RESOLUTION I

concerning the Management objectives for Baltic Salmon

(adopted during the XXIst Session, 1995)

1. Further decrease of naturally produced smolts should not be allowed in order to prevent wild stocks from extinction.

2. The production of wild Salmon should gradually increase to attain at least 50% of the natural production capacity of every individual river before the year 2010, this in order to achieve a better balance between wild and reared Salmon.

3. The level of fishing should be maintained as high as possible. Only restrictions necessary to achieve the first two objectives should be carried out.

RESOLUTION II

concerning a Moratorium on Salmon fishing

in all the rivers and river-mouth with wild Salmon stocks

(adopted during the XXIst Session, 1995)

Considering the need to restore the population of the wild Salmon stocks in the Baltic Sea, and taking into account that the International Baltic Sea Fishery Commission has - for the fourth consecutive year - taken measures within the framework and the limits of the Gdansk Convention;

Conscious of the socio-economic effects of these measures on fishermen who are dependent on salmon fishery;

Considering that these measures have contributed to stopping further degradation of wild Salmon stocks, but that further measures have to be taken outside the area of competence of the Gdansk Convention;

The International Baltic Sea Fishery Commission recommends to the Fishery Authorities from all the Contracting Parties:

to declare a moratorium on salmon fishing in rivers and river-mouths with wild Salmon stocks.

RESOLUTION III

concerning the enforcement of the Cod TAC allocations in the Baltic Sea

(adopted during the XXIst Session, 1995)

The Heads of Delegation from the International Baltic Sea Fishery Commission:

Considering the uncertainties on the state of the Cod stocks in the Baltic Sea and the Belts caused by an interruption in the transmission of reliable information on catches in recent years;

Confident that there is consensus on the fact that at present the Cod stocks are improving, and that TACs can be increased accordingly;

Desirous to contribute to improve the quality and quantity of information necessary for the elaboration of scientific recommendations to the International Baltic Sea Fishery Commission;

Declare the need to respect the agreed TAC allocations in the respective economic zones, by enhanced quota management and control;

Undertake in the case of overfishing to submit a report to the Commission on why this has occurred and what measures will be taken to prevent future overfishing of TAC allocations.

RESOLUTION IV

IBSFC Salmon Action Plan 1997-2010

(adopted during the Extraordinary Session, February 1997)

For the purpose of this Action Plan the following definitions apply:

1. Wild Baltic Salmon
   An offspring of natural spawning Salmon, having spent its entire life in the wild.
2. Wild Salmon river
   Habitat where wild Salmon populations reproduce successfully.
3. Potential wild Salmon river
   River currently lacking wild Salmon populations, but having a potential for re-establishment of them.
4. Reared Salmon
   Salmon used for wild population enhancement, reproduction of populations where wild population cannot reproduce naturally and for farming, which have spent a part or all of their life cycle in capacity.
1. Release techniques
   
   River releases
   Release of smolt and earlier Salmon life stages in rivers and river mouths.

Coastal release
Release of smolts into coastal waters.

Delayed release
Release of smolts kept in ages in the sea for some period before they are released.

Enhancement release
Release of smolts or earlier Salmon life stages in wild Salmon rivers or potential wild Salmon rivers, taking into account the need for genetic diversity.

1. Terminal Fishery
   Fishery targeting reared Salmon instead of wild or mixed stocks.

Long Term Objective 2010

1. To prevent the extinction of wild populations, further decrease of naturally produced smolts should not be allowed.
2. The production of wild Salmon should gradually increase to attain by 2010 for each Salmon river a natural production of wild Baltic Salmon of at least 50% of the best estimate potential and within safe genetic limits, in order to achieve a better balance between wild and reared Salmon.
3. Wild Salmon populations shall be re-established in potential Salmon rivers.
4. The level of fishing should be maintained as high as possible. Only restrictions necessary to achieve the first three objectives should be implemented.
5. Reared smolts and earlier Salmon life stage releases shall be closely monitored.

Medium and Short Term Strategies

To protect wild Salmon populations

1. The lists of rivers potentially or actually capable of holding wild Salmon populations should be prepared before 15 January 1997 for adoption by the IBSFC in February 1997. The list should be attached to this Action Plan and recommendations for updating should be made during the annual IBSFC Sessions.
2. The annual TAC for Salmon shall be fixed in accordance with the long term management objective.
3. A summer ban as specified in the IBSFC Fishery Rules shall be maintained.
4. Coastal Sates are requested to adopt appropriate national measures such as closed areas and periods to supplement IBSFC Recommendations and Resolutions.
5. The wild Salmon rivers included in the list attached to this Action Plan shall be treated with special care.
   In these rivers where the ongoing releasing projects exist only necessary time -limited enhancement releases-ending as soon as possible to achieve the said objective- shall take place, with the aim to restore the populations while preserving genetic diversity.
   Only native material shall be used and where this is not available, appropriate stocks from nearby donor rivers shall be used.
   The Contracting Parties shall inform the IBSFC of their enhancement and re-establishment plans in wild and potential wild salmon rivers.
6. An inventory should be made of the barriers and obstacles for wild Salmon migrations and describing the quality of their habitats.
7. Wild Salmon habitats should be improved taking into account the local circumstances of rivers.
8. The control and management of fisheries in rivers with wild Salmon populations and rivers where such populations are re-established should be strengthened.

To promote fishing activities

1. Releases in areas including rivers where wild Salmon do not reproduce naturally and delayed release experiments should be such that they minimise interactions with wild Salmon.
   Such experiments should be done taking into account the concept of the precautionary approach to avoid any adverse effects such as genetic influence.
2. To the greatest extent possible the fishing pattern should be shifted from the mixed wild and reared population fishery to a fishery targeting mainly reared populations.
   To achieve this, further investigations and experiments on all relevant techniques for the rational introduction of terminal fisheries should be conducted.

To increase the science on Salmon

1. The broodstocks for releases in the Baltic Sea should be appointed using the best available biological and genetic advice.
   This advice should be provided by a technical sub-group of the Salmon Action Plan Surveillance Group to be constituted.
2. To ensure that the interactions between reared and wild populations are minimised, a programme of fin clipping should be elaborated and implemented for all reared and released Salmon. Fish released for enhancement purposes may be identified in a different way.
3. Continued co-ordination of scientific research is needed to analyse migration patterns of Salmon, including straying of Salmon from delayed release, and to discover the underlying causes of M74 in Salmonids.
4. National and regional index rivers should be designated for the pilot monitoring of wild Salmon populations considering, at least, the escapement and smolt production.
5. A "Surveillance Group" shall be appointed for constant monitoring of the impact of the Action Plan and propose amendments to it.
   The Surveillance Group shall meet well before the Annual Session of the IBSFC.

RESOLUTION V

Project on the Restoration of the Baltic Sturgeon (Acipenser sturio L.)

(adopted during the Extraordinary Session February 1997)

The International Baltic Sea Fishery Commission recognising its obligations on the development of the biological diversity in the Baltic Sea invites:

IBSFC member governments to inform their fishermen on the project on the re-establishment of the Baltic Sturgeon on the Odra River asking the fishermen to help the project in particular to inform appropriate institutions of the coastal states about catches of any sturgeons in the Baltic Sea as well as to gather broodstock material of the native Baltic sturgeon (Acipenser sturio L.

RESOLUTION VI

Agenda 21 for the Baltic Sea Region

(adopted during the Extraordinary Session, February 1997)

The International Baltic Sea Fishery Commission has been appointed as the lead agency to develop an Agenda 21 for the Fishery sector of Baltic Sea Region. This contribution to an Agenda 21 is to be adopted by the 1997 Annual Meeting of the IBSFC and shall give input to the report of the Senior Officials Group (SOG) on an Agenda 21 for the Baltic Sea Region.

The International Baltic Sea Fishery Commission therefore has adopted the following resolution:

The IBSFC establishes a Working Group to work by correspondence (and if needed during a meeting) and report to the September 1997 annual meeting of the IBSFC (8-12 September 1997).

The Group shall develop a draft Agenda 21 for the Baltic Sea Region covering the fish resources in the Baltic Sea and the fisheries impact on the Baltic Sea environment and work under the following Terms of References:

1. Describe the present status of the fish stocks in the Baltic Sea and evaluate whether the fish resources are exploited within sustainable limits.
2. Describe the status of the biological diversity within the fish resources and describe where loss of biological diversity in the Baltic Sea ecosystem has been experienced particular with respect to wild salmon.
3. Describe the impact from fisheries on the Baltic Sea ecosystem

• Target fishery species
• Non-target fish species
• Birds
• Marine mammals
• Habitats

1. Describe the impact on Baltic Fish stock from:

• Man's activities, e.g. eutrophication, pollution
• The natural variability of the environment such as inflow of salt water, temperature, fresh water flow in rivers

2. Describe the IBSFC management plan on sustainable fisheries in the Baltic Sea

• Based on annual scientific advice from ICES on the exploitation of the fisheries resources
• Based on the setting of annual catch limits (TACs) for the most important fish stocks in the Baltic Sea (cod, Herring, Sprat and Salmon)
• Based on a set of technical measures, e.g. mesh sizes, closed areas and seasons to achieve a rational exploitation pattern of the available resources and to avoid undesirable impacts on the Baltic Sea ecosystem from fishing activities
• Based on close co-operation between contracting parties and coastal states on control of the fisheries regulations

3. Describe the IBSFC management plan to preserve and develop biodiversity in the Baltic Sea

• Based on scientific advice from ICES and other relevant sources
• Based on specific action plans adopted to achieve the required targets in any specific situation, e.g. the Salmon Action Plan

In carrying out its work the Group shall:

• Recognise the IBSFC management competence and obligations to protect the fisheries resources of the Baltic Sea and manage them within sustainable exploitation levels
• Recognise the IBSFC decision to request and receive annual advice from ICES on the appropriate exploitation levels of the Baltic Sea fish resources
• Recognise all other scientific input provided to IBSFC by ICES and other relevant sources
• Recognise IBSFC co-operation with HELCOM in the Baltic Sea
• Recognise the FAO Code of conduct on responsible fishing and the application of the precautionary approach in fishery management.

RESOLUTION VII
Concerning the establishment of a management strategy
(Adopted during the XXIIIrd Session, 1997)

Conscious of the need to further improve the management of the Baltic Cod the Parties agree on the necessity to develop a comprehensive medium and long term management strategy for Baltic Cod.

The strategy should apply to the precautionary approach, while at the same time secure optimum and sustainable yield and stock size.

For this purpose IBSFC shall establish a Working Group to meet in early 1998 and request ICES to provide appropriate biological limit reference points and other biological and precautionary reference points.

RESOLUTION VIII

Concerning the enforcement of the TACs in the Baltic Sea

(adopted during the XXIIIrd Session, 1997)

The Contracting Parties to the International Baltic Sea Fishery Commission undertake in the case of overfishing to submit a report to the Commission on why this has occurred and what measures will be taken to prevent future overfishing of TAC allocations.

RESOLUTION IX

Concerning principles for Salmon enhancement activities and list of rivers where self-sustaining wild populations should exist by 2010

(adopted during the XXIVth Session, 1998).

1. General principles

Enhancement activities or re-establishment programmes shall be carried out in accordance with the following guiding principles :

1. Consider the genetic structure of the Baltic salmon in the planning of the programme. Distinguish between populations from the Gulf of Finland, Gulf of Bothnia, Eastern and Southern Main Basin.
2. Respect the adaptation that has occurred in a river and the original genetic diversity of that population. In order to enhance a wild population utilise the same native population if it is sufficiently large to maintain its recent genetic diversity in the long run. For re-establishment, use the viable population of sufficient size that is most similar to the original population. Do only use healthy stocking material in the stocking process.
3. Try to avoid selection during the rearing process. To the extend possible, utilise young life stages for releases and rear for as short a time as possible without risking the effect of the enhancement.
4. In re-establishment activities, be prepared to continue the stocking programme for at least one generation in order to get a founding population of sufficient size. Monitor the situation and continue with more input of stocking material from the donor population if needed.

2. For the purpose of the IBSFC Salmon Action Plan 1997-2010, the following rivers are intended to have self-sustaining populations by 2010 :

Finland

Simojoki

Finland/Sweden

Tornionjoki/Torne älv

Sweden

Kalix älv

Rane älv

Pite älv

Aby älv

Aby älv

Byske älv

Ricklean

Sâvaran

Ume/Vindealven

Ore älv

Lodge älv

Eman

Morrumsan

Estonia

Loobu

Kunda

Keila

Vasalemma

Latvia

Salaca

Vitrupe

Peterupe

Irbe

Uzava

Saka

Latvia/Lithuania

Barta/Bartuva

Lithuania

Zeimena

Russian Federation

Sista

Voronka

Kovashi

This list of rivers can be amended by the Salmon Action Plan Surveillance Group in the light of further experience and improved research.

Wherever possible, enhancement activities in these rivers should be discontinued no later than 2005. However, this may need to be modified when significant, unforeseen circumstances arise, such as unexpectedly high natural mortality (M74 etc.) or accidental degradation of natural habitats.

RESOLUTION X

On the Long Term Management Strategy for the Cod Stocks in the Baltic Sea

(adopted by the 25th Session)

The IBSFC agreed to implement a long term management plan for the two cod stocks, Eastern and Western Stocks, as defined by ICES, which is consistent with a precautionary approach and designed to ensure a rational exploitation pattern and provide for stable and high yield. The plan shall consist of the following elements:

1. Every effort shall be made to maintain a minimum level of Spawning Stock Biomass (SSB) greater than 160 000 tonnes for the Eastern stock and 9 000 tonnes for the Western stock.

2. A long term management plan, by which annual quotas shall be set for the fishery on the Eastern stock, reflecting a fishing mortality rate of 0.6 and for the Western stock 1.0 for appropriate age groups as defined by ICES shall be implemented.

3.Should the SSB fall below a reference point of 240 000 tonnes for the Eastern Stock and 23 000 tonnes for the Western Stock, the fishing mortality rates referred to under paragraph 2, will be adapted in the light of scientific estimates of the conditions then prevailing, to ensure safe and rapid recovery of spawning stock biomasses to levels in excess of 240 000 tonnes and 23 000 tonnes respectively for the Eastern and Western Stocks.

4.For allocation purposes a combined TAC will be established; the Contracting Parties agree to further collaborate, inter alia, through bilateral agreements to ensure an efficient management of the cod stocks.

5. The exploitation pattern in the fisheries for cod and in particular the selectivity shall be improved in the light of new scientific advice from ICES with the objective to enhance the spawning biomass of cod and reduce discards.

6. Additional technical measures including, inter alia, further limitation on effort, restrictions on fishing days, closing of areas and / or seasons, obligation to change fishing ground in case of high abundance of juveniles, special reporting requirements, and other appropriate control measures should be considered.

7. The IBSFC shall, as appropriate, adjust management measures and elements of the plan on the basis of any new advice provided by ICES.

A review of this arrangement shall take place no later than year 2003.

RESOLUTION XI

concerning suitable Salmon rearing and releasing methods

(adopted by the 25th Session)

Regardless of rearing facilities, the production of Salmon should follow the principles of maintaining genetic diversity, taking into account

• using local Salmon populations for rearing and releases,
• only release the number of fish in individual wild Salmon rivers and former wild Salmon rivers, which they could have produced (or historically have been known to produce) under undisturbed conditions,
• river releases should be carried out as far upstream as possible,
• delayed and coastal releases should be conducted in such a way that the interactions with wild Salmon, inter alia, by straying will be minimized. These release techniques should be closely monitored and will be further examined by the Salmon Action Plan Surveillance Group.

RESOLUTION XII

concerning wild Salmon Index rivers and monitoring methods
For the purpose of the IBSFC Salmon Action Plan 1997-2010 Index rivers should be considered as the basis for monitoring the status of wild Salmon populations.

(adopted by the 25th Session)

1. The following Index rivers are appointed:

The rivers written in bold are by region the most important.

2. Measures for monitoring of wild Salmon Index rivers and, where appropriate, other Salmon rivers:

• Electrofishing surveys should be carried out and be based on the method given by Bohlin et al (1989), particularly as to the spatial stratification of the survey.
• Estimates of the smolt run, through smolt trapping should, if possible, be carried out.
• Counting of ascending spawners should, if possible, be carried out and estimates of escapement should be established.
• Unified data series should be established and exchanged between the Contracting Parties with the view to the implementation of the Salmon Action Plan. It should be based on the reproduction of wild fish, independent of any enhancement occurring in the river, in order to monitor effects of fishery regulations and other regulating factors.

 

RESOLUTION XIII

 

ON THE LONG TERM MANAGEMENT STRATEGY FOR THE SPRAT STOCK IN THE BALTIC SEA

The IBSFC agreed to implement a long term management plan for the Sprat stock which is consistent with a precautionary approach and designed to ensure a rational exploitation pattern and provide for stable and high yields. This plan shall consist of the following elements:

1. Every effort shall be made to maintain a level of Spawning Stock Biomass (SSB) greater than 200 000 tonnes.
2. A long term management plan, by which annual quotas shall be set for the fishery, reflecting a fishing mortality rate of 0.4 for relevant age groups as defined by ICES shall be implemented.
3. Should the SSB fall below a reference point of 275 000 tonnes, the fishing mortality rate referred to under paragraph 2 will be adapted in the light of scientific estimates of the conditions then prevailing, to ensure safe and rapid recovery of the Spawning Stock Biomass to levels in excess of 275 000 tonnes.
4. The IBSFC shall, as appropriate, adjust management measures and elements of the plan on the basis of any new advice provided by ICES.

 

A review of this arrangement shall take place not later than in the year 2003.

 

 

Resolution XIV

on management measures to optimize the harvesting of reared Salmon and to minimize genetic impact on wild Salmon

• In management measures priority should be given to keep a sufficient number of wild spawners;
• Offshore fishery should be established at a level which saves enough wild Salmon for the spawning run;
• Coastal fishery should, wherever possible, be managed by combination of effort-, area-based and/or seasonal measures to allow a sufficient number of wild spawners to enter rivers and to maximize the utilization of the reared Salmon. Delaying the start of such fishery in coastal areas would minimize the harvest of wild Salmon.
• Wherever possible the exploitation of reared stocks in the terminal fishery should be increased to minimize the probability of reared fish to stray and thus bring harmful gene flow to wild populations;

·           Experiments and programmes on adipose fin clipping should be further developed as the best possibility to distinguish wild and reared Salmon;

• Changing of release strategy may be considered in some cases to increase homing of reared fish and the possibilities of separating wild and reared stocks;
• For hatchery releases only fish from the same phylogeographic lineage should be used and they should be genetically as similar as possible to the adjacent Salmon river of the area;
• The effectiveness of all regulatory measures should be determined by the status of the stocks in the index rivers.

Resolution XV

on IBSFC Salmon Action Plan Reporting Format

For the purpose of the monitoring of the Salmon Action Plan, the reporting according to the Baltic 21 Action Programme Fisheries and in the interest of a unified reporting scheme of IBSFC and HELCOM on Salmon, the Contracting Parties should report according to the format enclosed:

RESOLUTION XVI

on  the definition of terminal fishery areas

Definition of Terminal Fishery Areas

A terminal fishery area is defined as a distinct coastal area, where the fishery is targeted on reared Salmon, and where no or few wild Salmon occur or the fishing technique used allows release of live wild Salmon. The catch of reared Salmon in these areas should be based on long term releases.

·      A terminal fishery area for coastal or delayed coastal releases could be established provided that mainly reared Salmon are caught or the fishing technique used allows release of live wild Salmon and experiments have proven that there is no or little risk for genetic harmful straying of reared Salmon to wild Salmon populations.

·      Terminal fishery should only be allowed within geographically defined boarders between the coastline and the line of four nautical miles outside the baseline. The borders for the terminal fishery areas should be made according to longitude and latitude co-ordinate in the WGS 84 system.

·      The actual size of each terminal fishery area has to be planned and decided on a national level in relation to the occurrence of wild Salmon in the area. The possibilities for establishing a terminal fishery area depends on the geographical distance to the nearest wild Salmon river and the route and timing of the spawning migration of the wild populations.

The terminal fishery areas should be clearly identified, defined by the Contracting Parties and communicated to the IBSFC Secretariat.

RESOLUTION XVII

on Recovery Plan for the Baltic Cod

In conformity with the Long Term Management Strategy for Baltic Cod the Contracting Parties agree to establish a recovery plan for the Baltic cod. They also took note that the spawning biomass of the Western stock is above the agreed Bpa. The plan shall include the following elements.

I

1.   For 2002 the fishing mortality for the Eastern stock shall be      reduced to below Fpa and shall not be greater than 0.55 within a global TAC of 76 000 tonnes;

2.    Manage the fishery for Eastern cod stock in year 2003 and subsequent years with the objective of reducing the fishing mortality for Eastern Cod stock to below Fpa in order to ensure safe and rapid recovery of the spawning stock to levels in excess of 240 000 tonnes;

3.    Request ICES to evaluate the findings of the IBSFC Scientific meeting on Technical Measures for the Fisheries on Baltic Cod (Brussels 20 - 24 August 2001) and to provide advice and catch options for 2003 and subsequent years taking into account improved selectivity and additional technical measures;

II

1.      Extend the summer ban to the period from 1 June to 31 August;

2.      Establish spawning area closures in the Bornholm Deep;

3.  Establish additional spawning area closures in the Gdansk Deep and the Gotland Deep in the case of new scientific information;

4.    Fix the minimum mesh size for gill nets to 110 mm to be implemented from 1 September 2002;

5.    Establish the maximum length of gill nets per vessel fishing for cod : 

A.           For vessels with an overall length of up to and including 12 m limit the use of nets to a maximum length of 12km;

B.           For vessels with an overall length of more than 12 m limit the use of nets to a maximum length of 24 km;

6.  Establish a soak time when fishing with gill-nets of a maximum of 48 hours, the start and recovery time to be recorded in the fishing logbook;

7.      Improve the marking system and introduce a tagging system for gill-nets;

8.         Review the minimum landing size for Cod in the Baltic in the light of experience with the use of fishing gears with improved selectivity

9.   Set the by-catch of Cod (in weight) in the Herring and Sprat fisheries at 3 per cent of which a maximum of 5 per cent may be of under sized Cod,

10. Delete Fishing Rule 8.2 thereby prohibiting the landing of undersized cod;

11. Request ICES to review all relevant data related to the selectivity of Cod in the Baltic sea and to revisit the mesh size of the diamond 130mm mesh size with a view to establishing a mesh size ensuring a similar selectivity as the 120 mm BACOMA window;

12. Request the Working Group on Fisheries Rules to consider additional technical measures and provide proposals for amendments relating to fisheries rules that have an impact on Cod with the view to improve the recovery plan;

III

1.        Establish a comprehensive and efficient Control and Enforcement scheme (Action Plan) to support the Cod recovery plan consisting of the following main elements:

a.       Inspection Strategy

b.      Co-operation which will include, where practical, an exchange of fisheries inspectors on a bilateral basis in 2002 and in subsequent year.

c. Evaluation of the efficiency of the measures taken.

2.    In order to enforce the implementation of the cod recovery plan the Parties will notify the Secretariat of IBSFC of the results of the Action Plan. The IBSFC Secretariat will present a Report of the Action Plan at the 28^th Session of IBSFC.

 

RESOLUTION XVIII

on a Reporting Scheme on the Implementation of the "Baltic 21" Action Programme - Fisheries

For the purpose of the monitoring of the implementation of the "Baltic 21" Action Programme-Fisheries and in the interest of a unified reporting scheme of IBSFC, the Contracting Parties should report using the scheme enclosed.

Timing and frequency of the reporting should be commensurate with the "Baltic 21" biannual report.

INTRODUCTION

Timing and frequency of the Sector Reporting to "Baltic 21"

The first "Baltic 21" Biennial Report was produced in year 2000.

The Thirteenth Meeting of the "Baltic 21" Senior Officials Group (SOG)  on 29-30 November 2000 agreed that:

-         the next Biennial Report should be produced in year 2003.

That means that IBSFC as the Lead Party Fisheries should be prepared to start working on the Report in IV/2002.

Status of "Baltic 21" Reporting by the Fisheries Sector

The quality of the contribution of the Sector Fisheries to the First Biennial Report was different concerning the individual actions.

A good standard was achieved in the reporting to Priority Action 1:

-         Long Term Strategies for Major Stocks (Cod, Salmon, Pelagic Species)

There was also progress and real substance to report concerning Action 3:

-         to Increase Co-operation in the Field of Control and Enforcement

On the other hand there was a certain lack of information from the respective Coastal States on Actions beyond the mandate of IBSFC as an international organisation in particular concerning:

-         Restoration  of Habitats important to Fish and Fisheries in Inland Waters

-         Achieving Sustainable Aqua-culture.

1.      THE BALTIC SEA RESOURCES

The Member States of EC or the Contracting Parties to IBSFC are invited to report national initiatives and results under Priority Action 2-8. Actions taken within the framework of the IBSFC need not be reported here. Please do not forget to indicate under which priority action you are reporting.

Priority Action 1:        Long Term Strategies for major fish stocks

-         Baltic Cod Strategy Plan, 1999 onwards -         Salmon Action Plan, 1997 - 2010 -         Long Term Strategy for Pelagic Species, 1999 onwards Actors: IBSFC, Coastal States

National progress made by the Parties year 200_:

Name activity / project:

Duration (starting, ending year):

Budget, contributors and their shares:

Physical indicators of taken action (indicators as agreed so far for the biannual report and decisions taken by Annual Sessions):

[IBSFC responsibilities, do not fill anything]

Action 2:         To improve the management of resources in coastal areas

-         Increase the scientific knowledge of the biological status of flatfish stocks, in particular plaice, turbot and flounder -         Consider the establishment of catch limits for commercially exploited stocks -         Increase the scientific knowledge of eel and establish contact with the North West Atlantic Fishery Commission on the exploitation pattern in other areas -         Protect estuaries, shallow water areas and recruitment habitats for coastal water species Timeframe: 1999 onwards Actors: IBSFC, Coastal States

National progress made by the Parties year 200_:

Name activity / project:

Duration (starting, ending year):

Budget, contributors and their shares:

Expected results:

Physical indicators of taken action (can this be described/quantified with any kind of indicator?):

Achieved results:

Action 3:         To increase co-operation in the field of control and enforcement

-         Exchange of information on quota transfers to be improved by introduction of electronic data exchange -         Improve the reporting of landings by introducing an electronic network -         Landings for other purposes than human consumption should be monitored and sampled to increase knowledge of species composition -         Gradual introduction of electronic positioning system on fishing vessels fishing in the Baltic Sea -         Organise an annual meeting of fisheries control managers to exchange information, discuss problems, formulate proposals and improve the network -         Exchange of fisheries inspectors as observers on inspection vessels and at landing sites, as appropriate Timeframe: 1999 onwards Actors: IBSFC, EC, Coastal States

National progress made by the Parties year 200_:

Name activity / project:

Duration (starting, ending year):

Budget, contributors and their shares:

Expected results:

Physical indicators of taken action (can this be described/quantified with any kind of indicator?):

Achieved results:

Action 4:         To improve the quality of stock - and fisheries assessment

-         Improvement of research surveys, biological sampling, data processing and assessment methods -         Improvement of management decisions by providing socio-economic data to complement scientific assessments -         Further research on interactions between fish and marine mammals and marine birds and the quantification of by-catches and discards of fish, sea birds and marine mammals -         Further research on ecosystem effects of fishing like possible negative effects of various fishing techniques Timeframe: 1999 onwards Actors: Coastal States,  ICES, IBSFC

National progress made by the Parties year 200_:

Name activity / project:

Duration (starting, ending year):

Budget, contributors and their shares:

Expected results:

Physical indicators of taken action (can this be described/quantified with any kind of indicator?):

Achieved results:

2.      INLAND WATERS AND AQUACULTURE

The Parties are invited to report under Priority Action 5-7

Action 5: Sustainable use and preservation of freshwater fish stocks and species

-         Improve the scientific knowledge on fresh water species and standardising methods used in this field -         Mapping the genetic status of salmonid stocks -         Establish a common Red List of endangered species and elaborate recovery plans -         Suggesting management measures for sustainable use of exploited species Timeframe: 1999 onwards Actors: Coastal States,  ICES, EIFAC, HELCOM

National progress made by the Parties year 200_:

Name activity / project:

Duration (starting, ending year):

Budget, contributors and their shares:

Expected results:

Physical indicators of taken action (action to improve management  measures for sustainable use of exploited species, technical regulations of fisheries, recovery plans, other management measures or other indicators?):

Achieved results:

Action 6:         For restoration of habitats important to fish and fisheries in inland waters

-         Protecting estuaries, shallow water areas and recruitment habitats for coastal fresh water species -         Protecting and restoring spawning and nursery areas for commercial and endangered species in fresh waters, where appropriate -         Constructing fish ladders at dams and hydroelectric power stations, where appropriate Timeframe: 1999 onwards Actors: Coastal States,  EIFAC, HELCOM

National progress made by the Parties year 200_:

Name activity / project:

Duration (starting, ending year):

Budget, contributors and their shares:

Expected results:

Physical indicators of taken action (for example: length or area of reconstructed rivers, number of ladders, area of reconstructed spawning grounds, number of released fish, increased fish production protected areas in km² , restoration of damaged waters km² , etc.):

Achieved results:

Action 7:         To achieve sustainable aquaculture

-         Develop cost effective and environmentally safe technologies taking into account socio-economic aspects -         Co-ordinate research and education to stimulate the contribution of aquaculture to food supply -         Develop national programmes for balanced and genetically safe stocking -         Prevent or minimise water pollution; the spreading of diseases and interactions between wild and reared fish transgenetic impacts on wild stocks Timeframe: 1999 onwards Actors: Coastal States

National progress made by the Parties year 200_:

Name activity / project:

Duration (starting, ending year):

Budget, contributors and their shares:

Expected results:

Physical indicators of taken action (environmental impact assessments, introduction of improved techniques, water quality monitoring activities, planning of suitable areas of aquaculture activities, licensing of activities, number of units brought up to environmental standards, numbers of units receiving improvement systems etc.):

Achieved results:

3.      ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL ASPECTS OF THE FISHERIS SECTOR

The Parties are invited to report under Priority Action 8

Action 8:         To improve economic and social stability of the fisheries sector

-         Reconsider different elements of national programmes for the fisheries sector as appropriate -         Encourage more active participation of the fishing industry in formulating strategies for the fisheries sector -         Improve sanitary and hygienic standards on board vessels, in landing sites and fish auctions and markets -         Increase and develop the utilisation of fish for human consumption, ensuring a greater participation of the fisheries sector in the contribution of food supplies to Baltic region -         Bringing fishing effort into line with available resources, where appropriate through the restructuring of national fishery fleet segments Timeframe: 1999 onwards Actors: Coastal States

National progress made by the Parties year 200_:

Name activity / project:

Duration (starting, ending year):

Budget, contributors and their shares:

Expected results:

Physical indicators of taken action (like training courses for fishermen, number of participants, quality labelling of fish products, certification, quality improvement of fishing vessels on board, number of projects/vessels, improvement of fishing harbours, promotion campaigns, etc.):

Achieved results:

Resolution XIX on a harvesting strategy for Baltic Salmon in terminal fishery areas

(adopted by the 28^th Session, September 2002)

 

In conformity with the Salmon Action Plan and the IBSFC Resolution XVI and with the objectives of:

a) shifting the fishery from the mixed wild and reared population fishery to a fishery targeting mainly reared populations,

b) optimising the exploitation of reared Salmon,

the Contracting Parties adopt the following strategy on the establishment of terminal fishery, fishing possibilities for surplus reared Salmon and the selective harvesting of them.

1.          Fixing of fishing possibilities on surplus reared salmon

The IBSFC will at its Annual Session establish the fishing possibilities for total surplus reared Salmon. The fishing possibilities shall be based on scientific advice from ICES on the available amount of non-exploited reared Salmon and shall be expressed in total number of specimen.

2.           Allocation of fishing possibilities on surplus  reared salmon

The proportion of the total fishing possibilities on surplus reared Salmon allocated to a Contracting Party will be equal to the average number of Salmon smolt released by the Contracting Party in the three preceding years divided by the average total number of Salmon smolt released by all Parties in that period.

Each Contracting Party shall notify the IBSFC and the other Contracting Parties every year not later than 30 November on the number of surplus reared Salmon within their allocation which they plan to utilise the following year.

3.          The link with the management of the mixed fishery

The Salmon quota allocated to the respective Contracting Party under the IBSFC Salmon TACs shall be automatically reduced by the number of Salmon corresponding to 50 % of the surplus reared Salmon which the respective Contracting Party has notified the IBSFC to utilise.

Immediately after the TAC recommendations on Salmon have entered into force, the IBSFC shall inform Contracting Parties on the resulting number of Salmon each Contracting Party can take based on the above notification.

This yearly adjustment of number of Salmon available for each Contracting Party has no influence on the Salmon TAC allocation keys.

4.          Conditions for utilisation of fishing possibilities in terminal fisheries

The fishing possibilities in terminal fisheries may only be utilised if the following conditions are fulfilled:

4.1 Catches may only be taken at terminal fisheries areas as identified and defined by the Contracting Parties in accordance with the IBSFC Resolution XVI and communicated to the IBSFC Secretariat and Contracting Parties.

4.2 Before the respective Contracting Party can initiate the terminal fishery it shall provide scientific information and demonstrate that this fishery can be conducted without catches of wild Salmon or if wild Salmon is caught, it can be released in an uninjured state and  the additional mortality to which it is exposed  during the catching process is insignificant. The scientific information will be reviewed by ICES.

4.3 The fishery on surplus reared Salmon can only be conducted if the respective Contracting Party participates in the comprehensive adipose fin clipping programme described in section 5. The comprehensive fin clipping programme will allow distinction between wild and reared Salmon and will provide evidence if the number of wild Salmon caught is insignificant.

4.4 In the surplus reared Salmon terminal fishery only Salmon marked in accordance with 4.3 or Salmon caught in terminal fisheries that in accordance with 4.3 have been proved to take only an insignificant number of wild Salmon is allowed to be landed.

4.5 The fishery shall be closely monitored, and the respective Contracting Party shall report to the IBSFC on the number of Salmon caught in each terminal fishery area and the composition of the catches.

4.6 Release activities of reared smolt and earlier Salmon life stages shall be closely monitored.

5.          Comprehensive Adipose fin clipping programme

The Contracting Parties conducting fisheries on surplus reared Salmon are committed to participate in a comprehensive fin clipping programme to be co-ordinated by the IBSFC.

Under this programme all reared Salmon released in at least a three years  period preferably starting in  2004 must be marked by cutting off the adipose fin.

The IBSFC and the Contracting Parties will explore possibilities of financial support for the implementation of this programme.

 

Resolution XX on the Management Plan for the Cod Stocks in the Baltic Sea

(adopted by the Extraordinary Session, June 2003)

 

IBSFC agrees to implement the following management plan for the two cod stocks, Eastern and Western Stocks, which is consistent with the precautionary approach, ensures sustainable exploitation and provides for stable and high yield. This management plan replaces IBSFC resolutions X and XVII.

1.      Management targets

The management targets are to maintain the Spawning Stock Biomass (SSB) at levels greater than 23,000 tonnes for the Western stock and 240,000 tonnes for the Eastern stock.

2.      Management areas

The Contracting Parties agree to implement two management areas, one for the Western cod stock and one for the Eastern cod stock.

3.      Setting total allowable catches

a)      IBSFC shall only adopt TACs that are predicted by ICES to generate an annual fishing mortality rate not exceeding 0.6 for the Eastern stock and 1.0 for the Western stock.

 

b)      Where the SSB is estimated by ICES to be greater than or equal to the target levels defined in chapter 1, the TACs shall not exceed a level which, according to ICES, will result in the SSB being below the target levels at the end of the year of the application of the TACs.

 

Within the constraints laid down in paragraph 3a, the TACs shall not be set at levels which are more than 15% less or 15% greater than the TACs of the preceding year.

 

c)      Where the SSB is estimated by ICES to be less than the target levels defined in chapter 1 but above 9,000 tonnes for the Western stock and 160,000 tonnes for the Eastern stock, the following rules shall apply:

 

i)        the TAC shall be fixed at a level which, according to ICES, will result in an increase of at least 30% in the SSB or in a SSB greater than the target levels, defined in chapter 1, at the end of the year of the application of the TAC;

 

ii)       where it will not be possible, according to ICES, to achieve the increase in the SSB indicated in paragraph 3a, the TAC shall be set at the lowest possible level.

 

Within the constraints laid down in paragraph 3a, the TACs shall not be set at levels, which are more than 15% less or 15% greater than the TACs of the preceding year.

 

d)      Where the SSB is estimated by ICES to be less than 9,000 tonnes for the Western stock or 160,000 tonnes for the Eastern stock, the following rules shall apply:

 

i)        the TAC shall be fixed at a level which, according to ICES, will result in the SSB being above these levels at the end of the year of the application of the TAC and will give an increase of at least 30% in the SSB;

 

ii)       where it will not be possible, according to ICES, to increase the SSB to 9,000 tonnes for the Western stock or 160,000 tonnes for the Eastern stock within one year, the TAC shall be set at the lowest possible level.

4. Technical measures limiting fishing effort and mortality

a)      IBSFC shall provide for consistency between gear selectivity and the minimum landing size for cod, in order to reduce discards and fishing mortality on juvenile cod.

 

b)      The minimum landing size of 38 cm for cod shall be kept under regular review. In accordance with the development in the stocks and the selectivity in the fisheries, the minimum landing size shall be revised no later than 2005 with a view to adopting an increase to apply from 2006.

 

c)      IBSFC shall, for all fisheries targeting cod, from 2003 keep under regular review the development in the fishing activities, including the impact of closed areas and seasons, and gear regulations in terms of control, conservation and sustainable exploitation objectives. On the basis of scientific advice and any review carried out, IBSFC shall adopt, where appropriate, adjustments to the fishery rules.

5. Control and enforcement

 

The Contracting Parties of IBSFC shall continue their co-operation on control and enforcement with the aim of establishing a comprehensive and efficient Control and Enforcement Scheme, which supports this management plan and ensures compliance with IBSFC recommendations and Fishery Rules.

6.          Review of the management plan

This management plan shall be reviewed as necessary, on the basis on scientific information and advice, not later than 2006.

 

Resolution XXI on management areas for Herring

 

(adopted by the 29^th Session, September 2003)

 

The Contracting Parties agreed to implement four management areas for Herring: Northern Area (subdivisions 30 and 31), Central Area (subdivisions 25-29+32, excluding Gulf of Riga), Gulf of Riga and Western Area (subdivisions 22-24).

 

The Contracting Parties further agreed that the allocation of fishing possibilities between the Contracting parties shall inter alia reflect the historical fishing possibilities, geographical fishing pattern and be based on the catch data used by ICES in the assessment of the Herring stocks.

 

Resolution XXII on mixed pelagic fisheries

 

(adopted by the 29^th Session, September 2003)

 

The Contracting Parties recognize the conservation problems for the Central Baltic Herring stocks in sub-divisions 25-29 and 32 (excluding Gulf of Riga) arising from the by-catches of Herring (up to 35%) in mixed pelagic fisheries targeting Sprat.

 

The Contracting Parties agreed to implement measures to ensure that the species composition in mixed pelagic fisheries is sampled and that the species caught in these fisheries are accounted against the appropriate quotas.

 

The Parties will report on progress on this matter to ICES and the 30^th session of IBSFC 

 

Resolution XXIII on revision of the TAC for Cod

 

(adopted by the 29^th Session, September 2003)

 

The Contracting Parties agreed that the TAC set for Cod for 2004 is to be considered as a preliminary TAC and shall be revised in the light of updated catch forecasts for the Cod stocks for 2004 based on information on catches of Cod in 2003 to be presented by ICES not later than 1 February 2004.

 

Based on a proposal for a recommendation on a revised TAC the Contracting Parties agreed to consider and vote on the proposal within two weeks after the proposal has been tabled.

 

 

 

Resolution XXIV on the closure of the Gotland Deep and Gdansk Deep

 

(adopted by the 29^th Session, September 2003)

 

Pursuant to the advice of ICES, to be provided before 15.04.2004, on areas within the Gotland Deep and Gdansk Deep where the hydrological conditions allow for a successful Cod spawning in 2004, the Contracting Parties will consider closure of the said areas in order to protect Cod spawning in 2004.

 

Based on a proposal for a recommendation on closure of the Cod fishing in the areas identified by ICES, the Contracting Parties agree to consider and, if appropriate, vote on the recommendation within two weeks after it has been tabled.

 

Resolution XXV on an Inspection Scheme Monitoring Compliance with BACOMA

(adopted by the 29^th Session, September 2003)

 

In compliance with Resolution XX on the Management Plan for Cod Stocks in the Baltic sea, the Contracting Parties adopt the following Specific Inspection Scheme Monitoring compliance with BACOMA.

Pursuant to the recommendation of the IBSFC Extraordinary Session held on 27 June 2003 on the adoption of the 110mm[1] Top Window Cod- end .BACOMA. measures for vessels fishing for cod with trawls and Danish seines to come into force on the 1^st October 2003. However, it was agreed that Contracting Parties could introduce the new measures on the 1^st September on the conclusion of the Cod Summer Ban.  The present scheme of inspection and surveillance in port and at sea is based on the following elements.

All Coastal States shall develop co-ordinated program for the inspection of BACOMA. To this end they shall deploy adequate resources and agree on:

1.  ASHORE

·              The co-ordinated periods of inspection;

·              The setting of bench marks for inspections of vessels;

·              The inspection form to be used.

·              The exchange of inspectors

(1)               Inspections of the vessels in port shall verify:

·         Compliance with gear requirements (Technical checks on square mesh panels, mesh size, cod- end circumference, twine thickness and other requirement);

·              Compliance with gear carriage restrictions;

·              Compliance with specific rules regarding catch composition;

·              Logbook entries for the inspected and previous trips.

2.  At SEA

(1)        Each Coastal State shall deploy adequate resources at sea to inspect trawlers with catches of cod operating in its waters. Each Coastal State shall set benchmarks for inspection of their fishing vessels with the objective of inspecting 5 % of all their flag vessels fishing with trawls for demersal species.

(2)       Inspections conducted at sea shall verify:

·         Compliance with gear requirements (Technical checks on square mesh panels, mesh size, cod end circumference, twine thickness and other requirement);

·              Compliance with gear carriage restrictions;

·              Compliance with specific rules regarding catch composition;

·              Logbook entries for the inspected and previous trips (gear and catch composition).

(3)        The results of inspections at sea shall be recorded on the prescribed inspection form.

3. The Inspection Scheme will apply from 01.11.2003 until 31.12.2004.

 

Resolution XXVI on the improvement of control and enforcement of unreported catches in the Baltic Sea

 

 (adopted by the 29^th Session, September 2003)

 

The Contracting Parties expresses their deep concern on the unreported catches and underline the need to further enhance collaboration on control and enforcement.

 

A major effort will be required in order to address the difficulties of unreported catches and to ensure that the means of inspection and surveillance is available in the Baltic Sea in order to establish equal treatment.  Enhanced inspection operations between national authorities will contribute to the credibility of inspection and surveillance activities.

 

In the current situation the Contracting Parties should undertake the commitment to adopt in the shortest time comprehensive and efficient measures to enhance the control and enforcement addressing the improvement of cod catch reporting and elimination of unauthorized landings.

 

The Contracting Parties therefore advocates an integrated strategy, i.e. control at sea, landings and transshipments, which should be the long-term basis for the establishment of sustainable fisheries in the Baltic Sea.

 

 

Resolution XXVII on the improvement of the state of wild Salmon populations in the Gulf of Finland

 

(adopted by the 29^th Session, September 2003)

 

 

The Parties acknowledge that the state of the wild Salmon populations in the Gulf of Finland gives rise to great concern. They therefore declare their determination to make strong efforts, not least within the framework of the Salmon Action Plan Surveillance Group, to consider and elaborate measures, which are suitable for the protection of wild Salmon populations in the Gulf of Finland.

 

 

Resolution XXVIII

on the closure of the Gotland Deep and Gdansk Deep

(adopted during the 30^th Session, September 2004)

 

Pursuant to the advice of ICES, to be provided before 15.04.2005, on areas within the Gotland Deep and Gdansk Deep where the hydrological conditions allow for a successful Cod spawning in 2005, the Contracting Parties will consider closure of the said areas in order to protect Cod spawning in 2005.

 

Based on a proposal for a recommendation on closure of the Cod fishing in the areas identified by ICES, the Contracting Parties agree to consider and, if appropriate, vote on the recommendation within two weeks after it has been tabled.

 

 

Resolution XXIX

 on further improvement of control and enforcement

(adopted during the 30^th Session, September 2004)

 

Against the background of the persistent difficulties of unreported catches of cod in the Baltic Sea, which give rise to serious concerns, the Contracting Parties are determined to take further steps to improve control and enforcement, in line with the objectives set out in IBSFC Resolution XXVI.

 

The Contracting Parties commit themselves to developing by the 1^st of January 2005, comprehensive and efficient control and enforcement measures to address the elimination of unrecorded landings of cod and the improvement of catch reporting.

 

Such measures shall encompass, inter alia, the following:

• Establishing lists of vessels that are actively engaged in cod fishing,
• a fishing permit scheme with specific conditions for cod fishery,
• limiting fishing effort,
• designated ports for cod landings,
• prior notification of cod landings,
• extended use of Vessel Monitoring Systems (VMS),
• improving registration of catches,
• an appropriate system of sanctions,
• ensuring that technical conservation measures are enforceable,
• including buyers and processors in inspection activities, and
• co-operating between Coastal States on joint enforcement and inspections.

 

 

 

Resolution XXX

 on the quality of the ICES advice on eastern cod

(adopted during the 30^th Session, September 2004)

 

The Contracting Parties acknowledge that the state of the eastern cod stock is a major concern that continues to require determined action based on scientific advice. In this context, the Parties express their great concern over the high level of uncertainty in the advice provided by ICES, which gives rise to severe difficulties in the management of this stock, which is of great importance for all Parties. The advice on the eastern cod submitted to the IBSFC for its 30^th Session has not provided the Parties with a clear basis for action, which is very unfortunate.

 

Against this background, the Contracting Parties request that the Chairman of the IBSFC sends a letter to ICES, underlining the importance for the work in IBSFC of receiving high quality scientific advice, expressing the Commission.s commitment to cooperate with ICES to enhance the quality of the scientific advice on the cod stocks and in this context requesting ICES to give priority to the Baltic cod.

 

The Parties further agree to recommend their national scientific bodies that research on Baltic cod be enhanced.

 

 

Resolution XXXI

 on the introduction of trawls using 90º turned diamond meshes

(adopted during the 30^th Session, September 2004)

 

 

Taking note of ICES advice on the selective properties of trawls using 90º turned diamond meshes, the Contracting Parties agree to allow for this type of gear when fishing for cod.

 

The Contracting Parties recognized that before this type of trawl can be introduced into the IBSFC Fishery Rules a detailed specification of the trawl is needed. The Contracting Parties therefore agreed to develop a technical specification and to revert to this matter when such a specification has been developed.