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- Effort estimates developed through establishment of a system 

 whereby different types of vessels can be compared. Present 

 systems are complex and often inaccurate. It may well be that 

 the energy required to construct, maintain, and operate a 

 trawler is closely related to its likely harvest. If so, 

 initial establishment of energy subsidies required for differ- 

 ent vessels, once established, will provide effort estimates 

 based on number of vessels and number of days seen on the 

 grounds. 



- Development of a system whereby the species composition of 

 fishmeal can be determined during inspections. Without 

 observers on vessels, such a system is absolutely necessary 

 to estimate the yields from unrecorded mixed fisheries. 



Concurrent with development of precise catch and effort figures, continua- 

 tion of resource abundance surveys should be established in the following 

 manner : 



• Provision of a series of new research vessels for offshore survey 

 work: 



- Rather than refurbishing existing vessels, construct or purchase 

 new vessels that would be utilized entirely for survey work . In 

 this manner, expand offshore surveys from twice a year to four 

 times a year. Develop a survey system that is based upon well- 

 maintained, dependable vessels rather than the present reliance 



on vessels likely to break down. If new vessels are not available, 

 restrict operations on existing vessels for surveys only . Cer- 

 tainly the fact that the fishery resources now under United States 

 jurisdiction comprise one-fifth of potential worldwide demersal 

 yield argue for adequate survey tools. 



While the Jones Act presently restricts the purchase of 

 foreign-built vessels, the fact remains that recent rises 

 in operating costs have forced Canadian (and other) mid- 

 size stern trawlers to be offered for sale. One American 

 corporation has purchased such a vessel . The advantages 

 with such vessels are clear: 



- Although used, they tend to be well -maintained and 

 are relatively new; 



- Purchase price is very cheap when compared to a new 

 American vessel ; 



- Conversion would be rapid and efficient. Placement 

 of laboratory space in the former fish hold will 

 provide an environment that can be controlled, is 

 large, and situated where there is least motion. 



