South Atlantic Observer Programme

South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands are located within the Atlantic sector of the Southern Ocean, an area managed under international agreement by the Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR). South Georgia is an overseas territory of the UK which, through its declaration of a 200 mile Maritime Zone and its membership of CCAMLR, is responsible for the conservation of resources within this region.

MRAG has been involved in the management of the resources of South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands since 1989, and is at present contracted by the Government of South Georgia to manage the fisheries until 2005. MRAG has supplied scientific observers for vessels operating in this area since the establishment of the 200 mile Maritime Zone in 1993, and the creation of the CCAMLR Scheme of International Scientific Observation in 1992. For example, in the 1999/2000 season, MRAG supplied 17 observers, two to work on demersal trawlers targeting icefish (Champsocephalus gunnari), 14 to work on demersal longliners targeting toothfish (Dissostichus eleginoides) and one observer to work on a vessel carrying out a trial pot fishery, also targeting toothfish.

MRAG’s responsibilities include: training; supply of all equipment (including scientific and safety equipment), briefing and data collection materials; all logistical arrangements for return travel, embarkation and disembarkation; and providing facilities for all data and reporting requirements of the UK Government and CCAMLR. Periodic scientific observer workshops are held to orientate and train prospective CCAMLR International Scientific Observers. The workshops also provide a platform for existing Scientific Observers to familiarise themselves with amendments to both conservation measures and sampling requirements.