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Trackwell has successfully implemented its state-of-the-art Vessel Monitoring System (VMS) for the Government of the Falkland Islands. Trackwell’s FiMS solution is a cornerstone of the Falkland Islands’ comprehensive Fisheries Monitoring, Control, and Surveillance (MCS) efforts.
The Fisheries Department, part of the Directorate of Natural Resources, manages the system from its Fisheries Monitoring Centre (FMC) in Stanley. This cloud-hosted solutionenhances surveillance and monitoring capabilities of the Falkland Islands, supporting sustainable fisheries management and scientific research.
Strengthening fisheries monitoring & management with Trackwell FiMS
The Falkland Islands’ vast Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and high seas areas, spanning the southwest Atlantic, present unique maritime monitoring and surveillance challenges. The Trackwell FiMS software is instrumental in overseeing both the Falklands’ domestic fleet and foreign fishing vessels operating under bilateral agreements with nations such as Spain, Taiwan, and South Korea. Furthermore, the system provides crucial monitoring for a large number of vessels fishing in the internationally sensitive area known as the ‘Blue Hole’ on the High Seas.
To effectively ensure compliance and sustainability, the Falkland Islands utilize their Fisheries Protection Vessel, FPV Lilibet, for on-site monitoring and safeguarding valuable fish and squid stocks. The VMS also efficiently tracks visiting non-fishing vessels, including up to 50 cruise ships that typically arrive during the austral summer season.
Commitment to sustainability
The fishing industry is one of the backbones of the Falkland Islands’ economy, operating in a marine environment rich in biodiversity. The government enforces strict legal and conservation measures to protect habitats and ensure long-term sustainability. Industry-provided data continues to improve knowledge on marine species, while collaborative efforts with research institutions further strengthen conservation initiatives.
A unique aspect of Falklands’ fisheries is that two squid species—Patagonian and shortfin squid—account for 75% of total annual catches. If you’ve eaten calamari in Southern Europe, there’s a high chance it originated from the Falklands. Both Patagonian squid and shortfin squid are harvested within the Falklands’ EEZ.
While the fishery has been economically transformative, the primary management objective remains the long-term sustainability of marine resources. Preventing illegal fishing and overfishing of key species, such as squid and hake, is essential to protecting stocks for future generations.
The implementation of Trackwell FiMS plays a critical role in ensuring compliance with international fisheries regulations, while enhancing real-time monitoring of fishing activities. These advancements help safeguard the sustainability of Falkland Islands fisheries.
A future-focused approach to Falkland Islands fisheries management
The Falkland Islands’ fisheries are continuously evolving, driving economic growth while solidifying their role in global fisheries management. Transitioning to a stable, long-term fisheries management system is crucial for fostering collaboration between industry stakeholders and research institutions. The successful implementation of Trackwell FiMS represents a major milestone in ensuring the ongoing success of Falkland Islands fisheries, safeguarding their sustainability, and reinforcing their position as a key player in the global fisheries community.
