The Government is to launch a new mobile application to update the management of the island’s marine resources.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources said that the new Shellcatch Bermuda app, hoped to be formally launched this month, would streamline the licensing process, simplify catch reporting for fishers and gather information for scientific research and enforcement work.

A government spokesman said that as part of the Bermuda Ocean Prosperity Programme, the Government partnered with Shellcatch, an “experienced developer of fisheries data management software”, to create a cloud-based platform to fit Bermuda’s needs.

“This ambitious project was made possible with funding and technical support through the BOPP partnership,” he said. “The fishing community has long requested a user-friendly, app-based reporting system.

“In response, DENR worked closely with experienced commercial and recreational fishers to gather input on the app’s user interface and functionality.

“By incorporating their feedback, this new platform aims to streamline the submission of the catch data, which plays a vital role in guiding fisheries management.”

Walter Roban, the Minister of Home Affairs, added: “Being able to report catch data using a smartphone app will be easier and more convenient for fishers, and the new dashboard will allow them to track their catches and check that their reports are up to date.

“Furthermore, an efficient data management system is critical to advancing BOPP's goal of having sustainable commercial and recreational fisheries.

“The modular design of the Shellcatch platform allows for future upgrades, ensuring it can adapt to the evolving needs of DENR and the fishing community.

“In fact, there are some exciting upgrades in the pipeline already.”

The Government said that while the full launch was scheduled for this month, some local lobster divers took part in a soft launch.

The spokesman added that DENR staff will host information sessions for commercial and recreational fishers to offer guidance on how to use the new online portal and app to report fishing activities and catch data.

“As a reminder, the current fisheries database will be offline by the end of September,” the spokesman warned.

Fishers who report their catches online must contact fisheries@gov.bm to ensure they are registered on the new platform.