The U.S. also proposed similar measures in the waters of Alaska. We believe that the United States should require similar measures, modifed as necessary to take into account potential differences that may exist between regions and fisheries, for use by longliners in Hawaiian waters. As noted in the IUCN Resolution, the mortalities of species such as albatrosses are cause for particular concern as they have delayed maturity and very low reproduction, with some species producing only one offspring every two years. Some species of albatross, such as the Black-footed Albatross, have suffered serious declines in their populations. We urge you to adopt the following avoidance techniques for U.S. fisheries in the waters of Hawaii.
Weighted lines increase the sink rate of bait, reducing bait loss to seabirds.
The dumping of offal should be avoided while longlines are being set or retrieved. Every effort should be made to ensure that birds captured alive during longline operations are released alive, and that wherever possible, hooks are removed without jeopardizing the life of the birds. A streamer line designed to discourage birds from settling on baits during deployment of longlines should be towed. Details of construction relating to the number and placement of swivels may be varied so long as the effective sea surface covered by the streamers is no less than that covered by the currently specified design. Details of the device dragged in the water to create tension in the line may also be varied.