,055 1,055 

Gadus macrocephalus Sum of observed numbers 214 214 

Pacific halibut Sum of extrapolated numbers 1,336 1,336 

Hippoglossus stenolepis Sum of observed numbers 270 270 

Red king crab Sum of extrapolated numbers 15 15 

Paralithodes camtschatica Sum of observed numbers 3 3 

Sablefish (Black cod) Sum of extrapolated numbers 225 225 

Anoplopoma fimbria Sum of observed numbers 46 46 

Sea anemone Sum of extrapolated numbers 10 10 

Order Actinaria Sum of observed numbers 2 2 

Sea urchin Sum of extrapolated numbers 29 29 

Class Echinoidea Sum of observed numbers 6 6 

Searcher Sum of extrapolated numbers 5 5 

Bathymaster signatus Sum of observed numbers 1 1 

Sum of extrapolated numbers 66 66 Shells Sum of observed numbers 13 13 

Shortraker rockfish Sum of extrapolated numbers 40 40 

Sebastes borealis Sum of observed numbers 8 8 

Shortspine thornyhead rockfish Sum of extrapolated numbers 60 60 

Sebastolobus alascanus Sum of observed numbers 12 12 

Skate egg cases Sum of extrapolated numbers 10 10 

Sum of observed numbers 2 2 

92 

Table 2. (cont’d) F/V Pacific Sun 20-hook counts and species extrapolation by IPHC 

regulatory area. 

Species 

Common and Scientific Name Data 4B Grand Total 

Unidentified skates Sum of extrapolated numbers 31 31 

Order Rajifomes Sum of observed numbers 6 6 

Sleeper sharks Sum of extrapolated numbers 15 15 

Somniosus pacificus Sum of observed numbers 3 3 

Sponge Sum of extrapolated numbers 96 96 

Phylum Porifera Sum of observed numbers 19 19 

Unidentified rockfish Sum of extrapolated numbers 39 39 

Family Scorpaenidae Sum of observed numbers 8 8 

Walleye pollock Sum of extrapolated numbers 16 16 

Theragra chalcogramma Sum of observed numbers 3 3 

Whiteblotched skate Sum of extrapolated numbers 456 456 

Bathyraja maculata Sum of observed numbers 92 92 

Yellow Irish lord Sum of extrapolated numbers 856 856 

Hemilepidotus jordani Sum of observed numbers 173 173 

Sum of extrapolated numbers 5,463 5,463 

Sum of observed numbers 1,106 1,106 

Table 3. Catch (net pounds) of halibut by IPHC regulatory areas and by vessel from the IPHC 

2002 assessment survey. 

IPHC Regulatory Area Charter Vessel Pacific halibut (lbs.) 

4A F/V Heritage 21,252 

4B F/V Heritage 23,324 

4B F/V Pacific Sun 26,622 

4D F/V Heritage 59,955 

Table 4. Landings1

 of other species2 from the IPHC 2002 assessment survey by regulatory 

area, vessel and species. 

IPHC Regulatory Area Charter Vessel Pacific cod (lbs.) 

4A F/V Heritage 7,338 

4B F/V Heritage 0 

4B F/V Pacific Sun 2,753 

4D F/V Heritage 2,361 1

Net weights are reported as weighed at the fish plant. 

2

Only marketable bycatch of good quality are retained during the IPHC surveys. 

93 

RECENT TECHNICAL MEMORANDUMS


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147 MCELDERRY, H., J. SCHRADER, D. MCCULLOUGH, J. ILLINGWORTH, S. FITZGERALD, and S. 

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146 WING, B. L., and D. R. BARNARD. 2004. A field guide to Alaskan corals, 67 p. NTIS No. PB2005-100429. 

145 RUGH, D. J., B. A. MAHONEY, and B. K. SMITH. 2004. Aerial surveys of beulga whales in Cook Inlet, 

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144 ANGLISS, R. A., and K. L. LODGE. 2004. Alaska marine mammal stock assessments, 2003, 224 p. 

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143 ZENGER, H. H. JR. 2004. Data report: 2002 Aleutian Islands bottom trawl survey, 247 p. NTIS No. 

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142 STEVENSON, D. E. 2004. Identification of skates, sculpins, and smelts by observers in North Pacific 

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141 HOFF, G. R., and L. L. BRITT. 2003. The 2002 eastern Bering Sea upper continental slope survey of 

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140 STONE, R. P., and M. M. MASUDA. 2003. Characteristics of benthic sediments from areas open and 

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of fish assemblages in eelgrass and kelp habitats of southeastern Alaska, 39 p. NTIS No. PB2004­

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138 PEREZ, M. A. 2003. Compilation of marine mammal incidental take data from the domestic and joint 

venture groundfish fisheries in the U.S. EEZ of the North Pacific, 1989-2001, 145 p. NTIS No. PB2004­

100649 

137 MASELKO, J. M., A. C. WERTHEIMER, and J. F. THEDINGA. 2003. Selection and application of a markand-recapture technique for estimating pink salmon escapements, 44 p. NTIS No. PB2003-107101.