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Fisheries Department staff received a week-long training on how to use electronic technologies to improve data collection and management systems for effective fisheries management and provide the critical information needed to assess the status of fish stocks, evaluate ecosystem impacts and develop sustainable management practices.
The Tonga National Observer Program (TNOP) plays a key role in collecting data on offshore fisheries, making a significant contribution to the sustainable management of Tonga’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and the wider region. To strengthen the program, the Fisheries Department is working to increase the capacity of observers by integrating new technologies.
The Department is committed to leveraging emerging technologies to improve data collection processes. This includes the implementation of the Electronic Reporting (ER) initiative which aims to streamline and enhance data collection. The SPC has been trialling various ER tools and applications to support member countries including Tonga.
Tonga’s national ER program includes onboard and shore-based applications that allow fishing vessel captains to collect data while at sea and landing in port. The ministry has also expanded its ER program to provide fishery observers with the Offline Longline Observer (OLLO) application. Currently, 90% of senior observers are using OLLO, while newly recruited observers (who have completed 3-4 cruises) are transitioning from paper forms to the OLLO application.
This cutting-edge approach ensures Tonga remains at the forefront of fisheries management, using technology to support sustainable practices and effective resource management.
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