The seismic survey vessel Ocean Explorer started acquisition of seismic data north of Senja, on Troms II. There is little fishery activity in the area and the survey activity is proceeding as planned.

Acquisition of seismic data in Vesterålen started two days ago, and is also going as planned so far. The Norwegian Petroleum Directorate (NPD) has commissioned the acquisition of seismic data on behalf of the Storting (Norwegian Parliament).

The research project designed to study the startle response of seismic surveys on fish is also proceeding according to plan. The project aims to obtain new knowledge about the startle response and how long it takes for fishery activity to normalise after seismic data acquisition. The project is being carried out by the Institute of Marine Research (HI) on behalf of the NPD and has a total cost framework of NOK 25 million.

HI designed the project with input from a reference group where both fishery organisations and local politicians are represented. HI has hired five local fishing vessels which started test fishing on 17 June, 12 days before the seismic data acquisition activity started in Vesterålen. The fishing vessels will carry out fishing throughout the entire seismic survey period, which runs to 9 August. Test fishing will continue after the acquisition activity is concluded, until the fishing has normalised. The research vessel Håkon Mosby is also participating along with the fishing vessels in the research project, which is the largest ever implemented worldwide.

Tags: Norwegian Petroleum Directorate