Pinger feasibility study: engaging with stakeholders on the feasibility of using pingers to manage harbour porpoise bycatch from static nets {MMO1477}
This study assessed the costs and feasibility of introducing pingers (acoustic devices that reduce porpoise bycatch) on the under 12m static-net fleet. Stakeholder engagement in the southwest provided evidence for policy recommendations and for developing an adaptable economic modelling framework, which can estimate the number of pingers and expected costs.
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Pingers (acoustic devices) are required on the over 12m static-net fleet to reduce harbour porpoise bycatch. This study assessed the costs and feasibility of introducing pingers on the under 12m static-net fleet. Evidence - collected through an expert advisory group, a data review and stakeholder engagement in the southwest - was used to develop an economic modelling framework, designed to be adapted to different scenarios. The framework used total net (in use and stored) to estimate the number of pingers and costs, including installation, operational and programme costs. Following the modelling and stakeholder feedback, policy recommendations are made to support future bycatch mitigation.