Timely information on fishing effort, catch and bycatch is required to meet NOAA Fisheries' objectives to protect and preserve marine resources. Timeliness of reporting may become even more critical if, as is likely, Hawaiian fisheries become participants in additional international fishery management regimes. In Hawaii's longline fisheries an electronic logbook program provides the best mechanism for acquiring timely information. Traditional paper logbook forms require the signature of the vessel operator on each page. The signatures on these forms are used not only to confirm the identity of the fisher but also to provide evidence of deliberation and informed consent that the information placed on the form is true, accurate, and complete in the event a dispute arises and the government needs to protect its interests.
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