Annex B. Fisheries Study

Transcription

1 Annex B Fisheries Study

2 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT FOR NAMIBIA 3D SEISMIC SURVEY FOR BLOCKS 2913A & 2914B (PEL 39) FISHERIES STUDY Prepared for: ERM (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd Prepared by: CapFish Date: July 2014 Contact Details: David Japp CapFish P.O. Box 50035, Waterfront Cape Town, 8002 South Africa Tel: , Fax:

3 CONTENTS 1 INTRODUCTION LOCATION PROPOSED SEISMIC SURVEY 2 2 APPROACH AND METHODOLOGY SCOPE OF WORK ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY SIGNIFICANCE CRITERIA 4 3 DESCRIPTION OF THE BASELINE ENVIRONMENT OVERVIEW OF THE NAMIBIAN FISHERIES DETAILS FOR SECTORS OPERATING WITHIN OR NEAR TO THE SURVEY AREA SMALL PELAGIC PURSE-SEINE MID-WATER TRAWL DEMERSAL TRAWL DEMERSAL LONG-LINE LARGE PELAGIC LONG-LINE TUNA POLE AND LINE DEEP-SEA CRAB DEEP-WATER TRAWL ROCK LOBSTER LINE-FISH OTHER FISHERIES FISHERIES RESEARCH 34 4 IMPACT ASSESSMENT FISHING IMPACTS IDENTIFIED ASSESSMENT OF IMPACTS MITIGATION OF IMPACTS ON FISHING 38 5 ASSUMPTIONS AND LIMITATIONS DATA SOURCES 40 6 CONCLUSION 41 7 REFERENCES 43

4 1 INTRODUCTION Shell Namibia Upstream B.V. (hereafter referred to as Shell), a subsidiary of Royal Dutch Shell, recently acquired a 90% controlling interest in deepwater Petroleum Exploration License 39 (PEL39) offshore from Namibia, consisting of two offshore blocks 2913A and 2914B. During the course of Shell plans to undertake a three-dimensional (3D) seismic acquisition programme within these blocks covering an area of approximately 2500km². This will provide Shell with 3D data of the geological sub-structure below the ocean floor and will be used to make a decision whether to continue with exploration drilling during subsequent phases of the project. 1.1 LOCATION The proposed seismic acquisition will occur in the north-eastern portion of the PEL39 licence area, situated approximately 170 to 350km off the coast of Namibia and directly north of the existing Shell operated Orange Basin Deepwater Block in South Africa (Figure 1.1). The license area covers km 2 with water depths ranging from 300m to 3000m. The nearest settlement to the license area is Oranjemund (~170km to the north-east), with the closest major ports being Lüderitz and Walvis Bay. Figure 1.1 Location of Proposed Survey (survey area in green) Source: Pisces Environmental,

5 1.2 PROPOSED SEISMIC SURVEY A detailed project description and operational requirements for the proposed 3D seismic survey are provided in Chapter 2 of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Report Update. 2

6 2 APPROACH AND METHODOLOGY 2.1 SCOPE OF WORK The scope of work for this study included gathering fisheries information for the compilation of a desktop fisheries baseline and impact assessment report for the PEL 39 licence area and immediate surroundings (i.e. the area of influence). The detailed scope of work for the study included the following: To undertake a fisheries study and impact assessment for the proposed 3D seismic acquisition programme in the PEL 39 licence area offshore of the Namibian coast. To provide a detailed description of the fisheries sector within and around the 3D survey area (which includes possible turning or manoeuvring areas), including subsistence, recreational and commercial fishing activities. Specific baseline information shall include: o An overview of Namibian and South African (if relevant) fisheries sector; o Key spawning areas for key commercial species; o Commercial catch and effort data, seasonal trends and the estimated monthly value of relevant fisheries catch; o Fishing gear used; and o Seasonality. To describe seasonal variations for fisheries sectors. To identify and assess the spatial and temporal fishing catch and effort on a fishery-specific basis to estimate the likely impact of the seismic exploration activities on fisheries within the area of influence (AoI). To identify, describe and assess the significance of potential impacts of the proposed exploration activities on the fisheries sector. To identify practicable mitigation measures to reduce any negative impacts identified. The information from this study is intended to inform the EIA update process through providing fisheries baseline data for the licence area and surrounds, an export opinion report on the relevant fisheries sectors including proposed mitigation measures to be implemented to manage/mitigate potential impacts of the proposed exploration activities. 3

7 2.2 ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY The proposed Project s potential significant impacts on commercial fishing are evaluated in this study. In order to assess potential impacts to commercial fishing in accordance with the significance criteria listed below, the following information was considered: The proposed time of year and duration for the survey (commencing early October or November for 50 days); Fishing activity in the survey area, as represented by MFMR data and related sources; The survey area and footprint of the proposed survey track lines, turning circles, run-ins and run-outs; Survey activity proposed, including mobilisation and demobilisation, as described in Chapter 2 of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Update Report (Project Description); Embedded controls (eg appointing a fisheries liaison officer (FLO) on board the seismic vessel) that could reduce the potential effects of the Project; and Literature addressing effects of seismic survey activity on fish and fisheries. The analysis was focused on the marine portions of the Project and the effects caused by preclusion (i.e. prohibiting fishing in the area during the survey), short-term effects on fish resulting in reduced catch, and the potential for longer-term effects on fishing resulting from harm to fish populations. This portion of the analysis relied on findings discussed in the Impact Assessment Chapter. The shore-based activities of the Project were not considered to be applicable for assessing impacts to commercial fishing and were not included in this analysis. It was then determined whether the effect on commercial fishing would be significant. The significance criteria described below were applied to the effects to determine whether the effects were significant, and whether Mitigation Measures were required to avoid or reduce significant impacts. Note that where it is deemed that a fishery does not overlap with the proposed survey area, the IA was not applied. 2.3 SIGNIFICANCE CRITERIA An impact on commercial fishing would be considered significant and would require additional mitigation if the Project would cause any of the following to occur: Result in the short-term loss of greater than 10 percent of the area fished for a commercial species; 4

8 Result in precluding 10 percent or more of a type of fishing activity for all or most of a fishing season; Alter the seafloor in such a manner as to reduce the availability of that area to commercial trawling or other commercial gear types; or Result in a significant impact to the essential habitat for a managed species as listed in Table 3.1 below. 5

9 3 DESCRIPTION OF THE BASELINE ENVIRONMENT 3.1 OVERVIEW OF THE NAMIBIAN FISHERIES Supported by the high productivity of the Benguela upwelling ecosystem, abundant fish stocks typify Namibian waters. Fish resources in upwelling systems are typically high in biomass and relatively low in diversity (relative to non-upwelling environments). Commercial fish stocks, as found in the Benguela system typically support intensive commercial fisheries. Although varying in importance at different times in history, Namibian fisheries have focused on demersal species, small pelagic species, large migratory pelagic fish, linefish (caught both commercially and recreationally) and crustacean resources (e.g. lobster and crabs). The main commercial fisheries, targeted species and gear types are shown in Table 3.1 and recent Total Allowable Catches (TACs) are presented in Table 3.2 below: Table 3.1 List of commercial fisheries that operate within Namibian waters, targeted species and gear types used 1. Fishery Gear Type Targeted Species Sardine (Sardinops ocellatus) Small pelagic purse-seine Purse-seine Horse mackerel (Trachurus capensis) Mid-water trawl Mid-water trawl Horse mackerel (Trachurus capensis) Demersal trawl Demersal long-line Demersal trawl Demersal long-line Cape hakes (Merluccius paradoxus, M. capensis) Monkfish (Lophius vomerinus) Cape hakes (Merluccius paradoxus, M. capensis) Large pelagic long-line Pelagic long-line Albacore tuna (Thunnus alalunga), Yellowfin tuna (T. albacares), Bigeye tuna (T. obesus), Swordfish (Xiphias gladius) & Shark spp. Tuna pole Pole and line Albacore tuna Deep-sea crab Demersal long-line Red crab (Chaceon maritae) trap Deep-water trawl Deep-sea trawl Orange roughy (Hoplostethus atlanticus) and Alfonsino (Beryx splendens) Rock Lobster Line-fish Trap Line Rock lobster (Jasus lalandii) Silver kob (Argyrosomus inodorus), Dusky kob (A. coronus) 1 Refer to MFMR Web site Note also that this web site does not provide the most recent information and that we use direct communication with the researchers and fishing industry to get updates on Catch and effort, vessel lists and allowable catches. Refer also to the 2013 Fishing Industry Handbook (Namibian Sector) 41 st Edition George Warman Publications, Rondebosch, Cape Town. The statistics section provides information only to 2010 on vessels and fishing rights 6

10 Table 3.2 Total Allowable Catches (tons) from 2009 to 2013 (supplied by Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources, Namibia) Year Pilchard Hake Horse Mackerel Crab Rock Lobster Monk Note: Deepwater trawl TAC is currently not applied for Alfonsino and Orange roughy. There is no TAC (output control) for albacore tuna this is an effort (input) controlled sector with no restriction on catch. The distribution patterns for the above-mentioned stocks are summarised as follows: The sardine stock ranges along the entire Namibian coast, but in recent years predominantly from 25ºS northwards to southern Angola, inshore of the 200m bathymetric contour. This fishery collapsed in the 1960 s and currently the fishery status remains overexploited with a limited distribution pattern The southern border of this range is demarcated by the Lüderitz upwelling front, a region of cold, upwelled water located off the port of Lüderitz. Historically, spawning occurred continuously from September to April with two seasonal peaks evident. The first from October to December in an inshore area between Walvis Bay and Palgrave Point and the second from February to March near the 200m isobath between Palgrave Point and Cape Frio (King, 1977). Since the collapse of the sardine stock, spawning in the south has decreased (Crawford et al in Boyer & Hampton, 2001). Horse mackerel occurs predominantly north of 25ºS with juveniles present in the inshore regions up to the 200m isobath and adult horse mackerel populations extending into waters up to 500m deep. Biomass estimates in this region are mostly low in summer and higher in winter and early spring. Abundance of horse mackerel is therefore higher at these times and increases availability of the species to the fisheries exploiting them. Fishing for Cape horse mackerel would therefore be favourable in the months June to November when higher catch rates are expected. Spawning is heaviest in the north between October and March (O Toole 1977). Albacore tuna, yellowfin tuna, bigeye tuna, shark and swordfish are large pelagic species with an extensive offshore distribution ranging along the entire Namibian coastline. The abundance of these species has a strong seasonal signal resulting in increased availability to the fisheries targeting them at different periods. For albacore tuna, availability increases from the last trimester (summer) and peaks in the first trimester (late summer to early autumn). Baitboats using pole and line target albacore tuna primarily in southern Namibia in the first trimester (January to March). For the pelagic longline sector targeting yellowfin 7

11 tuna, bigeye tuna and swordfish, the availability of these target species is highest in the second and third trimesters. It is important to note that weather conditions play an important role in operations within the tuna fisheries (pole and line and longline). With the onset of summer there is cold water upwelling as a result of increasing south-easterly winds. The availability of longfin tuna is associated with this increased biological activity and bait fish (sardine and anchovy) abundance. The longline tuna fishing season peaks two to three months later than the fishery for albacore tuna. Hake is the most commercially important Namibian fishery. Within the Namibian Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) the hake stock extends along the entire shelf and slope between the 100m and 1000m isobaths. Hake spawn and recruit throughout the year with peaks in spawning thought to occur in early summer (Botha 1980, Olivar et al. 1988) along the shelf break off central Namibia. Monkfish is found along the entire extent of the Namibian coast, with the fishery concentrated between 17º15'S and 29º30'S at depths of 200m to 500m. Spawning is irregular and variable and is thought to occur throughout the year (Macpherson 1985) with two separate areas of recruitment recorded between the 100m and 300m isobaths off Walvis Bay and Lüderitz (Leslie and Grant 1990). Deep-sea red crab stocks are distributed predominantly from 23º35'S northwards into Angola within a depth range of approximately 300m to 1000m. Spawning takes place throughout the year (Le Roux 1997) on the shallower waters of the continental slope with adult females generally occurring at shallower depths to that of males. Orange roughy has a discontinuous pattern of distribution along the continental slope with concentrations of fish within four known spawning grounds (or Quota Management Areas) within the Namibian EEZ. The species has a short, intense spawning period of about a month from July to August (Boyer and Hampton 2001). Aggregations are dense at these times although the fishery has been closed in recent years due to overexploitation of the stock(s). Rock lobster is found from 25ºS to 28º30'S in water depths shallower than 100m. The depth distribution of adults varies seasonally in response to changes in concentrations of dissolved oxygen in the water. Adults moult during spring (males) and late autumn/early winter (females), with egg hatching peaking in October/November. Fishing activity is greatest over January and February with the number of active vessels declining towards the end of the fishing season in May. 8

12 With regard to the areas where commercial fisheries operate, the fishing grounds of four commercial sectors have been identified as distinctly overlapping the proposed 3D survey area (inclusive of the likely area of operation around the proposed acquisition area i.e. vessel turning circles, runins and run-outs). The demersal trawl, demersal long-line, pelagic long-line and tuna pole fisheries are identified as being active within the proposed survey area and are discussed further in Section 3.2 below. Namibia has only two major fishing ports from which all the main commercial fishing operations are based namely, Walvis Bay and Lüderitz. In central Namibia, the major port is Walvis Bay and it is from here that the majority of fishing vessels operate. Most of the fishing conducted from this port is, for economic and logistical reasons, directed at fishing grounds in the central and northern part of Namibia and to a lesser extent the southerly fishing grounds towards the South African border. A significant amount of fishing activity also takes place from Lüderitz, from where hake trawlers and longliners operate as well as a small rock lobster fishery based in southern Namibian waters. There are currently 116 Namibian-registered commercial fishing vessels. The dominant fleet comprises demersal trawlers that include both large freezer vessels (up to m in length) as well as a smaller fleet of monk trawlers. These vessels fish year round, with the exception of a one month closed season in October, and range the length of the Namibian EEZ. There is a 200m fishing depth restriction (ie no bottom trawling permitted shallower than 200m). Prior to Namibian independence in 1990, a much larger fleet of trawlers existed, however Namibia now exercises strict effort control and vessel size limits. The only other fleets of significance are the midwater trawlers that target horse mackerel and the large pelagic tuna vessels. The midwater fleet was historically uncontrolled and comprised of many large industrial vessels mostly of eastern origin (Ukranian and Russian). Currently these large vessels (mostly >100m in length) operate in the northern waters of Namibia and are restricted to fewer than 20 vessels. The large pelagic (tunas and shark) vessels operate extensively in Namibian waters, concentrating in the south near the South African border when the migrations of albacore and yellowfin tuna pass through. The numbers of these vessels varies frequently and is dependent on the availability of fish. The tuna pole (baitboat) vessels are a small fleet and also increase in numbers depending on the number of licenses issues to South African boats. The tuna longliners are also variable with the number of licenses issued to both Namibian flags and others (mostly Asian boats) fluctuating annually. The extent and number of these vessels is difficult to ascertain (as they are unpublished), although the actual numbers are limited and are less than the numbers of licensed Namibian boats. There are few known foreign fishing vessels licensed to fish in Namibian waters although the majority of the current midwater fleet have permits to fish under foreign flag registration, but as a rule all licensed fishers must reflag under Namibia. There is a possibility that licenses may have been issued to foreign tuna boats although these would be few in number and they 9

13 would be closely monitored by the Namibian compliance units and their Vessel Monitoring System (VMS) 3.2 DETAILS FOR SECTORS OPERATING WITHIN OR NEAR TO THE SURVEY AREA SMALL PELAGIC PURSE-SEINE The pelagic purse-seine fishery is based on the Namibian stock of Benguela sardine (Sardinops ocellatus) (also referred to as pilchard regionally), and small quantities of juvenile horse mackerel. Commencing in 1947, the sardine fishery was the largest by volume of fish landings in the Benguela ecosystem and was based from the port of Walvis Bay. The fishery grew rapidly until 1968 at which time the stock collapsed due primarily to overfishing. Fishing continued thereafter at a low level of effort, but the resource has not recovered. Namibia has permitted a small fishery to continue to operate with limited catch 1. It has since been reopened with a very low allowable catch (the 2013 TAC for pilchard was set at t). Recent TACs allocated for sardine are shown in Figure 3.1). Figure 3.1 Total Allowable Catch of sardine for the years 1991 to 2012 Source: MFMR The small pelagic fleet consists of approximately 30 wooden, glass-reinforced plastic and steel-hulled vessels ranging in length from 21m to 48m. The targeted species are surface-shoaling and once a shoal has been located the vessel will steam around it and encircle it with a large net, extending to a 1 NOTE : Namibia has issued a small TAC of sardine since independence to sustain the small pelagic sector and to allow land-based factory turnover. In addition they allow part of this catch to target juvenile horse mackerel. However in recent years the resource base has been unable to sustain even these minimal TACs and the fishery has been closed and reopened on an ad hoc basis depending on resource availability. 10

14 depth of 60 to 90m (see Figure 3.2). Netting walls surround aggregated fish, preventing them from escaping by diving downwards. These are surface nets framed by lines: a float line on top and lead line at the bottom. Once the shoal has been encircled the net is pursed, hauled in and the fish pumped on board into the hold of the vessel. It is important to note that after the net is deployed the vessel has no ability to manoeuvre until the net has been fully recovered on board and this may take up to 1.5 hours. Vessels usually operate overnight and return to offload their catch the following day. Figure 3.2 Typical Gear Configuration of a Pelagic Purse-Seine Vessel Targeting Small Pelagic Species Source: Historical fishing effort is shown in Figure 3.3, directed in the vicinity of Walvis Bay and Lüderitz predominantly inshore of the 200m isobath but extending to the 500m isobath. Recent biomass surveys have shown small aggregations of the stock mostly located inshore of the 200m isobath. It is stressed however that although the current extent of the stock distribution has effectively shrunk sink stock collapse, the historical distribution was throughout the Benguela system and stock rebuilding remains an objective of the management. As the proposed survey area is located offshore of the fishing grounds for small pelagic species there is no direct overlap between the proposed survey area and fishing grounds. As such, there is no indication that the survey would preclude fishing activities, however fishing grounds are located in the vicinity of the proposed survey area (17 km eastwards of the survey area) and it is recommended that the survey vessel avoids movement into water depths shallower than 500m. 11

15 Figure 3.3 Spatial Distribution of Purse-Seine Catch in the vicinity of PEL 39 and the proposed Survey Area MID-WATER TRAWL The Cape horse mackerel has the highest volume and catch of all Namibian fish stocks; however by economic value is the second highest contributor to the fishing industry behind the Cape hake fisheries. The TAC for horse mackerel was set at t in Horse mackerel are either converted to fishmeal or sold as frozen, whole product with landings for the year 2006 valued at N$800 million (MFMR unpublished data in Kirchner et al., 2010). The stock is caught by the mid-water trawl fishery (targeting adult horse mackerel) and pelagic purse-seine fishery (smaller quantities of juvenile horse mackerel). The target catch species is meso-pelagic (ie found at depths between 200m and 1000m above the sea floor) and shoals migrate vertically upwards through the water column between dusk and dawn. Mid-water trawlers exploit this behaviour (diurnal vertical migration) by adjusting the depth at which the net is towed (this typically varies from 400m to just below the water surface). The net itself does not come into contact with the seafloor (unlike demersal trawl gear) and towing speed is greater than that of demersal trawlers (between 4.8 and 6.8 knots). In 2013, 67 rights-holders were registered within the mid-water trawl fishery, with the duration of rights ranging from seven to 15 years. Of these, 12 companies have been in the industry a number of years. New right s holders 12

16 have been combined into 11 joint ventures, some of which have leased their quota to old right s holders; therefore, there are currently (2013) nine fishing operators in the sector. Sixteen vessels are licenced to trawl for horse-mackerel in Namibia. Of these, only one is Namibian-flagged, although a further eight are based permanently in Namibia 1. Figure 3.4 Spatial Distribution of Mid-Water Trawl Effort within the Namibian EEZ. 1 There is a recent report that a new Chinese vessel and license holder has been permitted in this fishery as yet unconfirmed. 13

17 The mid-water trawl fleet operates exclusively out of the port of Walvis Bay and fishing grounds extend north of 25ºS to the border of Angola. Juvenile Cape horse mackerel move into deeper water when mature and are fished mostly between the 200m and 500m isobaths towards the shelf break (see Figure 3.4). As the fishery operates some 500km north of the proposed survey area, there is no area of overlap between the two sectors DEMERSAL TRAWL A fleet of approximately 100 Namibian-registered bottom trawlers operate within Namibian waters primarily targeting hake. Main by-catch species include monkfish (Lophius spp.), kingklip (Genypterus capensis) and snoek (Thyrsites atun). The directed hake trawl fishery is Namibia s most valuable fishery with a current annual hake TAC of t (2013/14) recent TACs for hake and monkfish are shown in Figure 3.5. The fishery is active yearround except for a closed period during October each year. The fishery has recorded an average annual effort of approximately hake-directed trawling hours per year (between 2004 and 2009). Figure 3.5 Total Allowable Catch set for Hake and Monkfish from 1991 to Source: MFMR The deep-sea fleet is divided into wet-fish and freezer vessels which differ in terms of the capacity for the processing of fish offshore (freezers process at sea and wet-fish vessel land fish at factories ashore for processing) and in terms of vessel size and capacity (shaft power of kW). Wet-fish vessels have an average length of 45m, are generally smaller than freezer vessels which may be up to 90m in length. Whilst freezer vessels may work in an area for up to a month at a time, wet-fish vessels may only remain in an area for about a week before returning to port (catch is retained on ice). The majority of trawlers operate from the port of Walvis Bay, with fewer vessel operating from Lüderitz. 14

18 Trawl gear configurations are similar for both freezer and wet-fish vessels, the main elements of which are trawl warps, bridles and doors, a footrope, headrope, net and codend (see Figure 3.6). Generally, trawlers tow their gear at 3.5 knots for up to four hours per drag. When towing gear, the distance of the trawl net from the vessel is usually between two and three times the depth of the water. The horizontal net opening may be up to 50m in width and 10m in height. The swept area on the seabed between the doors may be up to 150m. The opening of the net is maintained by the vertical spread of the trawl doors, which are in contact with the seafloor. Typical demersal trawl gear configuration consists of: Steel warps up to 32mm diameter - in pairs up to 3km long when towed; A pair of trawl doors (500kg to 3t each); Net footropes which may have heavy steel bobbins attached (up to 24" diameter) as well as large rubber rollers ( rock-hoppers ); and Net mesh (diamond or square shape) is normally wide at the net opening whereas the bottom end of the net (or cod-end) has a 130mm stretched mesh. Figure 3.6 Schematic Diagram of Trawl Gear typically used by Deep-Sea Demersal Trawl Vessels. Source: Hake spawn and recruit throughout the year with peaks in spawning thought to occur in early summer and March along the shelf break off central Namibia. Fishing effort is relatively constant throughout the year except for a closure for the month of October and relatively lower levels of effort expended during November and December. Fishing grounds extend along the entire coastline following the distribution of hake and monkfish along the continental shelf between a depth range of 200m 15

19 and 850m (see Figure 3.7 and Figure 3.8), amounting to approximately km 2 of ground available to the fishery. Note that trawlers are prohibited from operating inshore of the 200m isobath. Figure 3.7 Spatial Distribution of Hake Catch recorded by the Demersal Trawl Fishery in relation to PEL39 and the proposed survey area. 16

20 Figure 3.8 Spatial Distribution of Monkfish Catch recorded by the Demersal Trawl Fishery in relation to PEL39 and the proposed survey area. The proposed survey area (including vessel safety zone and turning circles) overlaps approximately 360km 2 of km 2 hake-directed trawling ground available to the fishery (approximately 0.4%). The affected area lies between the 330m and 750m isobaths where, over the period 2005 to 2009, 0.14% (207 hours) of the total effort and 0.08% (74.8t) of the total hake catch was recorded per year. The nominal landings taken from the project area are continuous throughout the year but are relatively lower over the period September to December (including a closed month of October) DEMERSAL LONG-LINE Like the demersal trawl fishery the target species of this fishery is the Cape hakes, with a small non-targeted commercial by-catch that includes kingklip (1). The catch is landed predominantly as prime quality (PQ) hake for export to Europe. The catch is packed unfrozen on ice. Long-line vessels fish in similar areas targeted by the hake-directed trawling fleet, in a broad area extending from the 300m to 600m contour along the full length of the Namibian coastline. Some 18 boats are currently (2014) operating within the sector. Vessels based in Lüderitz mostly work South of 26 S towards the South Africa border while those based in Walvis Bay operate between 23 S and 26 S (1) Note: A new experimental demersal long-line fishery was recently established for kingklip. This fishery is expected to operate with three vessels mostly on the hard grounds in the south Namibian waters towards the South African border. No spatial and catch effort data are yet available. 17

21 and North of 23 S (refer to Figure 3.9 and Figure 3.10 for abundance of Cape hakes and monkfish). Operations are ad hoc and intermittent, subject to market demand. A total hake TAC of t was set for 2013/14 but less than t of this is caught by long-line vessels. A demersal long-line vessel may deploy either a double or single line which is weighted along it s length to keep it close to the seafloor (see Figure 3.9). Steel anchors, of 40 to 60kg are placed at the ends of each line to anchor it. These anchor positions are marked with an array of floats. If a double line system is used, top and bottom lines are connected by means of dropper lines. Since the top-line (polyethylene, 10 16mm diameter) is more buoyant than the bottom line, it is raised off the seafloor and minimizes the risk of snagging or fouling. The purpose of the top-line is to aid in gear retrieval if the bottom line breaks at any point along the length of the line. Lines are typically nautical miles in length. Baited hooks are attached to the bottom line at regular intervals (1 to 1.5m) by means of a snood. Gear is usually set at night at a speed of 5 9 knots. Once deployed the line is left to soak for up to eight hours before retrieval commences. A line hauler is used to retrieve gear (at a speed of approximately 1 knot) and can take six to ten hours to complete. During hauling operations the vessel s manoeuvrability is severely restricted. Long-line vessels are similar in size and power to wet-fish trawlers and may vary in length from 18m to 50m and remain at sea for four to seven days at a time. 18

22 Figure 3.9 Typical configuration of demersal (bottom-set) gear used within the demersal long-line fishery. Source: Demersal long-lining takes place along the entire Namibian coastline following the distribution of hake and kingklip along the continental shelf between a depth range of 200m and 600m. The spatial distribution of the Shallow-water and Deep-water hake catches by the demersal longline fishery fall outside of the proposed survey area (Figure 3.10 and Figure 3.11). There is however an area of overlap of the deep-water hake fishing grounds with the potential turning and manoeuvring areas of the survey vessel. The area of overlap is approximately 200km 2 or 0.2% of the total fishing area available to the demersal long-line sector (1). (1) Please note that, in the absence of demersal long-line data, the distribution of the demersal trawl sector has been used as an indicator of the spatial extent of the fishery as both target the same hake species. 19

23 Figure 3.10 Density of Shallow-Water Hake (Merluccius capensis; right) in relation to the Proposed Survey Area and PEL39. Figure 3.11 Density of Deep-Water Hake (M. paradoxus) in relation the Proposed Survey Area and PEL39. 20

24 3.2.5 LARGE PELAGIC LONG-LINE This sector utilises surface long-lines to target migratory pelagic species including yellowfin tuna (T. albacares), bigeye tuna (T. obesus), swordfish (Xiphias gladius) and various pelagic shark species. Commercial landings of these species by the fishery varies and can be as high as 6000t per annum. There is provision for up to 26 fishing rights and 40 vessels (see rights allocations on ( The actual number of long-line and tuna baitboat rights active in 2013/14 is however uncertain and the assumption should be a maximum of 40 vessels. Yellowfin tuna are distributed between 10ºS and 40ºS in the south Atlantic, and spawn in the central Atlantic off Brazil in the austral summer (Penney et al. 1992). According to Crawford et al. (1987) juvenile and immature yellowfin tuna occur throughout the year in the Benguela system. After reaching sexual maturity they migrate (in summer) from feeding grounds off the West Coast of southern Africa to the spawning grounds in the central Atlantic. Bigeye tuna occurs in the Atlantic between 45ºN and 45ºS. Spawning takes place in the Gulf of Guinea and in the eastern central Atlantic north of 5ºN and it is thought that bigeye tuna migrate to the Benguela system to feed. Swordfish spawn in warm tropical and subtropical waters and migrate to colder temperate waters during summer and autumn months. Figure 3.12 Typical pelagic long-line gear configuration targeting tuna, swordfish and shark species. Tuna are targeted at thermocline fronts, predominantly along and offshore of the shelf break. Pelagic long-line vessels set a drifting mainline, up to km in length, and are marked at intervals along its length with radio buoys (Dahn) and floats to facilitate later retrieval (see Figure 3.12). Various types of buoys are used in combinations to keep the mainline near the surface and locate it should the line be cut or break for any reason. Between radio buoys 21

25 the mainline is kept near the surface or at a certain depth by means of ridged hard-plastic buoys, (connected via a buoy-lines of approximately 20m to 30m). The buoys are spaced approximately 500m apart along the length of the mainline. Hooks are attached to the mainline on branch lines, (droppers), which are clipped to the mainline at intervals of 20m to 30m between the ridged buoys. The main line can consist of twisted tarred rope (6mm to 8mm diameter), nylon monofilament (5mm to 7.5mm diameter) or braided monofilament (~6mm in diameter). A line may be left drifting for up to 18 hours before retrieval by means of a powered hauler at a speed of approximately 1 knot. No detailed spatial reference is given to catches within this fishery but activity is widespread and may be expected offshore in waters deeper than 200m and mostly targeted on the shelf break between the 500m and 2000m isobaths. Of an estimated area of km 2 available to the fishery, the proposed survey area coincides with 7581km 2 or 1.5% of this area (extending from the 200m isobath to the outer limit of the 200nm EEZ). Effort in this sector should be compared also with the baitboat fishery as there are both spatial and temporal patterns associated with each fishery. Long-line vessels targeting pelagic tuna species and swordfish operate extensively around the entire coast along the shelf-break and into deeper waters (see Figure 3.13). The periods of highest tuna (yellowfin and bigeye) availability to the long-line fleet occurs from late autumn into winter and early summer (April to September) although lower levels of fishing effort can also be expected in early summer (fourth trimester) and late summer (first trimester). Figures 3.14 & 3.15 refer. 22

26 Average Decadal Catch (t) Figure 3.13 Spatial Distribution of Catch recorded by the Long-Line Fishery Targeting Large Pelagic Species in the Vicinity of the Proposed Survey Area (catch reported on 5 degree grids). Figure 3.14 Total nominal longline catch (t) seasonality of yellowfin tuna in Namibian waters for Chinese Taipei flagged vessels. Trimester 1 = January-March; T2 = April-June; T3 = July-September; T4 = October-December (ICCAT) Trimester of the Year

27 Average Decadal Catch (t) Figure 3.15 Total nominal longline catch (t) seasonality of yellowfin tuna in Namibian waters for combined Namibian and South African flagged vessels. Trimester 1 = January-March; T2 = April-June; T3 = July-September; T4 = October- December (ICCAT) Trimester of the Year TUNA POLE AND LINE Poling for tuna is predominantly based on the southern Atlantic albacore (longfin tuna) stock (T. alalunga) and a very small amount of skipjack tuna (Katsumonus pelamis), yellowfin tuna and bigeye tuna. The available records (provided by the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas ICCAT) are reported by Namibia for the whole EEZ and no detailed spatial catch and effort data is therefore available. Catches of albacore tuna for Namibia and South Africa apply to what is referred to as the Atlantic southern stock (ICCAT Statistical Bulletin 2012). Historically catches of albacore tuna caught by South Africa and Namibia combined was very low, increasing steadily to a peak in Since 2000, catches have declined. This is consistent with the catch rate index used by ICCAT based on other fleets. Nevertheless, ICCAT data show that fishing effort by the bait boat (tuna pole-and-line) in Namibia and South Africa has persistently increased despite declines in catch rates. Note that as albacore move between the two areas and are caught by many of the same boats from each country the reported fishing effort in Namibian and South African vessels should be used in combination for interpretation (Figure 3.16 for Namibia and Figure 3.17 for South Africa). For Namibian vessels the peak fishing period for albacore is in the first trimester tapering off from March. For South African vessels a similar trend is shown with peak effort in the first trimester, tapering off of effort from March, virtually zero effort in the third trimester (July, August and September) and increasing again from early summer (October to December). 24

28 Average Decadal Catch (t) Average Decadal Catch (t) Figure 3.16 Total nominal baitboat catch (t) seasonality of longfin tuna in Namibian waters for (a) Namibian flagged vessels. Trimester 1 = January-March; T2 = April-June; T3 = July-September; T4 = October-December (ICCAT) Trimester of the Year Figure 3.17 Total nominal baitboat catch (t) seasonality of longfin tuna in Namibian waters for South African flagged vessels. Trimester 1 = January-March; T2 = April-June; T3 = July-September; T4 = October-December (ICCAT) Trimester of the Year 56 The scientific assessment undertaken by ICCAT in 2013 for the south Atlantic albacore (southern stock) suggests that: in 2012, the estimated South African and Namibian catch (mainly baitboat), was below the average of the last five years. The different models used suggested that: There is a wide confidence interval reflecting the large uncertainty around the estimates of stock status; Considering all scenarios, there is 57% probability for the stock to be both overfished and experiencing overfishing; 25

29 There is a 13% probability for the stock to be either overfished or experiencing overfishing but not both, and; There is a 30% probability that biomass is above and fishing mortality is below the Convention objectives. However, the scientific committee lacked enough objective information to identify the most plausible scenarios to account for the variability and stock declines. The variability is most likely attributed to a combination of the following: Increasing fishing effort exacerbated by improved fish finding technology (vessel monitoring systems, use of sonar, sea surface temperature spatial mapping using satellite technology; Environmental variability such as cold and warm water events eg Benguela nino ; Migration and feeding patterns that change abundance levels annually and linked to the environment; Inconsistent or irregular catch reporting. It is also likely that the pending country quota allocations for some of the key tuna species (albacore, yellowfin and bigeye) resulted in both Namibia and South Africa promoting fishing effort by the baitboat and longline sectors. At the 2013 ICCAT commission meeting held in Cape Town the sharing agreement between the South Atlantic countries and foreign fleets ended and was replaced with specific country allocations for albacore. Although the ICCAT data available do not support detailed spatial analysis, it is known 1 that in Namibia aggregations of albacore tuna occur in specific areas in particular Tripp Seamount 25 km to the south of the survey area. Catches in this area are however variable from year to year, although boats will frequent the area knowing that albacore aggregate around Tripp Seamount after migrating through South African waters. Movements of albacore between South Africa and Namibia is not clear although it is believed the fish move northwards following bathymetric features and generally stay deeper than 200m water depth 2. Approximately 36 South African pole and line vessels operate under arrangements with Namibian right holders each year, however the number of active vessels and landed catch have recently shown a decline to 26 active vessels landing a total of 1822t in 2012 (~3000t per annum for the period Note: It is understood the spatial and temporal data of adequate precision to indicate more concise historical fishing locations relative to the survey area is available from MFMR and that these will be provided once approval has been granted by the Permanent Secretary. 2 Please note the ICCAT data used in this assessment is based on data up to 2011 and on the ICCAT stock assessments conducted in More recent information could become available based on the November 2013 Commission meeting held in Cape Town. 26

30 2005 and ~4000t in 2011). As already discussed, the fishery is seasonal with vessel activity mostly between December and May and peak catches in March and April. Effort fluctuates according to the availability of fish in the area, but once a shoal of tuna is located a number of vessels will move into the area and target a single shoal which may remain in the area for days at a time. As such the fishery is dependent on window periods of favourable conditions relating to catch availability. Vessels operating within the fishery are typically small (< 25m in length). Catch is stored on ice, chilled sea water or frozen and the storage method often determines the range of the vessel. Trip durations average between four and five days, depending on the distance of the fishing grounds from port. Vessels drift whilst attracting and catching pelagic tuna species. Whilst at sea, the majority of time is spent searching for fish with actual fishing events taking place over a relatively short period of time. Sonars and echo sounders are used to locate schools of tuna. At the start of fishing, water is sprayed outwards from high-pressure nozzles to simulate small baitfish aggregating near the water surface, thereby attracting tuna to the surface. Live bait is flung out to entice the tuna to the surface (chumming). Tuna swimming near the surface are caught with hand-held fishing poles. The ends of the 2 to 3m poles are fitted with a short length of fishing line leading to a hook. Hooked fish are pulled from the water and many tons can be landed in a short period of time. In order to land heavier fish, lines may be strung from the ends of the poles to overhead blocks to increase lifting power (see Figure 3.18). The nature of the fishery and communication between vessels often results in a large number of these vessels operating in close proximity to each other at a time. The vessels fish predominantly during daylight hours and as they do not anchor or have any fixed gear in the water, these vessels remain manoeuvrable and could take avoiding action at any time. However, at night in fair weather conditions the fleet of vessels may drift or deploy drogues to remain within an area 1. Within Namibian waters, the fishery operates southwards of 25 S predominantly between the 200m and 500m bathymetric contours (see Figure 3.19) and in particular over Tripp Seamount, located 25km south of the proposed survey area. Effort fluctuates according to the availability of fish in the area, but once a shoal of tuna is located a number of vessels will move into the area and target a single shoal which may remain in the area for days at a time. As such the fishery is dependent on window periods of favourable conditions relating to catch availability. The spatial distribution of the tuna pole fisheries includes the proposed survey area. 1 In 2012/13 seismic surveys in the area encountered buoys being used as temporary anchors used by these vessels at night in between daytime fishing events. 27

31 Figure 3.18 Schematic diagram of pole and line operation Source: Figure 3.19 Spatial Distribution of the Range of the Tuna Pole and Line-Fish Fleet as well as favoured Fishing Locations in Relation to the Proposed Survey Area. 28

32 3.2.7 DEEP-SEA CRAB The Namibian deep-sea crab fishery is based on two species of crab namely spider crab (Lithodes ferox) and red crab (Chaceon maritae). The fishery commenced in 1973 with a peak in catches of t in Catches remained high during the 1980s between 5000t and 7000t. Following heavy exploitation by foreign fleets during this period, catch rates dropped significantly and have averaged at approximately 2000t since Thereafter, the TAC and landings have increased steadily with the TAC for 2012 set at 3100t. Method of capture involves the setting of a demersal long-line with a string of approximately 400 Japanese-style traps (otherwise known as pots ) attached to each line. Traps are made of plastic and dimensions are approximately 1.5m width at the base and 0.7m in height. They are spaced 15m apart and typically baited with horse mackerel or skipjack. The line is typically 6000m in length and weighted at each end by a steel anchor. A surface buoy and radar reflector mark each end of the line via a connecting dropper line that allows retrieval of the gear. Up to 1200 traps may be set each day (or two to three lines) and are left to soak for between 24 and 120 hours before being retrieved. The distribution of red crab extends from ~5 S to just South of Walvis Bay at a depth range of 300m to 1000m (see Figure 3.20), but the highest concentrations are found in the north-eastern extent of its distribution. The fishery is small, with only two vessels currently operating from the port of Walvis Bay. Fishing grounds extend between the 500m and 900m isobaths (there is a minimum operational depth of 400m set for the fishery). Fishing operations are seasonal with vessels active from June to August. 29

33 Figure 3.20 Spatial Distribution of Fishing Grounds utilized by the Deep-Sea Crab Fishery within the Namibian EEZ DEEP-WATER TRAWL The deep-water trawl fishery is a small but lucrative fishing sector directed at the outer Namibian shelf from 400m to 1500m water depth targeting orange roughy (Hoplostethus atlanticus) and alfonsino (Beryx splendens). The species is extremely long-lived and aggregates densely, leading to high catch rates. 30

34 General aggregations of the stock occur between June and August. Fishable aggregations are usually found on hard grounds on features such as seamounts, drop-off features or canyons (Branch, 2001). Fishing grounds were discovered in 1995/1996 and total catches reached t in At this point catch limits were set (see Figure 3.21) and effort was limited to five vessels. Following a drop in the biomass levels, TACs were decreased from 12000t in 1998 to 1875t in 2000, since which time the fishery has been closed. The fishery uses a similar gear configuration to that used by the demersal hake-directed trawl fishery. Figure 3.21 TACs issued for Orange Roughy (H. atlanticus) and Alfonsino (B. splendens), Targeted by the Namibian Deep-Water Trawl Fishery. In Namibia the orange roughy fishery is split into four Quota Management Areas (QMA s) referred to as Hotspot, Rix, Frankies and Johnies and TACs are set for each specific QMA (see Figure 3.22). Almost no fishing for this species takes place outside of the designated QMA s and regardless, the fishery is currently closed 1. 1 Note that although the fishery is closed, research and test fishing is possible, although no clarity has been given on whether or not this may occur in

35 Figure 3.22 Management Areas Utilized by the Deep-Water Trawl Fishery within the Namibian EEZ ROCK LOBSTER The small but valuable fishery of rock lobster (Jasus lalandii) is based exclusively in the port of Lüderitz. Catch is landed whole and is managed using a TAC which is currently 350t although historically the fishery sustained 32

36 relatively constant catches of up to 9000t per year until it s decline in the late 1960s. Activity is greatest over January and February with up to 25 vessels active per day over this period with the number of vessels declining towards the end of the season in May. The lobster stock is commercially exploited in Namibian waters between 28º30'S and 25ºS from the Orange River border in the south to Easter Cliffs/Sylvia Hill north of Mercury Island (Figure 3.23). The sector operates in water depths of up to 80m. Baited traps consisting of rectangular metal frames covered by netting, are deployed from small dinghy s and delivered to larger catcher reefers to take to shore for processing. The rock lobster fishing fleet consists of vessels that range in length from 7m to 21m. Traps are set at dusk and retrieved during the early morning using a powerful winch for hauling. As fishing takes place inshore of the 80m isobath and to the south of the proposed survey area, there is no impact expected by the proposed survey on the rock lobster fishery. Figure 3.23 Spatial Distribution of Rock Lobster Catch in Relation to the Proposed Survey Area LINE-FISH The traditional line fishery is based on only a few species that includes silver kob (Argyrosomus inodorus), dusky kob (A. coronus), snoek (Thyrsites atun) and shark which are sold on the local market or exported. The fishery is limited in 33

37 extent mostly around Walvis Bay and does not operate much further than 12 nautical miles offshore. The two commercial components of the line-fish fishery comprise a fleet of between 10 and 13 ski-boats and a fleet of 26 industrial vessels. While ski-boats fish close to the shore in the vicinity of Swakopmund and Walvis Bay, the industrial vessels fish offshore areas between Walvis Bay and the northern border with Angola. Commercial operators sell line-fish on the local market as well as exporting, largely to South Africa OTHER FISHERIES The possibility of Illegal, Unregulated and Unreported (IUU) fishing by foreign fleets may occur in Namibian waters. Some vessels not flagged under Namibian registration do, however, fish in Namibian waters under license agreements with Namibian rights-holders. These vessels are only permitted to fish within the Namibian fisheries management and compliance regime and no exceptions are made. Fishing by foreign-flagged vessels may occur outside of Namibia s EEZ and these are classified as high seas operators. Some of these vessels do land their catches in Namibian ports. With regard to the proposed survey, possible interactions with fishing and other vessels with free passage through Namibian waters cannot be excluded and there is a remote chance that illegal fishing might occur (this is true for waters anywhere in the world). There is very little that can be done about this type of fishing except for increased monitoring and control FISHERIES RESEARCH The Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources (MFMR) conducts regular research (biomass) surveys for demersal, mid-water and small pelagic species. These surveys are normally fixed at specific times of the year and cover the entire continental shelf from the Angolan to the South African maritime border. For example the demersal trawl surveys take place in January February over the period of one month. In some years the Benguela Current Commission may conduct transboundary surveys. 1 Note that diamond drilling takes place in inshore areas, therefore, diamond mining vessels in transit should also be expected. 34

38 4 IMPACT ASSESSMENT 4.1 FISHING IMPACTS IDENTIFIED Seismic surveys could potentially impact the fishing industries through: (i) (ii) (iii) temporary cessation or displacement of fishing activities within the Survey Area; alteration in the rates and/or distribution of fish catches; or interaction with fishing gear. The commercial fishing sectors which could be impacted upon by the proposed seismic activities are discussed in more detail below. Fishing activity recorded within Namibian waters includes the small pelagic purseseine, mid-water trawl, demersal trawl, demersal long-line, large pelagic longline, tuna pole, deep-sea crab, deep-sea trawl and rock lobster sectors. Due to the location of the Survey Area offshore, only the demersal trawl, demersal long-line, large pelagic long-line and tuna pole sectors would be affected. Other fisheries are not considered further within this assessment. In addition to the potential impacts of exclusion to fishing areas, recent research has shown that seismic survey activity may affect the behaviour and physiology of fish and other marine fauna. Summarised below are some of the main impacts to be considered. A range of damaging physical effects due to airgun noise have been described for fish, including swim-bladder damage, transient stunning, short-term stress responses, temporary hearing loss, haemorrhaging, eye damage and blindness. However, studies have shown that physical damage to fish caused from seismic sources occurs only in the immediate vicinity of the airguns, in distances of less than a few meters (Gausland 2003). Adult and juvenile fish have been shown to display several behavioural responses to seismic sound. These include leaving the area of the sound source by swimming away and changing depth distribution, changing schooling behaviour and startle responses to short range start up. These responses could affect spawning behaviour and migration patterns and Dalen et al. (1996) concluded that the use of seismic airguns be avoided within 50km of important spawning or migration areas. While adult fish can flee from airgun noise, eggs and larvae area unable to do so and therefore may be affected by the signals. However, it was concluded that the impact of airguns on fish eggs and larvae will account for an insignificant amount of mortality compared to the natural mortality rate per day for most fish species at that life stage (Dalen and Mæsted 2008). 35

39 Tons per annum ( ) Behavioural responses to seismic sound could lead to decreased catch rates if fish move out of important fishing grounds (Hirst and Rodhouse 2000). There is little information available on these potential impacts. 4.2 ASSESSMENT OF IMPACTS Impact on Demersal Trawl The proposed survey area (including vessel safety zone and turning circles) overlaps approximately 360km 2 of km 2 (0.4%) of the total ground utilised by the fishery. The affected area lies between the 330m and 750m isobaths where, over the period 2005 to 2009, 0.14% (207 hours) of the total effort and 0.08% (74.8t) of the total hake catch was recorded per year. Figure 3.24 shows that nominal landings taken from the project area are continuous throughout the year but are relatively lower over the period September to December (including a closed month of October). Figure 3.24 Average Monthly Catch from the Proposed Survey Area Recorded by the Demersal Trawl Fishery over the period 2004 to Hake Catch taken within Project Area: Landings by Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec The proposed survey operation is expected to have a short-term adverse effect on commercial catch through potential restrictions on fishing operations within the survey area. As the proposed survey area overlaps less than 0.1% of hake-directed fishing grounds, the impact of the proposed survey on the demersal trawl fishery is expected to be insignificant. Potential impacts should be mitigated through direct communication and facilitation with any vessels in the area at the time of the survey and agreeing on adjusting survey lines and trawling location to cause minimum disruption of operations to both parties. It is therefore recommended that the survey 36

40 design be communicated to the trawling industry in order to co-ordinate areas that would remain open to trawling and that regular updates on the whereabouts of planned survey transects be relayed to the fleet. Fish movements and related behavioural patterns (such as aggregations) associated with spawning and feeding preferences could be affected if the fish show avoidance behaviour to the noise; however this impact should be shortterm and only in the immediate vicinity of the survey vessel. Impact on Demersal Long-Line Demersal long-lining takes place along the entire Namibian coastline following the distribution of hake and kingklip along the continental shelf between a depth range of 200m and 600m. The proposed survey operation is expected to have a short-term adverse effect on commercial catch through potential restrictions on fishing operations within the survey area as well as a potential short-term reduction in catch per unit effort (CPUE) as a result of behavioural responses of fish resulting from survey-related noise. As the proposed survey area overlaps approximately 200km 2 or 0.2% of hakedirected fishing grounds inshore of the 600m isobath, the impact of the proposed survey on the demersal long-line fishery is expected to be insignificant. Impact on Large Pelagic Long-Line Long-line vessels targeting pelagic tuna species and swordfish operate extensively around the entire coast along the shelf-break and into deeper waters. As such it is likely that vessel activity would be encountered within the proposed survey area. The proposed survey operation is expected to have a short-term adverse effect on commercial catch through potential restrictions on fishing operations within the survey area as well as a potential short-term reduction in catch per unit effort (CPUE) as a result of behavioural responses of fish resulting from survey-related noise. As the proposed survey area covers less than 10% of fishing grounds available to the large pelagic long-line fishery, the impact of the proposed survey on this sector is expected to be insignificant. Since the gear used by this fishery consists of surface-set drifting lines of up to 100km in length, this fishery would be highlighted as posing a potential hazard to the seismic operation in terms of gear entanglements. A recent seismic survey undertaken in southern Namibian waters recorded an incident of fouling of the streamer cable with a pelagic long-line, leading to the loss of fish catch and disruption to the survey and fishing operations. Indications are that the gear deployed is both tuna and shark directed. Shark lines normally have wire traces and stronger hooks and are potentially more damaging if fouled. It must therefore be assumed that pelagic gear will be encountered and that mitigation measures to avoid interaction will be needed. 37

41 Impact on Tuna Pole-and-Line Pole-and-line vessels operate between the 200m and 1000m isobaths and particularly over Tripp Seamount, located 25km south of the proposed survey area. Effort fluctuates according to the availability of fish in the area, but once a shoal of tuna is located a number of vessels will move into the area and target a single shoal which may remain in the area for days at a time. As such the fishery is dependent on window periods of favourable conditions relating to catch availability (particularly between December and March). Disruption of pole-and-line operations is likely if the vessel moves south of the survey area. In the event this occurs, a clear communications protocol should be established to mitigate interactions. There remains uncertainty regarding the actual impact the survey-related noise may have on fish behaviour and disruption of their availability to the fisheries. The proposed survey operation is expected to have a short-term adverse effect on commercial catch through potential restrictions on fishing operations within the survey area as well as a potential short-term reduction in catch per unit effort (CPUE) as a result of behavioural responses of fish resulting from survey-related noise. As the proposed survey area covers less than 10% of fishing grounds available to the fishery, the impact of the proposed survey on this sector is expected to be insignificant. 4.3 MITIGATION OF IMPACTS ON FISHING The following mitigation measures are proposed in order to minimise disruptions to both the survey and fishing operations: Prior to the commencement of the survey, fishing industrial associations and MFMR should be informed of the pending activity and the likely implications for the affected fishing sectors and research surveys expected to coincide with the proposed seismic operations; An experienced Fisheries Liaison Officer (FLO) should be deployed on board the survey vessel to initiate and facilitate radio communications with maritime vessels in the vicinity of the survey area; The FLO should report daily on vessel activity and respond and advise on action to be taken in the event of encountering fishing gear; A daily electronic reporting routine should be circulated, informing affected parties (i.e. fishing industrial bodies and MFMR) of the survey activity and expected date of completion as well as recorded fisheries interactions; Due the likely interaction with fishers and fishing gear it is strongly recommended that the survey vessel be accompanied by a chase vessel with staff familiar with the fishers expected in the area. In terms of fishing sector communications, the following mitigation measures are recommended: 38

42 Demersal Trawl: Identification of specific vessels likely to be operational in the vicinity of the survey area is recommended. The survey location, timing, duration and requested safety requirements should be communicated to selected fishing operators prior to the commencement of the survey and on an on-going basis throughout the survey. With good communication and reduced time in the area disruption of fishing activity can be minimised. Demersal Long-line: Identification of specific vessels likely to be operational in the vicinity of the survey area is recommended. The survey location, timing, duration and requested safety requirements should be communicated to selected fishing operators prior to the commencement of the survey and on an on-going basis throughout the survey. The FLO and/or chase vessel should identify long-line gear in the water (marked at each end by a surface buoy). Hake long-liners generally stay close to their lines when gear is deployed and communication with skippers on the position of set gear is essential. Pelagic Long-line: Establish communications with the known operators prior to commencement of the survey and on an on-going basis throughout the survey. Communications must be maintained between the FLO and vessels operating in the vicinity of the survey area and daily updates of the survey transect shooting plan can be communicated as needed. FLO and/or chase vessel must maintain lookout for drifting buoys (with radar responders) at all times. Tuna Pole: Notification to the local vessel operators and on-going communications for the duration of the survey. MFMR: Communication should be established with MFMR and the Monitoring, Control and Surveillance unit in Walvis Bay (Vessel Monitoring System in particular). It is recommended that communications with affected parties be established via correspondence with the following industrial body: The Association of Namibian Fishing Industries (covers most sectors as a collective secretariat). In addition, the following individual associations should be notified: Namibian Hake Association; Namibian Monk and Sole Association; Namibian Tuna and Hake Long-lining Association; and Walvis Bay Pelagic Fishing Association. 39

43 5 ASSUMPTIONS AND LIMITATIONS DATA SOURCES Relevant fisheries catch and effort data was sourced from Namibia s Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources (MFMR) records of commercial fisheries for the years 2000 to Data for the years 2011 and 2012 are currently under request from the Permanent Secretary of MFMR but were not available for inclusion in the current report due to time limitations in the release of the data (see data request in Annex 1). The data used are however characteristic of the historical and current trends in catch and effort in the fisheries and for this reason the non-availability of the data will not make any material difference to the outcomes of this assessment. The Namibian Tuna and Hake Long-lining Association also provided input on specific areas of operation. Information on species distribution was taken from the Benguela Current Large Marine Ecosystem (BCLME) Annual State of the Stocks Report

44 6 CONCLUSION The proposed survey would be undertaken over a 50 day period commencing either October or November 2014 within the north-eastern portion of the PEL39 licence area, situated approximately 170km to 350km off the coast of southern Namibia. The survey footprint would comprise the 3D survey acquisition area of 2500km², excluding vessel run-ins, run-outs and turning circles between transects. The vessel would operate within water depths of 1300m to 2500m. Four commercial fisheries have been identified as being active within the proposed survey area and could potentially be impacted by seismic activities through preclusion from the survey area and/or through short-term adverse effects on catch resulting from survey-related noise. The affected sectors are the demersal trawl, demersal long-line, pelagic long-line and tuna pole-andline fisheries. There is no impact expected on the small pelagic purse-seine, mid-water trawl, deep-sea crab, deep-water trawl, rock lobster and line-fish sectors. Demersal trawling and long-lining takes place along the entire Namibian coastline following the distribution of hake and monkfish along the continental shelf between a depth range of 200m and 850m (trawlers are prohibited from operating inshore of the 200m isobaths). Demersal trawling effort is relatively constant throughout the year except for a closure for the month of October and relatively low levels of effort expended during November and December. The proposed survey operation is expected to have a short-term adverse effect on commercial catch through potential restrictions on fishing operations within the survey area as well as a potential short-term reduction in catch per unit effort (CPUE) as a result of behavioural responses of fish resulting from survey-related noise. As the proposed survey area overlaps 0.4% (350km 2 ) and 0.2% (200km 2 ) of the fishing ground available to the hake-directed trawl and longline sectors respectively, the impact of the proposed survey on these fisheries is expected to be insignificant. Long-line vessels targeting pelagic tuna species and swordfish operate extensively around the entire coast along the shelf-break and into deeper waters. As such it is likely that vessel activity would be encountered within the proposed survey area. The proposed survey operation is expected to have a short-term adverse effect on commercial catch through potential restrictions on fishing operations within the survey area as well as a potential short-term reduction in catch per unit effort (CPUE) as a result of behavioural responses of fish resulting from survey-related noise. As the proposed survey area covers 7581km 2 of approximately km 2 of ground available to the fishery, this amounts to an area of overlap of 1.5% of the fishery by area. The impact of the proposed survey on this sector is therefore expected to be insignificant. Since the gear used by this fishery consists of surface-set drifting lines of up to 100km in length, this fishery would be highlighted as posing a potential hazard to the seismic operation in terms of gear entanglements. 41

45 With respect to the research cruises undertaken within Namibian waters interaction is not expected but should be confirmed with the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources prior to commencement of the survey. 42

46 7 REFERENCES Botha L (1980) The biology of the Cape hakes Merluccius capensis Cast. and M. paradoxus Franca in the Cape of Good Hope area Ph.D. thesis, University of Stellenbosch (182 pp.) Boyer D C and Hampton I (2001) An overview of the living marine resources of Namibia in A decade of Namibian Fisheries Science S. Afr. J. mar. Sci (23) Eds Payne A I L, Pillar S C and Crawford R J M. Crawford R J M, Shannon L V and Pollock D E (1987) The Benguela ecosystem (4) The major fish and invertebrate resources In Oceanography and Marine Biology: An Annual Review 25 Barnes M (Ed) Aberdeen; University Press ( ). Fishing Industry Handbook South Africa, Namibia and Moçambique (2013) 41 st edition George Warman Publications King D P F (1977) Influence of temperature, dissolved oxygen and salinity on incubation and early larval development of the South West African pilchard Sardinops ocellata Invenstl Rep. Sea Fish. Brch S. Afr. 114 (35 pp.) Le Roux L (1997) Stock assessment and population dynamics of the deep-sea red crab Chaceon maritae (Brachyura, Geryonidae) off the Namibian Coast M.Sc. thesis, Univerisity of Iceland (88 pp.) Leslie R W and Grant W S (1990) Lack of congruence between genetic and morphometric stock structure of the southern African anglerfish Lophius vomerinus S. Afr. J. mar. Sci. 9 ( ) Macpherson E (1985) Daily ration and feeding periodicity of some fishes off the coast of Namibia Mar. Ecol. Prog. Ser. 26(3): Olivar M P, Rubies P and Salat J (1988) Early life history and spawning of Merluccius capensis Castelnau in the northern Benguela Current S. Afr. J. mar. Sci. 6 ( ) O Toole M J (1977) Investigation into some important fish larvae in the South-East Atlantic Ph.D. thesis University of Cape Town (299 pp.) 43

47 Annex I Data request letter sent to MFMR

48 From: Sarah Wilkinson Sent: 10 June :34 To: Subject: MFMR Data Request Dear Ms. Ulitala Hiveluah, An offshore seismic survey has been proposed to take place within southern Namibian waters. As part of the Environmental Impact Assessment process, a fisheries impact assessment has been commissioned. In this regard, we would like to request access to fisheries data from MFMR in order to undertake this assessment and have drafted a letter of request (please see attachment). Please contact me with any further queries. Yours sincerely, Sarah Wilkinson CapFish SA Pty Ltd Unit 15 Foregate Square, Table Bay Blvd Foreshore, 8001, Cape Town, R.S.A Tel: +27 (0) Mob: +27 (0) VAT Registration No / / 07 I1