Barbados’ fisheries industry has taken a significant step towards modernisation with the deployment of smart scales and vessel monitoring systems, aimed at enhancing traceability, sustainability, and compliance.
With a US$100 000 ($200 000) grant over two years, the initiative marks a transformative shift in the industry, a top industry official has said.
On Friday, during a demonstration showcase at the Fisheries Division, Chief Fisheries Officer Shelly-Ann Cox confirmed that the installation of the smart scales began three months ago, with the latest unit becoming fully operational this week.
“With anything, there were some challenges, particularly with the weight sensors,” Cox said. “The team worked around the clock, and last night, everything functioned properly, allowing the first tag to be printed. From today, the system is fully operational.”
Two smart scales have been introduced—a smaller one deployed at Pile Bay and a larger unit at the Bridgetown Fisheries Complex, designed to weigh up to 200 pounds of bigeye and yellowfin tuna, catering to the export market. The installation supports better fisheries management by providing accurate data on fish landings, helping to assess stock levels and sustainability.
“This will give us the data we need to improve fisheries management. It enables us to track how long fishing trips last, where vessels are operating, and whether fishers are exerting more effort to catch the same amount of fish. That’s a key indicator of resource depletion.”
The vessel monitoring system (VMS), which tracks fleet activity, has now been installed on 80 boats, following disruptions caused by Hurricane Beryl. Cox indicated that approximately 250 vessels are currently active, with efforts underway to return to pre-hurricane levels of 312.
The VMS provides critical insights into fleet movements, supporting safety and compliance. “We’ve recorded boats going up to 800 miles offshore to catch tuna for export,” Cox revealed. “With this system, fisheries authorities, the Coast Guard, and marine police can monitor fleet activity in real time.”
Cox also highlighted concerns regarding illegal fishing activity beyond Barbados’ 200-nautical-mile exclusive economic zone.
“We have observed some vessels fishing beyond our borders in areas where they are not permitted. This presents challenges for enforcement and resource sustainability. The VMS allows us to identify these incidents and work with regional authorities to address them.”
Chief Fisheries Officer Shelly-Ann Cox speaking to the attendees during the demonstration showcase. (SZB)
She further explained that the data collected belongs to boat owners who have voluntarily opted into the system. However, upcoming legislation will mandate VMS installation across the fleet.
“We wanted to introduce this in a positive light, emphasising its benefits rather than as a strict enforcement tool.”
The initiative is part of a broader collaboration with Blue Shell Productions, Remora Fishing Traceability, Mr Fish Inc., and Export Barbados.
Juan Carlos Marti Revelo, CEO of Remora, emphasised the impact of technology in fisheries.
“For some of us, this journey has taken five years,” he said. “Our goal is to bring transparency and efficiency to fisheries. The smart scale correlates catch weight with trip distance, providing valuable data on fish stocks and sustainability.”
The technology not only aids fisheries management but also supports compliance with international seafood traceability standards, crucial for accessing premium eco-friendly markets.
Cox added that an application for additional funding was sent to Compete Caribbean, the Inter-American Development Bank’s private sector development programme, to equip more vessels with monitoring systems and install additional smart scales at Oistins and Consett Bay.
The chief fisheries officer said: “These systems enhance monitoring, promote safety at sea, and ensure accurate data collection. Every month, we report landings data to the Central Bank, Statistical Services, and the Ministry of Agriculture. This helps policymakers understand the sector’s contribution to the economy.”
sheriabrathwaite@barbadostoday.bb
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