PROVIDE THE VMS DATA TO MANAGE FISHERY PROGRAMS IN THE UNITED STATES AND CANADA   The first stage in implementing a sustainable marine resources management policy is the deployment of a satellite-based system for monitoring and managing fisheries, called a Vessel Monitoring System (VMS). Fishing licenses are issued to fishermen on condition that they install and activate a satellite location beacon on board their vessel. The data transmitted by the beacon (location and fishing report) is used to monitor fishing activity from land. CLS America has developed a range of equipment suited to both industrial and small-scale fishing. In addition to monitoring applications, CLS America also supplies a service to estimate catch effort on the basis of VMS data. This provides governments with statistics that are both dynamic and reliable.

THE FIGHT AGAINST ILLEGAL, UNDECLARED AND UNREGULATED FISHING   The use of VMS enables the identification of licensed vessels carrying a transmitter. By superimposing VMS data on satellite radar images provided by CLS America, it is possible to detect vessels fishing illegally. CLS America also offers a range of shore-based radar systems using operating principle, together with an Automatic Identification System (AIS) solution for managing in-shore activity. CLS America has also developed receiver systems enabling patrol vessels and reconnaissance aircraft to access VMS data transmitted by fishing vessels directly. This solution, together with the oceanographic data used to define patrol areas, increases the effectiveness of control operations at sea and reduces their cost.

MODELING MARINE ECOSYSTEMS AND IMPLEMENTING A FISHERIES MANAGEMENT PROGRAM   In order to improve the definition of fisheries management policies, CLS Group has developed of marine ecosystems models from the base of the food chain (plankton) to the population dynamics of exploited or protected species. These models simulate changes to the total ecosystem in response to climate change and fishing pressures. They may also be used to analyze the impact of fisheries management or species conservation programs (definition of protected marine areas, etc.). These decision aids assist fishery managers in the preparation of appropriate seasonal or annual regulations, urgent conservation measures, and long-term fisheries management programs.

ASSISTING THE DEVELOPMENT OF LOCAL FISHERIES   In order to minimize the social impact of conservation measures implemented as part of a managed exploitation program and to guarantee the future of the industry, CLS Group offers a range of oceanographic and meteorological charts for use by government authorities.