Highlights Radarsat observations of vessels in the Bering Sea have demonstrated ability to detect commercial fishing vessels, their location, heading, and fishing activity. Radarsat observations of Bering Sea fishing vessels, when combined with undersea acoustic signature data, has shown enhanced capability to determine vessel characteristics. U.S. Coast Guard, 17th District Office, prepared to participate as a partner with NOAA in a Bering Sea Radarsat demonstration project to assess the operational utility of satellite-based radar as a surveillance tool for illegal fishing activities. Observations of salmon habitat damage in western Idaho with Radarsat is not encouraging-steep terrain precludes imaging of key streams and creeks. ADRO project joined by other government agencies to conduct an enhanced experiment to detect simulated high seas pelagic driftnets using both Radarsat observations and other space-based microwave and optical remote sensing systems.
Results appear encouraging.
Related Publications D.R. Montgomery, W. Pichel, P. Clemente-Colon. SAR Experiments in Support of Fisheries Enforcement Applications. D.R. Montgomery, W. Pichel, P. Clemente-Colon. The Use of Satellite-Based SAR in Support of Fisheries Enforcement Applications. 27th International Symposium on Remote Sensing of Environment, Tromso, Norway.