Fair and sustainable monitoring of shrimp fishing
Commissioned by the Ministry of LVVN (Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature), Nolemmings contributed to the development and validation of new black box systems for monitoring Dutch shrimp fishing.
The goal: improve reliability and maintain support among fishers.
Challenge
The existing black box systems were not reliable under all conditions. Fishers had to choose their own systems, which often functioned differently. This led to confusion and unequal enforcement. There was a need for a single uniform system that works well on every vessel — and a platform that gives both inspectors and fishers insight into catch locations and compliance.
Our Approach
Nolemmings was responsible for the analysis, validation, and translation of user needs into technical specifications. We:
tested and compared the performance of black box systems under realistic conditions
validated sensor recordings against observations from NVWA inspectors
supported the development of a portal for both fishers and inspectors
provided technical project management and communication with vendors
developed a location- and speed-based method to detect fishing activity — even without machine learning
This approach opened up possibilities for smaller vessels that are not required to carry a black box.
Result
The new black box systems proved reliable in practice
The algorithm for detecting fishing activity came close to the performance of physical systems
Both NVWA and fishers gained better insights into compliance via the platform
Monitoring became fairer, more consistent, and future-proof
Small vessels can now also be monitored more easily in the future
Want to know more?
Interested in how we can help improve your chain or system using data, sensors, and smart interpretation? Contact us at info@nolemmings.nl or schedule a meeting with one of our advisors.
