Product Type: Fisheries
Stage: Production & Harvesting
Problem: Wasteful fishery mortality and by-catch
Solution: Commercializing precision seafood harvesting technology after ten years of research and development

1. Technology: Fish are strained during harvest, exhausting and damaging them during harvesting. Research program developed validation methods for sustainability, maintenance of quality and value during harvest. Technology aims to create low-stress and low-damage conditions for fish. The tubular net, the PSH Modular Harvesting system allows release of small fish and unwanted species before catch is lifted onboard. Metrics for post-harvest validation of fish quality once landed on the boat was cross-referenced to product demand and market price to validate practices and technology. Regulatory change and channels for distribution are being developed to introduce the system into commercial use.
   
2. Data collection and continuing observation: Post-harvest assessment team documented catch composition, size, and quality. This data was applied to develop handling and storage systems focusing on quality through improved survival rates of catch and non-intended catch (juvenile fish and by-catch). Data collection is being used to compel and develop regulatory changes and compare technology to traditional trawl gear. Survival rates for juvenile fish and by-catch is higher with the new technology.