OPC Fisher Shares Top Prize For Seabird Safety Initiatives

Media release from Aotearoa Fisheries Ltd

OPC Fisher Shares Top Prize For Seabird Safety Initiatives
The joint winners of the 2012 Seabird SMART Awards were announced this morning in Wellington. Fisherman, Adam Clow, shares the top award with Zak Olsen for his innovative approach to reducing risks to seabirds.

The awards were founded by Southern Seabird Solutions Trust in 2005 to provide recognition and encouragement for those who demonstrate passion and commitment to reducing risks to seabirds.
So what is Seabird SMART Fishing?
Safeguard seabirds,
Mitigate risks,
Avoid attracting seabirds,
Report seabird captures,
Treat and release with care.

Adam Clow is a snapper long-liner and skipper of Southern Cross. He’s a contract fisherman to OPC Fish and Lobster who are based in Whitianga. Adam says “Fishing is in my blood. I’ve been fishing with my father since I could walk. I love it. We’re nature lovers on our boat – we really care about what goes on. We’re not reinventing the wheel – other long-line crews are doing what we’re doing. I believe younger fishermen’s mindsets have changed. They are there to do their job having as little impact on the environment as they can”.

OPC Fish and Lobster is a division of Aotearoa Fisheries Limited and CEO Carl Carrington says “I’m delighted for Adam and congratulate him on his prestigious award. We’re all charged with the responsibility of looking after our environment no matter what industry we’re in.

Unfortunately, seabirds have learned behaviour of foraging for food at the back of fishing vessels. There are a lot of fishermen like Adam out there that go the extra mile to deter seabirds and keep them safe. It’s fantastic to see his efforts rewarded.”

ENDS

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