Norwegian fishermen are split over the Norwegian Petroleum Directorate's acquisition of seismic data which will start off Lofoten next week. Many are opposed to the survey, claiming it is harmful to the fisheries.
They say they will put out their nets and lines in the very waters where the acquisition activities are to take place in order to block the survey. Others have accepted an offer of financial compensation in return for remaining in harbour while the seismic tests are carried out in their region. The fishermen can still fish when the seismic survey vessels are not in their particular fishing areas.
According to Norwegian law the fishermen have first rights and the survey vessels have to give way if there are nets and boats in the area.
An extensive, cutting-edge research project will be carried out by the Norwegian Petroleum Directorate (NPD) in connection with the acquisition of seismic data in Vesteraalen.The objective is to study the startle effect of seismic surveys on a number of important commercial fish species. This is the largest project of its kind, and is unique in a global context.In addition to learning more about how different species of fish react to the seismic shock waves, researchers will study how long it takes for fishing to normalise after seismic data acquisition is completed.
The studies of the startle effect will be linked to acoustic measurements. Five fishing vessels have been hired to carry out test fishing before, during and after the seismic survey activity.
Should fisheries be closed during breeding time to allow stocks to reach more sustainable levels?
