Yalu Estuary Manila Clam Fishery MSC Fishery Assessment Report

SCS Global Services Report

Announcement Comment Draft Report

Authors Client Contact Dr. Rob Blyth-Skyrme—Lead & Taihong Food Co. Ltd.

Principle 2 1, Wenyuan Road

Dr. Mikio Moriyasu—Principle 1 Economic Development Zone, Dr. Jocelyn Drugan—Principle 3 Donghong City,

Liaoning Province, China

[email protected] +86-0415-3338888

January 7, 2019

2000 Powell Street, Ste. 600, Emeryville, CA 94608 USA +1.510.452.8000 main | +1.510.452.8001 fax www.SCSglobalServices.com

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Table of Contents

1 Glossary ...... 7 3 Executive Summary ...... 8 4 Report Details ...... 11 4.1 Authorship and peer review details ...... 11 4.2 Version details ...... 12 5 Units of Assessment and Certification, and results overview ...... 13 5.1 Unit of Assessment (UoA) and Unit of Certification (UoC) ...... 13 5.1.1 Fishery Operations Overview ...... 13 5.1.2 Unit of Assessment ...... 17 5.1.3 Unit of Certification ...... 22 5.2 Assessment results overview ...... 23 5.2.1 Determination, formal conclusion and agreement ...... 23 5.2.2 Principle level scores...... 23 5.2.3 Summary of conditions ...... 23 5.2.4 Recommendations ...... 23 6. Evaluation Results ...... 24 6.1 Eligibility date ...... 24 6.2 Traceability within the fishery ...... 24 6.3 Eligibility to enter further chains of custody ...... 25 6.4 Eligibility of Inseparable or Practicably Inseparable (IPI) stock(s) to Enter Further Chains of Custody ...... 26 7 References ...... 27 8 Scoring ...... 32 8.1 Summary of Performance Indicator level scores ...... 32 8.2 Principle 1 ...... 34 8.2.1.1 Life history information – Manila clam (Ruditapes philippinarum) ...... 34 8.2.1.2 Status of stocks ...... 36 8.2.1.3 Seasonal Operation of the Fishery ...... 36 8.2.1.4 Catch profiles ...... 37 8.2.1.5 Total Allowable Catch (TAC) and catch data ...... 38 8.3 Principle 1 Performance Indicator scores and rationales ...... 40 PI 1.1.1 – Stock Status ...... 40 PI 1.1.2 – Stock rebuilding ...... 44 PI 1.1.3 – Genetics outcome ...... 45 PI 1.2.1 – Harvest strategy ...... 49 PI 1.2.2 – Harvest control rules and tools ...... 53 PI 1.2.3 – Information and monitoring ...... 56 PI 1.2.4 – Assessment of stock status ...... 59 PI 1.2.5 – Genetics management ...... 61

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PI 1.2.6 – Genetics information ...... 64 8.4 Principle 2 ...... 67 8.4.1 Principle 2 background ...... 67 8.4.1.1 Overview: Putian element ...... 67 8.4.1.2 Overview: Donggang element ...... 69 8.4.1.3 Primary, Secondary and ETP Species ...... 70 8.4.1.4 Habitats ...... 73 8.4.1.5 Ecosystem Impacts ...... 74 8.4.1.6 Translocation ...... 75 8.5 Principle 2 Performance Indicator scores and rationales ...... 76 PI 2.1.1 – Primary species outcome ...... 76 PI 2.1.2 – Primary species management strategy ...... 78 PI 2.1.3 – Primary species information ...... 80 PI 2.2.1 – Secondary species outcome...... 82 PI 2.2.2 – Secondary species management strategy ...... 84 PI 2.2.3 – Secondary species information ...... 87 PI 2.3.1 – ETP species outcome ...... 89 PI 2.3.2 – ETP species management strategy ...... 91 PI 2.3.3 – ETP species information ...... 94 PI 2.4.1 – Habitats outcome ...... 96 PI 2.4.2 – Habitats management strategy ...... 98 PI 2.4.3 – Habitats information ...... 101 PI 2.5.1 – Ecosystem outcome ...... 103 PI 2.5.2 – Ecosystem management strategy ...... 105 PI 2.5.3 – Ecosystem information ...... 108 PI 2.6.1 – Translocation outcome ...... 111 PI 2.6.2 – Translocation management ...... 113 PI 2.6.3 – Translocation information ...... 115 8.6 Principle 3 ...... 116 8.6.1 Principle 3 background ...... 116 8.6.1.1 National Level Management ...... 116 8.6.1.2 Fishery-Specific Management ...... 118 8.6.1.3 Area of Operation and Relevant Jurisdictions ...... 123 8.6.1.4 Recognized Interest Groups ...... 124 8.6.1.5 Arrangements for On-going Consultations ...... 126 8.7 Principle 3 Performance Indicator scores and rationales ...... 127 PI 3.1.1 – Legal and/or customary framework ...... 127 PI 3.1.2 – Consultation, roles and responsibilities ...... 130 PI 3.1.3 – Long term objectives ...... 133 PI 3.2.1 – Fishery-specific objectives ...... 135 PI 3.2.2 – Decision-making processes ...... 137 PI 3.2.3 – Compliance and enforcement ...... 141

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PI 3.2.4 – Monitoring and management performance evaluation ...... 144 9 Appendices ...... 146 9.1 Assessment information ...... 146 9.1.1 Previous assessments ...... 146 9.1.2 Small-scale fisheries ...... 146 9.2 Evaluation processes and techniques ...... 147 9.2.1 Stakeholder Participation ...... 147 9.2.2 Evaluation techniques ...... 148 9.2.2.1 Documentation and Information Gathering ...... 148 9.2.2.2 Scoring and Report Development Process ...... 148 9.2.2.3 Scoring Methodology ...... 148 9.2.3 Modified assessment tree ...... 149 9.3 Peer Review reports ...... 151 9.4 Stakeholder input ...... 152 9.5 Conditions ...... 153 9.6 Client Action Plan ...... 154 9.7 Surveillance ...... 155 9.8 Risk-Based Framework outputs ...... 155 9.8.1 Consequence Analysis (CA) ...... 155 9.8.2 Productivity Susceptibility Analysis (PSA) ...... 155 9.8.3 Consequence Spatial Analysis (CSA) ...... 155 9.8.4 Scale Intensity Consequence Analysis (SICA) ...... 155 9.9 Harmonised fishery assessments ...... 156 9.10 Objection Procedure ...... 157

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Table of Tables

Table 1. Unit of Assessment and Unit of Certification ...... 8 Table 2. Fisheries program documents versions ...... 12 Table 3. Unit of Assessment (UoA) ...... 18 Table 4. Consideration of the scope criteria for eligible enhanced fisheries (FCP 7.4.6) ...... 19 Table 5. Principle level scores ...... 23 Table 6. Summary of conditions...... 23 Table 7. Traceability within the fishery ...... 24 Table 8. Summary of PI scores and associated weights used to calculate Principle scores...... 32 Table 9. Final Principle scores ...... Error! Bookmark not defined. Table 10. Total Allowable Catch (TAC) and catch data ...... 39 Table 11. Bycatch species as recorded in logbooks for the Donggang fishery ...... 70 Table 14. ETP species recognised by the Law of the People's Republic of China on the Protection of Wildlife, and their potentiall to interact with the fishery (analysis by Cappell 2019). 71 Table 16. Small-scale fisheries ...... 146 Table 17. Audit plan: key meetings and locations (to be completed)...... 147 Table 18. Decision Rule for calculating Performance Indicator scores based on Scoring Issues, and for calculating Performance Indicator scores in cases of multiple scoring elements. (Adapted from MSC FCPV2.1 Table 4) ...... 149 Table 19. Condition XX ...... 153 Table 20. Fishery surveillance audit ...... 155 Table 21. Timing of surveillance audit ...... 155 Table 22. Surveillance level rationale ...... 155 Table 23. CA scoring template ...... 155 Table 24. PSA productivity attributes and scores ...... 155 Table 25. Species grouped by similar taxonomies (if FCP v2.1 Annex PF4.1.5 is used) ...... 155 Table 26. CSA rationale table for PI 2.4.1 Habitats ...... 155 Table 27. SICA scoring template for PI 2.5.1 Ecosystem ...... 155

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Table of Figures

Figure 1. Production process for Manila clam seed in Fujian Province (from Cappell 2019)...... 13 Figure 2. Vessels and hand net used in the Yalu Estuary Manila Clam fishery, Putian...... 15 Figure 3. Vessels and propeller dredges used in the Yalu Estuary Manila Clam fishery, Donggang...... 17 Figure 4. Manila clam monthly landings (t) in Donggang between 2015 and 2019 (2019 not complete) ...... 38 Figure 5. Annual manila clam landings (t) in Donggang...... 38 Figure 2. Map of the seed production area, Fujian Region ...... 67 Figure 7. Schematic of the assessment area off the Yalu Estuary, China...... 69 Figure 6. Yalu River Estuary Wetland Reserve Functional Zoning (adjusted in 2013). Figure from WWF and Panasonic...... 120 Figure 7. Map of the seed production area (Putian Element). From the FIP Action Plan by Cappell (2018)...... 124 Figure 8. The clam production area (Donggang Element)...... 124

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1 Glossary ACDR Announcement Comment Draft Report CAB Conformity Assessment Body CAG Catch and Grow (enhanced fishery) CAP Client Acton Plan CITES Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora CPRDR Client and Peer Review Draft Report EEZ Exclusive Economic Zone ETP Endangered, Threatened or Protected species FAO Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations FCM Fisheries Certification Methodology HAC Hatch and Catch (enhanced fishery) IFQ Individual Fishing Quota ITQ Individual Transferable Quota IUCN International Unión for the Conservation of Nature Kg Kilogram Lb. Pound, equivalent to approximately 2.2 kg LOA Length Over-All M Million MSC Marine Stewardship Council MSE Management Strategy Evaluation nm nautical mile OFL Over-Fishing Level PCDR Publich Comment Draft Report PI Performance Indicator PSA Productivity-Susceptibility Analysis RBF Risk-Based Framework SCS SCS Global Services SG Scoring Guidepost SI Scoring Issue SSB Spawning Stock Biomass t and mt metric ton TAC Total Allowable Catch UoA Unit of Assessment UoC Unit of Certification WWF World Wildlife Fund

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3 Executive Summary This assessment of the Yalu Estuary Manila Clam (Ruditapes philippinarum) Fishery was conducted by SCS Global Services (SCS), an MSC-accredited, independent, third-party conformity assessment body (CAB), in accordance with the MSC Principles and Criteria for sustainable fishing. This assessment has been conducted against the MSC Fisheries Standard and Guidance v.2.01, published 31st August 2018 (MSC 2018a), and complies with MSC process requirements as detailed in the MSC Fisheries Certification Process v.2.1, published 31st August 2018 (MSC 2018b).

This report is the Announcement Comment Draft Report (ACDR) version of the assessment report for the fishery. This version has been prepared with information provided by the client, but has not been reviewed by stakeholders and does not benefit from discussion and any additional information that may be presented at a site visit. Later versions of the report will be subject to peer review and stakeholder comment, and will be informed by an Assessment Team site visit to Putian, in Fujian Province, eastern China.

The Yalu Estuary Manila Clam Fishery is made up of a single Unit of Assessment (UoA) that comprises two distinct parts (Table 1). The first part comprises a system where broodstock are obtained mainly from the wild in shallow subtidal areas adjacent to Putian City, in Fujian Province of eastern China, with seed clams produced in local ponds before being on-grown to juvenile size (up to approximately 10 mm shell length) in adjacent intertidal mud flats. For the second part, these juveniles are then transported to Donggang City in the Liaoning Province, before being released into sublittoral culture areas adjacent to the Yalu estuary for on-growing to market size (>30 mm), and subsequent harvest.

Table 1. Unit of Assessment and Unit of Certification

Stock/Species Method of Capture Fishing fleet (FCP V2.1 7.5.2.a) (FCP V2.1 7.5.2.b) (FCP V2.1 7.5.2.c)

Putian element: Individuals and vessels Manila clam (Ruditapes philippinarum) Propeller and water engaged in broodstock collection, from the stock in Putian, relaid and jet dredge, with ponds used for sand seed production, harvested for market in Donggang, eastern secondary harvest of and individuals and vessels used for China. broodstock and juvenile collection. The UoA only includes Manila clam juvenile clams by Donggang element: Vessels and areas spawned from broodstock in Putian that is towed net and/or leased by fishers who sell product to sourced mainly from the wild stock** hand working the client group.

** Note that defining the UoA on the basis of including only Manila clam spawned from broodstock in Putian that is mainly sourced from wild stock is a precautionary approach intended to account for MSC guidance on enhanced fisheries, as presented in GSB2.1.3 (MSC 2018a), and for MSC scope criterion for enhanced fisheries number Aiii.

Within the assessment, the two parts of the fishery are considered to be two elements. The first element is referred to as the Putian element, and the second element is referred to as the Donggang element. Both elements employ propeller/water jet dredge fishing gear to catch large clams (i.e., broodstock in Putian, and market-sized clams for harvest in Donggang, but the seed/juveniles in Putian are collected by hand raking and towed nets. In Putian, beam trawls are used to prepare the ground prior to sowing sand seed. This preparation removes old shell and some potential clam predators (e.g.,

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SCS Global Services Report octopus and starfish). These different gears and components are considered within the MSC assessment process.

We note that the client does not operate any fishing vessels, but is a buyer and processor of Manila clams. As such, the intent is to assess the Yalu Estuary Manila Clam fishery as a whole, but if successful it would be only those Manila clams that are sourced from Putian and then grown to market size in leased beds in Donggang and then harvested and bought by the client (and any other members of the client group, subject to a certificate sharing arrangement) that would be eligible to carry the MSC logo.

The fishery was assessed with the additional Principle 1 Performance Indicators (PIs) 1.1.3, 1.2.5 and 1.2.6, as detailed in the ‘Hatch and Catch’ part of the enhanced bivalve assessment tree, and with the additional Principle 2 PIs 2.6.1, 2.6.2 and 2.6.3, as detailed in the ‘Catch and grow’ part of the enhanced bivalve assessment tree (Annex PB, MSC 2018a). These additional Principle 1 PIs together consider potential genetic impacts resulting from the enhancement processes, as well as management and information associated with those potential genetic impacts, while the additional Principle 2 PIs consider potential impacts to the surrounding ecosystem caused by translocation of the juveniles, and any management and information associated with those potential impacts. This approach was confirmed with the MSC following the submission and acceptance of a variation request (VR) (to be published on the MSC website at ACDR publication).

Principle 1 was not scored for the Donggang element, because the translocated stock occurs sublittorally, and spawns at a different time to the local, intertidal stock, such that there is no interaction with the local stock. Also, the intent for the Donggang element of the fishery is to harvest all the translocated clams, rather than to manage the translocated stock for long-term sustainability. Conversely, the translocation PIs were not scored for the Putian element, because there is no translocation in this part of the fishery.

Assessment Process The Assessment Team selected to undertake the assessment comprises three members who collectively meet the MSC requirements for full assessment teams (FCP 7.6, MSC 2018b). These are Dr. Rob Blyth-Skyrme (Team Leader and Principle 2 expert), Dr. Mikio Moriyasu (Principle 1 Expert) and Dr. Jocelyn Drugan (Principle 3 Expert).

In order to complete this ACDR, information on the Yalu Estuary Manila Clam Fishery was presented to the Assessment Team by the client, supplemented by information from fisheries scientists. The Assessment Team was also provided with a preassessment report for the fishery (Cappell 2019). Further information is available on the Fishery Progress website, detailing the work undertaken through the fishery improvement project on the fishery (see www.fisheryprogress.org, and reporting for the ‘China manila clam – dredge’ project).

At this stage of the assessment process (i.e, the Announcement Comment Draft Report - ACDR), the Assessment Team has yet to undertake a site visit to observe the fishery or meet and discuss the fishery with the client, scientists, managers or other stakeholders. However, if the fishery proceeds to the next stage of the assessment process (i.e., preparation of the Client and Peer Review Draft Report), the Assessment Team will undertake a site visit to Fujian Province. The site visit would take place no earlier than 60 days after the publication of the ACDR for stakeholder input (FCP 7.15, MSC 2018b).

Summary of Findings At the ACDR stage, we provide initial rationales and presumed scores for each of the Performance Indicators (PIs) under Principle 1 (Stock status and Harvest strategy), Principle 2 (Ecosystem Impact)

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SCS Global Services Report and Principle 3 (Governance, Policy and Management system) of the MSC Standard. We highlight that these scores may change following consideration of additional information made available as a result of the ACDR consultation, and at the subsequent site visit. The full scoring table is provided in Section 8.1.

In Principle 1, two of the eight PIs were scored at 80 or above (PI 1.1.1 and PI 1.2.4), and six were scored at 60-75 (PI 1.1.3, PI 1.2.1, PI 1.2.2, PI 1.2.3, PI 1.2.5 and PI 1.2.6). A key strength of the fishery is that it is focused on a highly productive species. The deficiencies were then mainly related to the limited information available on the wild fishery for large clams in Putian from which the broodstock are gathered, and the limited information on the need or otherwise of a genetics strategy for managing the potential impact of the cultivation system on the wild population of Manila clam in Putian.

In Principle 2, 11 of the 18 PIs were scored at 80 or above, and seven PIs were scored at 60-75 (PI 2.1.3, PI 2.2.3, PI 2.3.2, PI 2.3.3 PI 2.6.1, PI 2.6.2 and PI 2.6.3). The strengths of the fishery include that it is licensed and carefully zoned, with a high likelihood of low bycatch levels, and limited impacts on habitats and the key ecosystem elements. However, information is somewhat limited on catches taken in both parts of the fishery, including in the hand worked component. Also, the Assessment Team will need more information on the approach taken to managing the risk posed by non-native species and disease pathogens through translocation in order to meet the SG80 requirements for PIs 2.6.1 – 2.6.3.

In Principle 3, three of the seven PIs were scored at 80 or above (PI 3.1.1, PI 3.1.3 and PI 3.2.4), and four were scored at 60-75 (PI 3.1.2, PI 3.2.1, PI 3.2.2 and PI 3.2.3). The strengths of the fishery include that the legal and customary framework is very strong, with good long-term objectives and a monitoring and management performance evaluation. A lack of information on the fishery for large clams in Putian from which the broodstock are gathered was again identified as limitation with respect to fishery-specific objectives, however.

Currently, the Assessment Team was not able to determine that the fishery would meet the MSC Standard and could be certified unconditionally, noting that as well as there being no Performance Indicator scored at <60, there is also a requirement for each Principle to score an aggregate of at ≥80 (Background to Annex GSA Guidance, MSC 2018a). However, this report may now be used by the client to help gather more information, and if the fishery proceeds to announcement then it is hoped that stakeholders will also be able to provide more information to help fill in gaps in understanding.

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4 Report Details

4.1 Authorship and peer review details

Assessment Team Together, the Assessment Team meets the qualifications and competency requirements as specified in Table PC1 (for Team Leaders), Table PC2 (for Team Members) and Table PC3 (for teams overall) of Process v2.1 (MSC 2018b), and in line with the requirements as specified in the General Certification Requirements (GCR), including on competence, training, impartiality and confidentiality (MSC 2019).

Dr. Rob Blyth-Skyrme – Team Leader and Principle 2 Expert

Rob started his career in commercial aquaculture, but shifted focus to the sustainable management of wild fisheries, completing his PhD on co-management in the Inshore Potting Agreement off south Devon, UK, in 2004. He then worked at the Eastern Sea Fisheries Joint Committee, one of the bodies managing inshore fisheries around the English coast, where he became the Deputy Chief Fishery Officer, focusing on fisheries management and enforcement. He subsequently moved to Natural England, acting as the organisation’s senior advisor to UK Government on fisheries and environmental issues, leading a team dealing with fisheries policy, science and nationally significant fisheries casework. Rob now runs Ichthys Marine Ecological Consulting Ltd. As well as providing general fisheries and environmental consultancy, he has worked as a Lead Assessor, Principle 2 and Principle 3 expert team member, and peer reviewer across a wide range of MSC fisheries. Rob has also presented at various MSC workshops, including those on Principle 2 in the Certification Requirements (CR) version (v.) 2.0, changes in species and habitat requirements between CR v.1.3 and v.2.0, and the interactions between the MSC Standard and the EU Landing Obligation. He is a trainer for the MSC’s Capacity Building programme, a member of the Peer Review College, and has completed ISO 9001/19011 training and the MSC’s Lead Auditor training in the CR v.1.3, CR v.2.0 and Process v.2.1, including on the risk-based framework (RBF).

Dr. Mikio Moriyasu – Principle 1 Expert

Mikio Moriyasu holds a MSc on fishery biology from the Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology, Japan, and a Doctor’s degree on aquatic ecology Université des Sceinces et Technique du Languedoc, France on a French Goverment scholarship. He has 34 years of research experience with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans on various marine crustaceans namely snow crab and assumed the head of the snow crab section. His research domain encompasses the entire range of the snow crab's life cycle, annual snow crab stock assessments, and studies related to environmental changes and anthropogenic activities and their effects on snow crab populations. He held adjunct faculty positions at University of New Brunswick, University of Prince Edward Island, Université de Moncton, and associate research scientist at provincial government of Fukui, Japan. He has a broad international experience for biology and fisheries science on various marine invertebrate species. He has served on SCS fishery assessment team on pre-assessment of multi-species fisheries in Fukushima as well as Pacific cupped oyster in Hiroshima, Japan as a lead auditor on Principle 1 and 2.

Dr. Jocelyn Drugan – Principle 3 Expert

Jocelyn is a fisheries scientist with Ocean Outcomes, a global fishery improvement organization that provides technical support to fisheries aiming to improve their sustainability. She has a B.S. in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology from Yale University and a M.S. and Ph.D. in Fisheries Science from the

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University of Washington. She was also a postdoctoral research associate at the NOAA Alaska Fisheries Science Center in Seattle. Jocelyn has co-authored one MSC assessment and multiple MSC pre- assessments, primarily focusing on species in Japan and China. She has completed MSC’s Lead Auditor training including units for the RBF, enhanced bivalve fisheries, and salmon fisheries. In addition to native proficiency in English, Jocelyn has language skills in Japanese and Mandarin Chinese.

Peer Reviewers This version of the report is the ACDR, which has not been subject to peer review. However, peer review will take place after the site visit, when the Client and Peer Review Draft Report (CPRDR) is produced. To facilitate a full and effective peer review process, the CPRDR will incorporate scores, weightings, and a draft determination, together with any conditions set (and associated Client Action Plan [CAP]) where scores of <80 were awarded for PIs.

At the point at which the peer reviews are undertaken, several peer reviewers will be proposed by the MSC’s Peer Review College. Information on the peer reviewers will be posted on the MSC’s web page for the Yalu Estuary Manila Clam Fishery, together with the peer review comments and responses from the Assessment Team.

4.2 Version details The following versions of the MSC fisheries programme documents were used for this assessment (Table 2).

Table 2. Fisheries program documents versions

Document Version number

MSC Fisheries Certification Process Version 2.1

MSC Fisheries Standard Version 2.01

MSC General Certification Requirements Version 2.3

MSC Reporting Template Version 1.1

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5 Units of Assessment and Certification, and results overview

5.1 Unit of Assessment (UoA) and Unit of Certification (UoC)

5.1.1 Fishery Operations Overview The Yalu Estuary Manila Clam Fishery is a commercial fishing operation made up of two parts; the broodstock collection and seed production system occurs with local stock in Putian, before translocation of the stock for on-growing to market size and harvest in Donggang.

Putian Element

There was initially somewhat conflicting information available to the Assessment Team on the source of the broodstock used in Putian, based on information presented in the Preassessment Report (Cappell 2019), which stated “The source stock are wild Manila clams from Putian in Fujian Province in the East China Sea, which are then translocated for grow out in the assessment area located in Dandong”, but the schematic of the process provided in the Preasessment Report (Figure 3 in Cappell 2019), reproduced below as Figure 1) shows a loop from A) the Nursery Area with broodstock to B) the Muds Flats with sand seed to C) the Shallow Sea Area with white seed and D) back to the Nursery Area with broodstock, with the note that “Selected clams relaid as broodstock Aug-Sept” (i.e., indicating that the broodstock are sourced from the cultivated stock).

Seawater Pond (pond) Gulf (Mudflat) Shallow sea areas

white seed

Nursery Export of area Sand ‘white seed' to Mud flats Shallow Sea Area Seed Liaoning Broodstock: Transferred 1-3 times to Manage water ‘Sand seed’ different seawater area Province, level to 1-4mm re-laid according to seawater area including promote conditions for broodstock Donggang. spawning in & grows to maturity September ‘white seed’ white 25mm, May-August. 5-8mm seed On-growing for 2 Produces ‘sand Remaining clams relaid for years to >30mm seed’ 1-4mm: December to on-growing and adult September- May harvest next year December

Selected clams relaid as broodstock Aug-Sept

Figure 1. Production process for Manila clam seed in Fujian Province (from Cappell 2019).

Having questioned the client extensively, the Assessment Team now understands that about 4,000 t of potential broodstock are selected from the subtidal fishery (which is understood to be based on a wild, not enhanced stock), although an additional 40 t (approximately) of broodstock may also be selected from the enhanced fishery to supplement the broodstock. Only approximately 2,500 t of these clams may in fact finally be used as broodstock, with the rest being sold on as commercial clams (

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2019). A map of the region is presented as Figure 2, while culture pond, intertidal ongrowing and subtidal fishery areas are shown in Figure 3.

Figure 2. Map of the Putian region (Source: www.google.com/maps).

Figure 3. Map of Putian neritic seawater showing the utilization of different tidal areas for clam industry. : cofferdam ponds; : subtidal are for wild clam; : intertidal area for

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white seed production mainly and some white seeds were left for the purpose of stock enhancement. Source: Putian OFB

The culture ponds in Putian comprise a total of approximately 52,500 mu / 3,500 ha (Taihong 2019a), which with 2,500 t of broodstock used results in a mean broodstock density in the ponds of approximately 715 kg per ha; this is a little higher than the figure of 300-600 kg per ha quoted by Mao et al. 2019.

The gear type used to collect the larger Manila clam is mainly a propeller / water jet dredge, but there is also some hand collection. There are 2,271 fishing vessels in Putian as recorded by the Putian Stasitical Bureau, but it is not clear if all of these vessels are engaged in the subtidal clam fishery. It is understood that the proportion of broodstock clams that may be collected by hand is small in comparison to those collected by dredge (Figure 4).

Figure 4. Vessels and hand net used in the Yalu Estuary Manila Clam fishery, Putian.

With respect to the MSC scope criterion Aiii for enhanced fisheries (Table 1, MSC 2018b) it is important that there is limited information available to the Assessment Team on what proportion of the broodstock is derived from a truly wild (i.e., non-cultivated) population, and therefore whether the broodstock are in fact of wild or cultivated origin (see Table 4, below), and discussed further in the introduction and scoring of Principle 1). Bycatch information is also relatively limited (which is discussed further in the introduction and scoring of Principle 2). As such, there are gaps in the Assessment Team’s understanding of the fishery that will need to be addressed at site visit.

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Once the broodstock are collected, the process undertaken by the fishery is more clear. It is understood that culture ponds are located around the periphery of Meizhou Bay, Pinghai Bay and Xinghau Bay, near to Putian. Of the approximately 52,500 mu (3,500 ha) of ponds used for cultivation, it is understood that approximately 15,000 mu (1,000 ha) are used to produce clams which are subsequently supplied to Donggang (Taihong 2019a). The ponds are prepared by drying out and then cleaning, including with the use of tea seed (a natural poison that is used to eliminate potential competitors and predators of the clam larvae). Following refilling and treating with fertilizer to promote phytoplankton growth, spawning is stimulated soon after the broodstock are laid in the ponds in August, by draining and then refilling the ponds. The larvae are then allowed to settle, and the first settled juveniles of 1-4 mm in length, called ‘sand seed’ are produced from September to December in the same year (Cappell 2019).

The sand seed are subsequently collected by hand using bamboo dustpans and wood scrapers, and laid out in intertidal plots in the same three bays in the Putian province (Cappell 2019). From this point forward in the production system, there is no further feed supplementation for the juvenile clams. The total area of the intertidal plots used for ongrowing the sand seed is approximately 50,000 mu (3,332 ha), with a total annual production of white seed of approximately 100,000 t (Taihong, pers. comm, December 2019).

In the early part of the following year (i.e., after the juvenile clams have grown to around 8-10 mm, at which time they are known as ‘white seed’), some are collected from the intertidal plots using both manual harvesting or by boats using fine-meshed nets (Figure 4). The harvested white seed are then placed into 30 kg bags with coarse sand, and made ready for transport to Donggang via refrigerated (ice) truck. Approximately 40,000 – 50,000 t of the white seed is transported to Donggang, annually (Taihong, pers. comm., December 2019). Cappell (2019) noted that the remaining clams are relaid for grow-out in the shallow sea areas and harvested as adult clams next year, with the best identified as the following year’s broodstock – it is now understood that very small quantities of these hatchery- reared clams are used for broodstock. It is noted that white seed left in Putian to grow on to market size or transported to other locations (i.e, those that are not transported to Donggang) are not considered part of the UoA, are not assessed in this report, and would not therefore be eligible to carry the MSC logo on the basis of this assessment; however, the Assessment team is not clear on where these clams are ongrown either locally or in other regions.

Donggang Element

In Donggang, the bagged white seed are sown on to leased, subtidal plots, which together cover an area of 600,000 mu; the leased areas comprise approximately 57% of the 1,060,000 mu area locally that occurs within the 0 – 10 m depth contours. To date, the production areas approved by the government are all within the 0-10 m zone, and there are more than 50 households and enterprises with licences.

Before sowing the white seed, the leased areas are first prepared with a simple beam trawl to clear away broken and dead shell, as well as to clear starfish, predatory gastropod snails, and the moon shell (Natica spp). White seed are then seeded onto the ground, using around two thousand (2,000) individuals per square metre (m²), with a GPS plotter to ensure an even and consistent stocking density across the plot. The clams are seeded from April to June, and are then left for around two years before they are harvested with a clam dredge. During this time no further husbandry, either in the form of predator control nor feeding, is undertaken (Cappell 2019). It was noted that suppliers considered the survival rate to be around 30-40%, but Cappell (2019) compared harvest volumes to seed input and reported growth rates and calculated that survival is somewhat lower than this.

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The vessels harvest the clams using propeller / water jet dredges (4 per boat). The propellers or water jets disturb the seabed, flushing the clams and sediment into the net at the rear. The propeller is favoured over the water jet gear as it has been found the water jet caused too much damage to the shells (Figure 5). A new pump has been identified with which the pressure can be adjusted and this is being used by some vessels.

The cod end of the net has a 3cm mesh. The vessels do short tows of 30 minutes at 1 knot, followed by 5 minutes of washing the catch by repeatedly dipping the nets in the water before hauling aboard. The catch is then bagged into 30kg bags. A small amount of sorting is carried out to remove bycatch snails and octopus along with any obvious debris (rocks, litter, etc.). This process is repeated until the planned harvest weight is achieved. The vessels generally collect 50 t per trip, with a maximum of 60 t possible.

Figure 5. Vessels and propeller dredges used in the Yalu Estuary Manila Clam fishery, Donggang.

5.1.2 Unit of Assessment The Yalu Estuary Manila Clam Fishery is made up of a single Unit of Assessment (UoA) that comprises two distinct parts, scored as elements. The first part comprises a system where Manila clam (Ruditapes philippinarum) broodstock are obtained from the stock in Bays adjacent to Putian, in the Fujian region

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SCS Global Services Report of eastern China, placed in local ponds and then spawned to produce seed clams (≈2 mm shell length). These seed clams are then collected and on-grown to juvenile size (≤10 mm shell length) in adjacent intertidal mud flats. For the second part, these juveniles are then transported to the Donggang region before being released into sublittoral culture areas for on-growning to market size, and subsequent harvest.

Within the assessment, these two parts of the fishery are considered to be two elements. The first element is referred to as the Putian element, and the second element is referred to as the Donggang element. Both elements employ propeller/water jet dredge fishing gear to catch large clams (i.e., broodstock in Fujian, and market-sized clams for harvest in Donggang, but the seed/juveniles in Fujian are collected by hand raking and towed nets. In Fujian, standard beam trawls are used to prepare the ground prior to sowing sand seed. This preparation removes old shell and some potential clam predators (e.g., octopus and starfish). These different gears and components are considered within the MSC assessment process.

Table 3. Unit of Assessment (UoA)

Stock/Species Method of Capture Fishing fleet (FCP V2.1 7.5.2.a) (FCP V2.1 7.5.2.b) (FCP V2.1 7.5.2.c)

** Note that defining the UoA on the basis of including only Manila clam spawned from broodstock in Putian that is mainly sourced from wild stock is a precautionary approach intended to account for MSC guidance on enhanced fisheries as presented in GSB2.1.3 (MSC 2018a), and for MSC scope criterion for enhanced fisheries number Aiii.

The fishery has been found to meet the following scope requirements (FCP v2.1 7.4) for MSC fishery assessments as it: ▪ Does not operate under a controversial unilateral exemption to an international agreement, use destructive fishing practices, does not target amphibians, birds, reptiles or mammals and is not overwhelmed by the dispute. (FCP 7.4.2.1, 7.4.2.2, 7.4.3, 7.4.5) ▪ The fishery does not engage in shark finning, has mechanisms for resolving disputes (FCP 7.4.5.1), and has not previously failed assessment or had a certificate withdrawn. ▪ Is not based on an introduced species and does not represent an inseparable or practically inseparable species (FCP 7.5.1, 7.5.2, 7.5.8-13) ▪ Does not overlap with another MSC certified or applicant fishery (7.5.14), ▪ And does not include an entity successfully prosecuted for violating forced labor laws (7.4.4) ▪ The Unit of Assessment, the Unit of Certification, and eligible fishers have been clearly defined, traceability risks characterized, and the client has provided a clear indication of their position relative to certificate sharing (7.5.1-7.7.7).

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The scope criteria for enhanced fisheries, as detailed in Table 4, below (from FCP 7.4.6), have been reviewed by the Assessment Team. It is not clear that all criteria are met unequivocally, with specific reference to Aiii; this has been checked through a query to the MSC, but the answers were ambiguous. Therefore, the scope criteria will need to be reviewed at site visit.

Table 4. Consideration of the scope criteria for eligible enhanced fisheries (FCP 7.4.6)

A Linkages to and maintenance of a wild stock i At some point in the production process, the The juvenile Manila clams that are stocked in to the on- system relies upon the capture of fish from growing production areas in the Yalu Estuary, the wild environment. Such fish may be Donggang are spawned from broodstock that are taken at any stage of the life cycle including collected from a natural sea area in Fujian Province, in eggs, larvae, juveniles or adults. The ‘wild three bays adjacent to Putian. The broodstock are environment’ in this context includes induced to spawn and their progeny reared to a size marine, freshwater and any other aquatic suitable for stocking (1 -4 mm). These clams are then ecosystems. placed out on to intertidal beds for growing to ‘white seed’ size of approximately 8-10 mm. These are then collected and laid out in subtidal beds off Donggang. Within the whole life cycle of the clam (more than 2 years), the clams are only in the culture pond for 4 months and stay in ‘the wild environment’ for the rest of time. ii The species are native to the geographic The Manila clam is native to all of eastern China, both region of the fishery and the natural in the Yellow Sea and the East China Sea. production areas from which the fishery’s catch originates.

iii There are natural reproductive components The Assessment Team considers the broodstock to of the stock from which the fishery’s catch form the essential link to the natural reproductive originates that maintain themselves without component of the stock (i.e., the wild stock outside of having to be restocked every year. the aquaculture system) from which the fishery’s catch originates. However: 1) We understand that there is a natural reproductive component of the stock in Putian (i.e., the wild stock outside of the aquaculture system) that maintain themselves without having to be restocked every year. The subtidal population has been estimated at 33,000 t (Taihong, pers. comm. December 2019), but it is noted that WWF (2018b) stated that the total population (all sizes) of Manila clam in non- aquaculture areas of Meizhou Bay was 42 t, and in Pinghai Bay was 54 t; this inconsistency remains unexplained, so it is not clear if there is a natural reproductive component that maintains itself. 2) With respect to the fishery’s catch originating from a natural reproductive component of the stock, it is currently understood that approximately 98% of the broodstock are derived from the subtidal fishery. While it is inherent that all broodstock must have ‘originated’ from a natural stock at some point in time (i.e., either in their own generation or from one or

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more generations previously), it is not clear if the MSC intends ‘originated’ to mean that there is a direct, one generation link to the natural population (i.e., the broodstock are obtained directly from a wild population) or whether it is acceptable for there to be one or more cultivated generations between the broodstock and the wild population, and it is not clear currently if the subtidal fishery is in any way enhanced. At the present time these uncertainties cannot be answered definitively, and would need to be considered further at site visit.

iv Where fish stocking is used in hatch-and- Juvenile production in the Putian region is essentially a catch (HAC) systems, such stocking does not HAC system, with the broodstock coming from local form a major part of a current rebuilding populations and the sand seed (≈1-4 mm shell length) plan for depleted stocks. being laid in to the intertidal for on-growing to juvenile Note: size (8-10 mm shell length). These juveniles are then collected and translocated to the Donggang region for This requirement shall apply to the current on-growing to harvest. It is understood that this status of the fishery. Wild stocks shall be system is not part of a rebuilding plan for a depleted managed by other conventional means. If stock. rebuilding has been done by stocking in the past, it shall not result in an out-of-scope determination as long as other measures are now in place. B Feeding and husbandry i The production system operates without There is very limited initial fertilisation of the culture substantial augmentation of food supply. In ponds to promote algal growth for the broodstock HAC systems, any feeding is used only to clams and cultured larvae, but no other augmentation grow the animals to a small size prior to of food supply. release (not more than 10% of the average The main growth phase (10 mm at stocking to >30 mm adult maximum weight), such that most of at harvest) takes place in Donggang without any the total growth (not less than 90%) is supplementary feeding. achieved during the wild phase. In catch- and-grow (CAG) systems, feeding during the captive phase is only by natural means (e.g. filter feeding in mussels), or at a level and duration that provide only for the maintenance of condition (e.g. crustaceans in holding tanks) rather than to achieve growth. ii In CAG systems, production during the N/A not CAG. captive phase does not routinely require disease prevention involving chemicals or compounds with medicinal prophylactic properties. C Habitat and ecosystem impacts i Any modifications to the habitat of the stock There is habitat modification in the initial seed culture are reversible and do not cause serious or production system of Fujian Province as shallow ponds irreversible harm to the natural ecosystem’s with banks made from the local sediment are structure and function. constructed and cleared of debris. Both the inter-tidal and sub-tidal areas of Fujian and Donggang respectively are highly dynamic

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Note: environments, where habitat modification (e.g. Habitat modifications that are not reversible, embankments, predator control, etc.) are unlikely to are already in place and are not created cause serious or irreversible harm to the natural specifically for the fishery shall be in scope. ecosystem’s structure and function. If the ponds were This includes: not maintained and the sea was allowed to breach the walls, it is considered that the system would revert in • Large-scale artificial reefs. time to the natural condition. • Structures associated with enhancement activities that do not cause irreversible harm to the natural ecosystem inhabited by the stock, such as salmon fry farms next to river systems.

It is noted that there is guidance provided on the enhanced bivalve assessment tree; this states the following (GSB2.1.3, MSC 2018a):

“Efforts should be made to address genetic concerns specific to the species and the geographic region where the seed will be out-planted. Best practices for managing the genetic impacts of hatchery enhancement include: 1. Maintaining a large number of broodstock to ensure against inbreeding and random genetic changes; 2. Rotating broodstock within spawning seasons and between years; 3. Avoiding the return of hatchery-propagated stock to the hatchery and using it as broodstock; 4. Using local broodstock to limit the mixing of genetically divergent populations; 5. Maintaining the scale of hatchery enhancement and the reproductive potential of hatchery seed well below the size and reproductive potential of the wild population.”

In regard to each of these points, the Assessment Team’s current understanding of the situation in Putian with respect to the requirements is as follows (numbering follows that above):

1. Probably. As noted above, it is assumed that around 2,500 t of broodstock is used in ponds in the Putian area, approximately 98% of which is derived from the subtidal fishery. This should be adequate to ‘ensure against inbreeding and random genetic changes’, but the Assessment Team is not able to confirm that this is the case at the time of drafting the ACDR because it is not entirely clear that the subtidal fishery is based on a wild stock. 2. Probably. It is understood that broodstock are used only once in the culture ponds before being collected and sold, but the Assessment Team is not able to confirm that this is the case at the time of drafting the ACDR. 3. Possibly. It is understood that approximately 98% of the broodstock is obtained from the subtidal fishery but it is not clear how much of this is derived from an enhanced stock. The remaining 2% is reportedly derived from ongrown hatchery stock. As such, it is possible that some hatchery- propagated stock is returned to the hatchery and used as broodstock. 4. Yes. Local broodstock are used in the ponds. 5. Possibly. The size of the local wild (i.e., not cultivated) population in the Putian area is uncertain, in that there is an estimate of stock size (33,000 t – Taihong, pers. comm. December 2019), but the habitat and stock survey covering Meizhou Bay and Pinghai Bay estimated that biomass (all sizes of animals) in the wild populations in those areas was 42 t and 54 t, respectively (WWF 2018b). In this case, it is apparent that the wild population is dwarfed by the scale of hatchery enhancement in the region (noting that Cappell 2019 stated (Section 2.2.3) that “… overall adult clam production in Putian of more than 200,000t, accounting for the majority of the 380,000t of clam produced in Fujian Province in 2017“, while also stating (Section 2.3.3) that “The annual output of “white seeds” is more

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than 20 thousand tons, accounting for more than 70% of the total output. In 2016, total clam production in Putian was 42,448 tons”).

Overall, then, it is not clear that the broodstock and genetic concerns are being addressed in a manner that is consistent with the scope criteria and the MSC Standard. More information is provided in the introduction and scoring of Principle 1.

5.1.3 Unit of Certification It is anticipated that the UoC will be the same as the UoA. However, this will be confirmed at the Public Certification Report stage.

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5.2 Assessment results overview

a. A formal statement as to the certification determination recommendation reached by the assessment team of whether the fishery should be certified. b. A formal statement as to the certification action taken by the CAB’s official decision-makers in response to the Determination recommendation.

5.2.4 Recommendations There are no recommendations at the ACDR stage.

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6. Evaluation Results

6.1 Eligibility date The eligibility date shall be any nominated date on or between the publication date of the first Public Comment Draft Report and the certification date (7.8.1, MSC 2018b); this shall be determined in due course.

6.2 Traceability within the fishery Description of Tracking, Tracing and Segregation Systems

The following traceability evaluation is for the UoC/UoA covering the use of mainly wild broodstock from the Putian province, and subsequent hatchery, and growout operations on the intertidal until the Manila clam reach the size of a ‘white seed’ upon which they are harvested using a towed net and/or by hand and then are transferred to Donggang. In Donggang, they are placed in subtidal leased plots until they reach a harvestable size.

There are several aspects of traceability important to this fishery. The main traceability risk relates to ensuring that the broodstock used in Putian in the hatchery conforms to the UoA requirements (i.e., as currently understood, mainly from the wild population and not hatchery-origin broodstock), then that the white seed stocked in the Donggang element of the fishery are derived from the Putian element of the fishery, and then that only the large clams from Donggang enter in to chains of custody as certified product. The risk areas/aspects to be confirmed throughout the stages of the fishery are:

1) Broodstock—ensuring that the broodstock used came mainly from the wild stock, as defined in the UoA table. 2) Hatchery—hatcheries only use the broodstock that are considered in scope (and do not use mainly hatchery-origin broodstock). At the time of the ACDR, the MSC has not provided guidance regarding acceptable levels of ‘mixing’ between wild/hatchery-origin broodstock; however, GSB 2.1.3 (MSC 2018a) specifies that the return of hatchery-propagated stock to the hatchery should be avoided. 3) Translocation of Manila Clams from Putian to Donggang—ensuring that the seed comes from intertidal areas that meet the UoA criteria (including from only the Putian Province). 4) Harvest—Ensuring there is no mixing at harvest of clams from grow-out areas in Donggang that did not source the Manila clams from Putian intertidal areas using broodstock covered in the UoA 5) Harvest—Only Manila clams purchased by Taihong directly from the Donggang grow-out areas are eligible to be sold as MSC.

Table 7. Traceability within the fishery

Factor Description

Will the fishery use gears that are not part of the Unit of Vessels are licensed within clear segments with Certification (UoC)? little opportunity to change to other gears without

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the knowledge (and encouragement) of the authorities.

Will vessels in the UoC also fish outside the UoC geographic The vessels are restricted to seeding and fishing area? areas to which they are licensed. There is no incentive to fish in unstocked areas outside of If Yes, please describe: these.

There is uncertainty regarding the operations of the wild broodstock fishery in Putian. The potential for vessels to fish outside of the UoC will be assessed at the onsite.

Do the fishery client members ever handle certified and non- There is a potential of substitution because of the certified products during any of the activities covered by the risk that seed from other areas from Putian may fishery certificate? This refers to both at-sea activities and on- be grown-out in Donggang. At the ACDR stage, it land activities. is understood that the majority of broodstock is sourced from the wild fishery, with only a minimal If Yes, please describe how any risks are mitigated. quantity of hatchery origin, and therefore, all Putian white seed from hatcheries is considered within scope. Only white seed produced from either broodstock from the wild population in Putian or (minimal) quantities of hatchery-origin individuals are part of the UoA. The sourcing of wild and hatchery-origin broodstock will be further investigated at the onsite, and any traceability risks will be identified. At the time of the ACDR, the documentation that tracks the product from the beginning stages in Putian (i.e. sourcing of broodstock) to the harvest in Donggang is unknown. Therefore, we cannot describe how the risks are mitigated

Does transshipment occur within the fishery? No transshipment occurs. The documentation that tracks the product from the beginning stages If Yes, please describe: in Putian (i.e. sourcing of broodstock) to the harvest in Donggang is unknown. Therefore, we cannot describe how the risks are mitigated.

Are there any other risks of mixing or substitution between At this stage, no additional substitution risks have certified and non-certified fish? been identified. If Yes, please describe how any risks are mitigated.

6.3 Eligibility to enter further chains of custody As described in the traceability section above, there are uncertainties regarding what documents/information is available to trace Manila Clam produced in Putian to the Donggang grow- out area. It is unknown what mechanisms exist to identify Manila clam progeny throughout the production process (i.e. Putian and Donggang) as having originated from mainly broodstock from the wild population.

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The information below is a draft and will be completed at the PCDR stage.

The team has concluded and determined that the product originating from the UoC will be eligible to enter further certified chains of custody and be sold as MSC certified or carry the MSC ecolabel. At this time, the point of intended change of ownership of product is the initial sale/purchase/sourcing of Manila clam seed in Putian from the hatchery. The fishery certificate can only extend up to the hatchery stage, as currently, the mechanisms to determine/trace clam production in Putian to ensure that broodstock originated from the wild population are unknown.

6.4 Eligibility of Inseparable or Practicably Inseparable (IPI) stock(s) to Enter Further Chains of Custody Manila clam from the local, wild stock in Donggang may settle and grow in the subtidal leased ongrowing beds in the Yalu Estuary. If present, any local Manila clam will be inseparable or practically inseparable (IPI) from the Putian-derived stock that is ongrown in the subtidal leased beds as the target of the fishery in Donggang.

However, any local Manila clam are unlikely to be present in more than extremely small quantities because the stock occurs in the intertidal almost exclusively, and because of the nature of the enhanced fishery, where the target, Putian-derived Manila clams are stocked within the leased beds. If this low level of occurrence is confirmed, it is expected that an exemption to the IPI requirements will be sought (FCP v.2.1 7.5.11).

As the Donggang fishery is entirely subtidal, and does not extend beyond the leased areas into the intertidal, there is negligible risk that the impact of the UoA on the local, wild stock would be significant. Nevertheless, this would need to be confirmed.

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Holland, D.A. & K.K. Chew (1974). Reproductive cycle of the Japanese littleneck Clam (Venerupis japonica) from Hood Canal, Washington). Proceedings of the National Shellfish Association, V. 64, pp. 53-58.

Hu, G.-W., Yam, X.-W., Zhu, D.-P. & H.-T. Nie (2014). Isolation and characterization of fourteen polymorphic microsatellite loci in the Manila clam (Ruditapes philippinarum). Conservation Genetic Resources, V. 6, pp. 251-253.

Huang, S. & Y. He (2019). Management of China's capture fisheries: Review and prospect. Aquaculture and Fisheries. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aaf.2019.05.004.

Jurić, I., Bušelić, I., Ezgeta-Balić, D., Vrgoč, N. & M. Peharda (2012). Age, Growth and Condition Index of Venerupis decussata (Linnaeus, 1758) in the Eastern Adriatic Sea. Turkish Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences, V. 12, pp. 613-618.

Li, X., Xu G., Yan, B., Yang J. , Zhao, Y., Xu J. & P. Xu (2009). Biochemical genetic structure and variation in different populations of Ruditapes philippinarum. Marine Science, V. 33, pp. 61-65.

Mao, Y. Lin, F., Fang, J., Fang, J., Li, J. & M. Du (2019). Bivalve Production in China. Chapter 4. Pp 51- 72 . In: A. C. Smaal et al. (eds.), Goods and Services of Marine Bivalves, SpringerLink https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-96776-9_4.

MARA (2002). Notice on the ‘Complete tidal flats aquaculture certificate system pilot project.’ (农业部关于印完善水域滩涂养殖证制度试行方案》的通知)

MARA. Fisheries Bureau: institutional responsibilities and organization. http://www.yyj.moa.gov.cn/jgzn/. (Website accessed 2019).

Ministry of Agriculture (2009). Main functions of the Bureau of Fisheries. Date 2009-06-25. Website accessed October 2019. http://english.agri.gov.cn/aboutmoa/departments/201301/t20130115_9518.htm.

Ministry of Agriculture (2013) Notice of the Ministry of Agriculture on the implementation of the minimum mesh size system for marine fishing and fishing gear 农业部关于实施海洋捕捞准用渔具和过渡渔具最小网目尺寸制度的通告 (http://jiuban.moa.gov.cn/zwllm/tzgg/tz/201312/t20131205_3699050.htm).

Ministry of Agriculture (2018). Fishery fishing license management regulations http://www.gov.cn/gongbao/content/2019/content_5368590.html.

MSC (2018a). MSC Fisheries Standard, version 2.01. Marine Stewardship Council, London. 31st august 2018, 289 pp.

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MSC (2018b). MSC Fisheries Certification Process, version 2.1. Marine Stewardship Council, London. 31st August 2018, 189 pp.

MSC (2019). MSC General Certification Requirements, version 2.4.1. Marine Stewardship Council, London. 7 May 2019, 38 pp.

Park, K.-I., Yang, H.-S., Kang, D.-H. & K.-S. Choi (2010). Density dependent growth and mortality of Manila clam Ruditapes philippinarum reared in cages in Gomso-Bay, Korea. The Korean Journal of Malacology. 26 (1):91-95

Ponurovskii, S.K. (2008). Population structure and growth of the Japanese littleneck clam Venerupis philippinarum in Amursky Bay, Sea of Japan. Russian Journal of Marine Biology, V. 5, pp. 329-332.

Ponurovsky, S.K. & Y.M. Yakovev (1992) The reproductive biology of the Japanese littleneck, Tapes philippinarum (A. Adams and Reeve, 1850) (Bivalvia: Veneridea). Journal of Shellfish Research, V. 11, pp. 265-277.

Putian Municipal People's Government (2018). Provisions on the minimum nets and illegal fishing gear in the work plan for the cleanup and remediation of offset fishing gears in Putian City in 2018 年莆田市违规渔具清理整治工作方案 .

Putian Clam Association (Undated). Putian Clam Association Charter.

Putian People’s Government (2018). Plan for Aquaculture Waters and Tidal Flats in Putian City (2018- 2030).

Qi, Z., Wang, J., Huang, H., Liu, Y., Li, C., Chen, S., & P. Sun (2012). Potential assessment of carbon sink capacity by marine bivalves and seaweeds in Guangdong province [J]. South China Fisheries Science, 1

Ren, Y., Gao, T. & T. Yang (2006). Isozyme analysis on the populations of Ruditapes philippinarum. Journal of Ocean University of China, V. 5, pp. 58-62.

Riegen, A.C. Vaughan, G. R. & K.G. Rogers (2014). The Yalu Jiang Estuary Shorebird Survey Report 1999- 2010. Published by, Yalu Jiang Estuary Wetland National Nature Reserve, China and Miranda Naturalists’ Trust, New Zealand.

Sekine, Y., Yamakawa, H., Takazawa, S. Lin, Y. & M. Toda (2006). Geographic variation of the COX1 gene of the short-neck clam Ruditapes philippinarum in coastal regions of Japan and China. Venus, V. 65, pp. 229-240.

Sciberras, M., Hiddink, J.G., Jennings, S., Szostek, C.L., Hughes, K.M., Kneafsey, B., Clarke, L.J., Ellis, N., Rijnsdorp, A.D., McConnaughey, R.A., Hilborn, R., Collie, J.S., Pitcher, C.R., Amoroso, R.O., Parma, A.M., Suuronen, P. & M.J. Kaiser (2018). Response of benthic fauna to experimental bottom fishing: a global meta-analysis. Fish and Fisheries, V. 19, pp. 698–715.

Shean, R. (2011). Venerupis philippinarum, Japanese littleneck clam. FISH 423: Aquatic Invasion Ecology. 14 pp. Fall 2011. http://depts.washington.edu/oldenlab/wordpress/wp- content/uploads/2013/03/Venerupis-philippinarum_Shean.pdf.

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Taihong (2019a). The additional answers highlighted by red color. Excel file provided by the client to the Assessment Team, August 2019.

Taihong (2019b). Habitat mapping and stock survey in Donggang. Yalu River Manila Clam Fishery Improvement Project. Report provided by Taihong Food Co. Ltd. for the assessment. 21 pp.

Taihong (undated a). Sustainable fishery improvement of plan of the Manila clam in the Estuary of the Yalu River; Ecological Assessment (IPG 7). Unattributed report provided by Taihong Food Co. Ltd. for the assessment. 10 pp.

Taihong (undated b). 4 IPG 4&6 Gulf Report-EN Meizhou Bay（英文加图版）湄洲湾. Unattributed report provided by Taihong Food Co. Ltd. for the assessment. 8 pp.

Taihong (undated c). 4 IPG 4&6 Gulf Report-EN Pinghai Bay（平海湾 habitat mapping 英文版. Unattributed report provided by Taihong Food Co. Ltd. for the assessment. 4 pp.

Taihong (undated d). 4 IPG 4&6 Gulf Report-EN Xinghau Bay（兴化湾 habitat mapping 概况英文版. Unattributed report provided by Taihong Food Co. Ltd. for the assessment. 4 pp.

Vargas, K., Hamasaki, K., Asakura, Y., Nakajima, K., Ikeda, M., Tsuchiya, K. Taniguchi, N. & S. Kitada (2010). Genetic diversity and differentiation in allozymes and shell sculpture of the clams Ruditapes spp. in natural populations of Japan and China. Fish Genetics and Breeding Science, V. 40, pp. 37-46.

WWF (2018a) The Implementation Plan of Habitat Mapping and Stock Assessment of Manila clam in Putian.

WWF (2018b). Clam certification in the Yalu River Estuary; survey report on habitat of Manila Clam in Putian. WWF Beijing Office. July 10 2018.

Yan, X (undated). Substainable Fishery Improvement Plan of Manila Clam in the Estuary of Yalu River; Genetic and Translocation Risk Assessment (IPG1,5,8). 4 pp.

Yan, X., Yu, Z., Qin, Y., Yang, F., Wang J., Zhang, Y., Yang, F. and G. Zhang (2011). Development of EST- SSRs markers and analysis of genetic diversities among different geographical populations of Manila clam Ruditapes philippinarum. Acta Ecologica Sinica, V. 31, pp. 4090-4098.

Yu, Z.F., Yan, XW., Yang, F., Wang., J.H., Zhang, Y.H., Yang, F. & G.F. Zhang (2011). Genetic diversity of different generations of the Dalian population of Manila clam Ruditapes philippinarum through selective breeding. Acta Ecologica Sinica, V. 31, pp. 4199-4206

Zeng, Z. (2018). The Strategy of Aquaculture (Harvesting) for Manila Clam in Putian, Fujian Province.

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8 Scoring

8.1 Summary of Performance Indicator level scores Note these scores are draft, only, and may be subject to change following consideration of information collected during consultation and other information collected at the site visit. Element 1 is the hatchery and seed operation in the Putian portion of the fishery, and Element 2 is the grow-out stage in Donggang.

Table 8. Summary of PI scores and associated weights used to calculate Principle scores.

Element 1 Element 2 Final Principle Component Wt Performance Indicator (PI) Wt Score Score Score 1.1.1 Stock status 0.5 ≥80 N/A ≥80 Outcome 0.333 1.1.2 Stock rebuilding 0.0 N/A N/A N/A 1.1.3 Genetic outcome 0.5 60-75 ≥80 60-75 1.2.1 Harvest strategy 0.167 ≥80 N/A ≥80 One 1.2.2 Harvest control rules & tools 0.167 60-75 N/A 60-75 1.2.3 Information & monitoring 0.167 60-75 ≥80 60-75 Management 0.667 1.2.4 Assessment of stock status 0.167 80 N/A 80 1.2.5 Genetic management 0.167 60-75 ≥80 60-75 1.2.6 Genetic information 0.167 60-75 ≥80 60-75 2.1.1 Outcome 0.333 ≥80 ≥80 ≥80 Primary 0.167 2.1.2 Management strategy 0.333 ≥80 ≥80 ≥80 species 2.1.3 Information/Monitoring 0.333 >80 ≥80 >80 2.2.1 Outcome 0.333 ≥80 ≥80 ≥80 Secondary 0.167 2.2.2 Management strategy 0.333 ≥80 ≥80 ≥80 species 2.2.3 Information/Monitoring 0.333 60-75 ≥80 60-75 2.3.1 Outcome 0.333 ≥80 ≥80 ≥80 ETP species 0.167 2.3.2 Management strategy 0.333 60-75 60-75 60-75 2.3.3 Information strategy 0.333 60-75 ≥80 60-75 Two 2.4.1 Outcome 0.333 ≥80 ≥80 ≥80 Habitats 0.167 2.4.2 Management strategy 0.333 ≥80 ≥80 ≥80 2.4.3 Information 0.333 ≥80 ≥80 ≥80 2.5.1 Outcome 0.333 ≥80 ≥80 ≥80 Ecosystem 0.167 2.5.2 Management 0.333 ≥80 ≥80 ≥80 2.5.3 Information 0.333 ≥80 ≥80 ≥80 2.6.1 Outcome 0.333 N/A 60-75 60-75 Translocation 0.167 2.6.2 Management 0.333 N/A 60-75 60-75 2.6.3 Information 0.333 N/A 60 60 3.1.1 Legal &/or customary framework 0.333 ≥80 ≥80 ≥80 Governance Consultation, roles & 0.5 3.1.2 0.333 60-75 60-75 60-75 and policy responsibilities 3.1.3 Long term objectives 0.333 ≥80 ≥80 ≥80 Three 3.2.1 Fishery specific objectives 0.25 60-75 ≥80 60-75 Fishery 3.2.2 Decision making processes 0.25 60-75 60-75 60-75 specific 0.5 3.2.3 Compliance & enforcement 0.25 60-75 60-75 60-75 management Monitoring & management system 3.2.4 0.25 ≥80 ≥80 ≥80 performance evaluation

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Note these scores are draft, only, and may be subject to change following consideration of information collected during consultation and other information collected at the site visit.

All three Principles are currently estimated to be scored at <80 overall because although there are no PIs scored at <60, it is thought that the number of PIs scored at 60-75 would mean that the score overall would not meet the MSC passing requirement of ≥80 (Background to Annex GSA Guidance, MSC 2018a). However, given some of the information provided, if the information gaps are filled/current information corroborated at the onsite, scores (particularly for Principle 3) are expected to increase.

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8.2 Principle 1

8.2.1.1 Life history information – Manila clam (Ruditapes philippinarum)

Taxonomic classification

Class: Bivalvia Order: Venerida Family: Veneridae Genus: Ruditapes Species: philippinarum Common name: Manila clam

Biology

The Manila clam (Ruditapes philippinarum) is native to China with a wide distribution in the Indian and Pacific Oceans from Pakistan to the Russian Federation (Kuril Islands). Manila clam are broadcast spawners (fecundity at 1.04 x 106 in Fujian: Yan et al, 2012) and they can grow to 80 mm in shell length (Poppe and Goto 1993) and maximum average age at 7-8 years (Ponurovskii, 2008; Garaulet et al. 2012) and live up to 16 years (DFO 1999).

Manila clam is a species widely distributed in coastal areas of China and is highly productive in Shandong, Liaoning, Zhejiang and Fujian coastal areas in China. Annual production of R. philippinarum (about 3.2 Mt) accounts for about 62.7% of mudflat bivalve production and about 24.3% of total bivalve production in 2014 (Yan 2014). Appropriate reproduction water temperature is at 20 °C. With a fecundity of about 2–6 million per clam per year, Manila clam spawns 3–4 times during the reproductive season, and most spawning activity happens during the high tide and in the evening (Yan 2005; Zhang et al. 2006). Park et al. (2010) indicated that Manila clam growth and mortality is density dependent and the growth and survival rate is negatively correlated with the density.

Behaviour

Manila clams make shallow burrows in the sand, gravel or mud in the mid-intertidal zone. However, because they do not migrate after their settlement in a beach and they do not burrow deeply, they can experience increased mortality during the cold temperature season (DFO, 1999). Although there may be some movement of Manila clams on the beach, distinct growth rates on upper and lower portion of beach indicate that these movements are relatively limited. Manila clams are filter feeders, and thus can accumulate fecal contaminants (bacteria and viruses that can cause disease) which originate in fecal materials from human, wildlife or agriculture sources. Manila clam can also accumulate algal toxins including those causing paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP) (DFO, 1999).

Growth and Natural Mortality

Manila clams are broadcast spawners, synchronously releasing gametes into the water column, where fertilization occurs. The maximum shell length in Manila clam is known up to 80mm in total shell length at the age of 8-10 years. The maximum age in western coast of Canada is 16 years. Growth is greatly affected by tidal elevation and substrate characteristics, and growth can vary as much as between different areas of the same beach as between different beaches. As they mainly live high in the

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SCS Global Services Report intertidal zone and do not burrow deeply into the sediment, they are susceptible to environmentally- induced mortality. Ren et al. (2008) reported the natural mortality rate at 35% from age 1 to 2 and 47% from age 2 to 3 in Jiaozhou Bay, China. The natural mortality was 35% from ages 1 to 2 and 47% from ages 2 to 3. The biomass increment from ages 1 to 2 is extremely high (98%) but low (4.7%) from age 2 to 3. The natural mortality of transplanted clams in May/June are at 13.2%, and varies between 3 and 7% until stabilizes around 2% in the remaining of the year. The mortality rate increases drastically for age 2 clams with lower growth rate (Ren et al, 2008). Based on recently received information (Taihong, pers. comm., December 2019), the survival rates at different life stages of wild and hatchery-origin Manila clam are as follows: broodstock survival rate at catch: 50-80%, spawning to sand seedling survival rate: 14%; sand seedlings to white seedlings survival rate: 30%; white seedlings through transportation to Donggang: 90%; and white seedling to harvestable size in Donggang: 10-20%.

Reproduction and Recruitment

Average age at maturity is 2-4 years (Jurić et al., 2012) at the shell length of 20-25mm (DFO 1999). Clam reaches at maturity as small as 5-10mm, but most individuals do not spawn until shell length is at least 20mm (Holland and Chew, 1974). They are strictly gonochoric and their gonads are represented by a diffused tissue closely linked to the digestive system. The period of reproduction varies, according to the geographical area; spawning usually occurs between 20-25 °C. Spawning can occur either once or twice every year depending on location and environmental factors (Ponorovsky and Yokovev, 1992).

In southern China, Manila clam spawns 3–4 times during the reproductive season, and most spawning activity happens during the high tide and in the evening (Zhang et al. 2006). A period of sexual rest is observed from late autumn to early winter. Gametogenesis in the wild lasts 2-5 months, followed by the spawning. A second spawning event may occur in the same season, 2-3 months later. The pre- winter recovery phase facilitates energy build up, by filtering seawater still rich in organic matter and phytoplankton. Temperature and feeding are the two main parameters affecting gametogenesis, which can be initiated at 8-10 °C and is accelerated by rising seawater temperature. Its duration decreases from 5 to 2 months between 14 and 24 °C. Within this temperature range, they are ready to spawn. Although the optimal temperature is between 20 and 22 °C, 12 °C is the minimum threshold below which this species cannot spawn efficiently (FAO, 2009).

Larval development lasts 2 to 4 weeks before spatfall. Settlement size is between 190 and 235 µm in shell length. Many external factors regulate spatfall success in the wild, such as temperature, salinity and currents. Larval movement mainly depends on wind driven and tidal currents. Adding pea gravel and small rocks can facilitate species recruitment in natural setting areas. The larvae settle by attaching a byssus to a pebble or piece of shell (FAO, 2009). In China, the reproductive season of Manila clams varies in regions: from June to August along Liaoning coast, in late May and late September along Shandong coast, and in late September to November along Fujian coastal region (Mao et al., 2019).

Distribution and Stock Structure

Manila clam (R. philippinarum) is the most important commercial fisheries species, which occurs in East Asia, North America and Europe. Although it is native to Sakhalin, Japan, Korea and China, it was accidentally introduced into Puget Sound, Washington, USA, with the Pacific oyster Crassostrea gigas, in the 1930s, and it has been cultured since the late 1970s. In the early 1970s, it was introduced from

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SCS Global Services Report the USA for aquaculture purposes to France and the UK; it was introduced to Italy in the 1980s and to Ireland in 1984, and from the UK to Israel (Shean, 2011).

8.2.1.2 Status of stocks

The Manila clam Ruditapes philippinarum fishery in Putian and Donggang is considered as an enhanced Hatch and Catch (HAC) fishery with seed supplied from hatchery operations in Putian, Fujian Province and harvested by dredge in sub-tidal waters of Donggang City, Liaoning Province in China. Broodstock for hatchery operation in Putian are gathered by two methods, local clam fishery operated by motor vessel with conventional dredge in subtidal zone (wild clam) and collection by manpower from natural muddy flats in intertidal zone (hatchery origin clam). The former method i.e. local fishery fishing broodstock for hatchery operation by means of powerboat with dredge is considered as UoA. Based on the latest information (Anonymous 2019), it is understood that about 2,500 t of adult wild clams are selected as broodstock from the local subtidal fishery, from an annual catch of about 4,000 t, although the catch is reported to be capped at 10,000 t from this area. The excess stock is understood to be sold to market, but these clams are not part of the UoA for the Yalu Clam Fishery.

There is limited information available on stock status of adult clams (broodstock), but the Assessment Team was informed that the stock biomass stands at approximately 33,000 t. The method of stock assessment or the extent over which this stock is considered to occur is not known to the Assessment Team. However, it seems that the stock has not encountered any depressed condition along the history of the fishery over 35 years, which may partially due to the species reproductive characteristics as broadcast spawner with multiple spawing within a season and reaching sexual maturity as early as at age 1.

The aim of Donggang fishery is not intended to achieve sustainable long-term harvest from the stock. Instead, the aim of the Donggang element is to allow the white seeds from Putian to grow on to a market size in the leased, subtidal areas, and then to harvest as much as possible of the stock within the leased areas at harvest with well predetermined fishing protocol.

8.2.1.3 Seasonal Operation of the Fishery

Putian Element

No information was available on the monthly catch of local Manila clam fishery. However, there is a fishing season closure law at pan-Chinese level (closure for Fujian province is between May 1 and August 16). Notice of the Putian Ocean and Fisheries Bureau on Work Plan for the Implementation of the 2018 moratorium are implemented and enforced by Putian OFB in order to protect breeding population. The local clam fishery, therefore, stop harvest between May and the end of August (Putian Government, 2018).

Donggang Element

Fishing starts in April and ends in November with a constant monthly catch around 2,000t between April and September and gradual decrease in monthly catch towards November based on logbook data between 2015 and 2019. Fishing is conducted with controlled schedule with one vessel a day among 3 vessels alternatively deployed through a fishing season. Fishing zone is also alternatively used e.g. zone A only for 2015 until June 2016, switched to B in July 2016 till the end of 2017, then zone A

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SCS Global Services Report and B are alternated monthly during 2018. Daily starting time of fishery operation recorded on the logbook suggests that the fishing is conducted according to tidal cycle.

8.2.1.4 Catch profiles

Putian Element

There are two components of the fishery, adult clam fishery from the wild area in subtidal zone by commercial clam harvesters as well as adult clam collection by each farmer-proprietor of the tidal flat. It is understood that the amount of broodstock required for hatchery operation from local Manila clam fishery varies depending on the production/capture of adult clam on their tidal flat.

There is a commercial fishery on adult Manila clam in intertidal and subtidal zones in three bays (Meizhou, Pinghai and Xinghau) in Putian. Cappell (2019) suggests that a total of approximately 200,000 t of adult Manila clams were captured annually by local fishery with conventional clam dredge and about 0.02% of which (40 t) were used for broodstock for hatchery operation and the remaining majority are sold to the market. Cappell (2019) mentioned that “The manila clam production in Putian relies on wild stocks for broodstock, which are gathered each year from shallow sea areas. Broodstock is selected from wild harvested clams (based on good size and condition) and relaid in prepared ponds.”

However, recently obtained information (Anonymous 2019) suggested that the standing stock is estimated at approximately 33,000 t of which about 4,000 t are exploited annually (2,500 t for broodstock and 1,500 t are sold to the market). Therefore, more than 98% of brood stock are captured in the wild (i.e. 2,500 t out of 2,540 t of broodstock used for hatchery operation).

No detailed information on the historical catch of wild adult clams, catch rate or size composition was available at the time of preparation for this report.

Donggang Element

The fishery of Manila clam starts in April and last until mid-November on an annual basis. Detailed daily catch logbook data are available between 2015 and 2019 (not complete) with total catch of Manila clam, with total by-catch species, fished area, boat name, fishing starting and ending time. The fishery starts in April until mid-November. The monthly catch between April and August is stable at 2,000 t level and the catch gradually decrease from August to November (Figure 6). Total annual landings between 2015 and 2018 were stable at 14,000-15,000 level, but in 2018 the amount of harvest decreased due to a market demand issue (Figure 7).

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2500

2000

1500

1000

500

2015 2016 2017 2018 2019

Figure 6. Manila clam monthly landings (t) in Donggang between 2015 and 2019 (2019 not complete)

16000

14000

12000

10000

8000

6000

4000

2000

0 Total 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019

Figure 7. Annual manila clam landings (t) in Donggang.

8.2.1.5 Total Allowable Catch (TAC) and catch data

Putian Element

There is no explicitly set TAC for the wild fishery. The wild fishery landings are destinated to two distinct buyers, fishery market and hatchery operation as a broodstock. According to Cappell (2019) 200,000 t of wild clam were caught (note 42,448 t was also listed in Section 2.3.3). The major part of catch is understood to be sold to the fishery market and only 40 t is used by or sold to clam farmers as a broodstock (note 4,000 t was also listed in the Executive Summary). However, recent information (Anonymous 2019) suggests that recent catch level is at around 4,000 t from subtidal zone of which

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2,500 are used as broodstock for hatchery operation and the remaining 1,500 t are sold to the market (exploitation rate at 12%). Estimated total standing stock is around 33,000 t and the Putian clam association set a tentative maximum catch limit at 10,000 t which corresponds to 33% of exploitation rate (Anonymous 2018).

Donggang Element

The aim of the Donggang fishery is to translocate white seed from Putian in to the leased, subtidal areas, allow the stock to grow on to a market size, and then to harvest as much as possible of the stock within the leased areas at harvest. The harvest amount varied very little between 2015 and 2017 at 14,000-15,000 t level and a significant decline occurred (7,000 t) due to the decrease in market demand (K. Xing, pers. comm.). The 2019 harvest record is not complete.

Table 9. Total Allowable Catch (TAC) and catch data

Putian (Total catch for Putian (2018) market and hatchery operation) = 4,040 t Total catch Year Amount Donggang (2015- 2017) Donggang (Harvest amount) = 140,000 t 2018 (Putian) Putian = Approx. 45%

UoA share of Total catch Year Amount 2015 -17 Donggang = Approx. (Donggang) 10% Year Putian = Approx. 40t Total green weight catch by UoC (most 2018 Amount recent) Donggang = 6994.5 t Year Putian = Approx. 40t (second 2018 (Putian) Total green weight catch by UoC Amount most 2017 Donggang = 14,100 t recent)

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8.3 Principle 1 Performance Indicator scores and rationales It is noted here that the focus of the MSC Principle 1 assessment, even in an enhanced bivalve ‘hatch and catch’ (HAC) fishery, is on the status, management and information of the wild stock (i.e., in the case of the Putian element of the fishery, it is the local, Putian stock of Manila clams which were spawned by parents that were not cultivated, and not clams that were spawned in ponds and subsequently moved out into open intertidal or subtidal areas of the local bays; in the case of the Donggang element, it is the local stock of Manila clams which occurs in the intertidal areas rather than clams which are imported from Putian and seeded in to the subtidal leased areas). The genetic outcome, management and information PIs (1.1.3, 1.2.5 and 1.2.6) are then focused on the impact of the enhancement activity in each location on the wild populations in each location.

PI 1.1.1 – Stock Status PI 1.1.1 The stock is at a level which maintains high productivity and has a low probability of recruitment overfishing Scoring Issue SG 60 SG 80 SG 100

A Stock status relative to recruitment impairment

Guide It is likely that the stock is It is highly likely that the There is a high degree of post above the point where stock is above the PRI. certainty that the stock is recruitment would be above the PRI. impaired (PRI). Met? Scored with RBF (Putian) Scored with RBF (Putian) Scored with RBF (Putian) N/A (Donggang) N/A (Donggang) N/A (Donggang) Rationale

Stock status: Putian element The Manila clam fishery in Putian is conducted locally for both conventional products sold for the market and broodstock for aquaculture operation using dredge in subtidal zone. The Assessment Team has received the information on annual total landings be approximately at 4,000 t in Putian (Anonymous, 2018), of which the 1,500 t will be sold to the market and 2,500 t of the largest and best clam are retained for the regionally operated hatchery operation. In addition, 40 t of broodstock cultivated on the tidal flat are used for hatchery operation. The stock status of wild clam in Putian (Meizhou, Pinghai and Xinghau bays).‘The implementation Plan of Habitat Mapping and Stock Assessment of Manila Clam in Putian’ which describes some information on the clam density. In addition, the OFB is planned to undertake several surveys on the sea area (Zeng, 2018). And the Department of Marine Fisheries of Putian City has investigated the natural state of the sea area under its jurisdiction and made a comprehensive assessment of the biological resources (part 1 of the Plan, Minutes of Donggang Shellfish Industry Development and Planning Workshop July 23, 2017). However, these results do not lead to either a Manila clam stock status nor a stock abundance estimate in Putian. Cappell (2019) described that they are mainly collected using hand rakes from natural inter-tidal areas specifically set aside as a broodstock reserve and sub-tidal fishing using dredges does take place as a commercial fishery. There are 2,271 fishing vessels in Putian (Taihong, pers. comm, December 2019), but it is unclear how many of which are fishing Manila clam. Bi-annual estimated CPUE’s seem to be stable within a year and over years in 2014, 16 and 18. Hu et al. (2014) mentioned that the wild stocks of R. philippinarum have been declining dramatically for last decades due to over-exploitation and the deterioration of environmental conditions in China. However, they did not give further explanation nor any references. Some limited information provided/available to the Assessment Team on the local clam fishery in Putian e.g. standing stock estimate, biannual/seasonal catch rate for 3 years)..

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Despite the scarcity of the stock data, the following observations suggest that it is likely that the wild stock in Putian is above the PRI. 1: The local fishery has been conducted for more than 35 years in Putian and no problem in stock status has been identified; 2: Based on the species characteristics (Average age at maturity at 2-4 years, Average maximum age around 14 years, fecundity at 1.04 x 10 6, Maximum size at 80mm SL, Average size at maturity at 20-55 mm SL, Trophic level around 2 and broadcast spawners and sexual maturity at Age 1, Manila clam is determined as a highly productive and robust species. Ren et al. (2008) reported that transplanted aquaculture origin Manila clam in Jiaozhou Bay (Qingdao) reach their gonadal maturity as early as at age 1. Age 2 clams have a higher gonad index but maturity cycle of both age are synchronized. 3: Unverified information suggests the standing stock level at approximately 33,000 t, of which only 4,000 t are exploited (12% exploitation rate). At the pre-assessment phase (Cappell, 2019), it was determined the lack of quantified data on Manila clam, the use of Consequence Analysis and secondly a Productivity Susceptibility Analysis were conducted resulted in the MSC final score of 80 and 100, respectively. For the Putian element, the Assessment Team concluded that RBF approach is necessary; a similar score is expected as generated in the pre-assessment process. Stock status: Donggang element The local stock in Donggang is an intertidal stock that matures and spawns earlier in the year than the Putian stock that is transported in to the area. There is a risk assessment conducted on the likelihood of genetic impact (Minutes of Donggang Shellfish Industry Development and Planning Workshop July 23, 2017) between wild Donggang-origin and Putian-origin stocks in Yalu river. The existing references (Yan et al. 2005; Anonymous, 2017) show unlikelihood of the severe and irreversible impact on the genetic structure of wild stocks by hybridization between two stocks because of significant difference in gonadal development cycle, spawning timing and breeding season and characteristics of larval stages (Yan et al. 2005). In addition, Hu et al. (2016) showed a high genetic differentiation between two populations after more than 35 years of translocation practice. Given the lack of interaction between the wild and cultivated stock in Donggang, this SI is not scored. b Stock status in relation to achievement of Maximum Sustainable Yield (MSY)

Guide The stock is at or fluctuating There is a high degree of post around a level consistent certainty that the stock has with MSY. been fluctuating around a level consistent with MSY or has been above this level over recent years. Met? Scored with RBF (Putian) Scored with RBF (Putian) N/A (Donggang) N/A (Donggang) Rationale

Stock status: Putian element There is no stock assessment reference point available either derived from analytical stock assessment or using empirical approaches to the Putian Manila clam broodstock fishery. Only available unsubstantiated information indicates 33,000 t of standing stock (survey year not specified) in subtidal area in Putian. And there is a maximum exploitation limit set by Putian clam associationat 10,000 t which is 2.5 times higher than the current catch (4,000 t). Although the current (12%) and maximum (33%) exploitation rates sound reasonable, detailed information is further required for scoring. As such, the Risk-Based framework is necessary to be performed (Scale Intensity Consequence Analysis followed by Productivity Susceptibility Analysis). Stock status: Donggang element

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As detailed in SIa, given the lack of interaction between the wild and cultivated stock in Donggang, this SI is not scored. References

Anonymous, 2018. Annual report of Putian Clam Association No. 5. Cappell, R. (2019) Yalu estuary clam MSC Pre-Assessment (revised). Poseidon Aquatic Resource Management Ltd., 15 April 2019, 100 pp. Hu, G.-W., Yam, X.-W., Zhu, D.-P. &H.-T., Nie (2014). Isolation and characterization of fourteen polymorphic microsatellite loci in the Manila clam (Ruditapes philippinarum). Conservation Genetic Resources, V. 6, pp. 251-253. Ren Y., Xu B., Guo Y., Ming Y., and J. Yang, ., 2008. Growth, mortality and reproduction of the transplanted Manila clam (Ruditapes philippinarum Adams & Reeve 1850) in Jiaozhou Bay. Aquaculture Research, 39:1759- 1768. Zeng, Z. (2018). The Strategy of Aquaculture (Harvesting) for Manila Clam in Putian, Fujian Province. Stock status relative to reference points

Type of reference point Value of reference point Current stock status relative to reference point Reference point used in scoring Scored with RBF (Putian) stock relative to N/A (Donggang PRI (SIa) Reference point used in scoring Scored with RBF (Putian) stock relative to N/A (Donggang MSY (SIb) Draft scoring range and information gap indicator added at Announcement Comment Draft Report

Draft scoring range Scored with RBF: ≥80

Information gap indicator In particular, more information will be sought during consultation on the following: • Historical catch volumes from the local fishery destinated for market and confirming quantities of broodstock collected each year and seasonality of the catch and about the local fishery. • Stock status of Manila clam in the Putian region. • Stocking protocols for pond culture (density or kg/Ha) with historical record of annual total production of white seeds sold to all destination (by destination), estimated amount of white seeds kept for culture in Putian Overall Performance Indicator scores added from Client and Peer Review Draft Report

Overall Performance Indicator score ≥80

Condition number (if relevant)

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PI 1.1.2 – Stock rebuilding PI 1.1.2 Where the stock is reduced, there is evidence of stock rebuilding within a specified timeframe Scoring Issue SG 60 SG 80 SG 100

a Rebuilding timeframes

Guide A rebuilding timeframe is The shortest practicable Post specified for the stock that rebuilding timeframe is is the shorter of 20 years specified which does not or 2 times its generation exceed one generation time time. For cases where 2 for the stock. generations is less than 5 years, the rebuilding timeframe is up to 5 years. Met? N/A – both elements N/A – both elements

Rationale

As the RBF will be used for PI 1.1.1, this PI is not scored (Table PF1, MSC 2018b) b Rebuilding evaluation

Guide Monitoring is in place to There is evidence that the There is strong evidence that Post determine whether the rebuilding strategies are the rebuilding strategies are rebuilding strategies are rebuilding stocks, or it is rebuilding stocks, or it is effective in rebuilding the likely based on simulation highly likely based on stock within the specified modelling, exploitation simulation modelling, timeframe. rates or previous exploitation rates or previous performance that they will performance that they will be be able to rebuild the able to rebuild the stock stock within the specified within the specified timeframe. timeframe. Met? N/A – both elements N/A – both elements N/A – both elements

Rationale

As the RBF will be used for PI 1.1.1, this PI is not scored (Table PF1, MSC 2018b) References

MSC (2018b). MSC Fisheries Certification Process, version 2.1. Marine Stewardship Council, London. 31st August 2018, 189 pp. Draft scoring range and information gap indicator added at Announcement Comment Draft Report

Draft scoring range N/A Information gap indicator N/A

Overall Performance Indicator scores added from Client and Peer Review Draft Report

Overall Performance Indicator score Condition number (if relevant)

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PI 1.1.3 – Genetics outcome PI 1.1.3 The fishery has negligible discernible impact on the genetic structure of the population

Scoring Issue SG 60 SG 80 SG 100

a Genetic impact of enhancement activity

Guide The fishery is unlikely to The fishery is highly unlikely An independent peer- post impact genetic structure of to impact genetic structure reviewed scientific wild populations to a point of wild populations to a point assessment confirms with a where there would be where there would be high degree of certainty that serious or irreversible harm serious or irreversible harm. there are no risks to the genetic structure of the wild population associated with the enhancement activity. Met? Yes- (Putian) No (Putian) No – both elements Yes – (Donggang) Yes (Donggang) Rationale

Scoring the Principle 1 genetic outcome PI should include consideration of the whole production cycle: seed production from broodstock in Fujian Province and grow-out in Liaoning Province. Cappell (2019) described the necessity of identifying key management interventions and additional information through a scientific workshop on Manila clam genetics and management. Subsequent ‘Clam management workshop’ and ‘Genetic risk assessment’ were conducted, but the genetic review was namely focused on translocation from Putian to Donggang and the Donggang grow out fishery, and little is examined the genetic risks on the wild clam population in Putian by hatchery seed production. Genetic impacts: Putian element Broodstock destined for seed culture is selected from the local fishery by its size and health condition (Prof. Yan, Discussion at the site meeting, April 14-15 2019; Cappell 2019). And some portion of unharvested hatchery grown clams might co-inhabit with wild clams. As such, risks may be posed to genetic diversity through (phenotype- based) selective breeding (‘domestication’ – GSB 2.1.3, MSC 2018a), depending on selection intensity, generation intervals and heritability. The other risk posed to the wild population in Putian occurs because a portion of the cultivated white seed production is left on the beds (Cappell, 2019) for growing to the broodstock, which may pose a risk to the genetics of the Putian population as a whole due to inbreeding (heterosis) depending on the importance of the cultured vis-à-vis wild population. GSB2.1.3 (MSC 2018a) provides best practice guidance for managing the genetic impacts of hatchery enhancement: Maintaining a large number of broodstock to ensure against inbreeding and random genetic changes: It is understood that around 2,500 t of broodstock collected from the wild is used in ponds in the Putian area (Taihong, pers. comm, December 2019). This appears to be a relatively small quantity (7.5%) compared to the standing stock (33,000 t), and should be adequate to ‘ensure against inbreeding and random genetic changes’, but the Assessment Team is not able to confirm that this is the case at the time of drafting the ACDR. Rotating broodstock within spawning seasons and between years: Rotation of broodstock between years/spawning seasons is not actively done under a planned rotation schedule. It is understood that around 2,500 t of broodstock collected from the wild is used in ponds in the Putian area (Taihong, pers. comm, December 2019). This appears to be a relatively small quantity (7.5%) compared to the standing stock (33,000 t), although these quantities and the required quantity for broodstock for hatchery operation need to be confirmed, if confirmed, the rotation of broodstock between hatchery origin and wild origin should be efficient.

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Avoiding the return of hatchery-propagated stock to the hatchery and using it as broodstock: Manila clam captured in the local fishery in Putian are used as broodstock for seed culture. A proportion of the seed produced through hatchery operation will be sold to various part of China for grow-out process, the remaining seeds are laid in culture zone at shallow sea for the future use as large clams for the market and as broodstock (Cappell, 2019). Therefore, it seems likely that a certain portion of hatchery-propagated clams are returned to the hatchery as a broodstock. For the hatchery operation in Putian, wild broodstock is much higher (2,500 t) compared to the amount of cultured stock (40 t). The effective number of broodstock may be abundant enough to maintain genetic integrity of Manila clam produced in the hatchery ponds in Putian (Prof. Yan, pers. Comm. December 2019). Using local broodstock to limit the mixing of genetically divergent populations: There is no mixing of broodstock with non-Putian origin broodstock. Maintaining the scale of hatchery enhancement and the reproductive potential of hatchery seed well below the size and reproductive potential of the wild population: About 40 t of broodstock collected on the tidal flat (intertidal area) are used for hatchery operation annually together with 2,500 t of broodstockcaught in subtidal area in Putian and an additional 1,500 t are sold to the market (Anonymous, 2018 compared to the total of 200,000 t by Cappell, 2019) Unverified information on the total biomass of adult clams in the subtidal area is available (i.e. 33,000 t in Putian) that contribute to the annual reproduction. Some authors reported possible genetic impact on the wild population due to aquaculture activities. Liu et al. (2007) showed the presence of distinct genetic difference between four populations (Bohai sea, Huanghai Sea, East China Sea and South China Sea) and also mentioned that the human cultivation activities will have great influence on the genetic structure of the population in Quingdao. Ren at al. (2006) also noted the existence of little confusion on the genetic distance-similarity in northern population partly because of the extensive breeding. Yan et al. (2011) studied three populations (Putian, Qindo and Dalian) and concluded that Dalian and Putian populations were more closely related to each other than with the Qingdao population. They also noted that heterozygote deficiency (an indication of inbreeding) is common in all three populations. More precisely, Hu et al (2016) metioned that genetic diversity of Putian wild population is the lowest among 10 wild Manila clam populations studied in different locations in China. Yan et al. (2011) also noted that heterozygote deficiency (which is an indication of inbreeding) is common in Putian, Qindao and Dalian Manila clam populations. In conclusion, there are some genetic risk associated with Putian wild clam population with a non-negligible risk of the slow albeit continuous mixture of aquaculture origin clams with wild clams and the possibility of the occurrence of inbreeding supported by genetic studies on Putian wild Manila clam population. SG60 appears to be met but not higher at the current time until further clear indication is made available Genetic effects: Donggang element Manila clam Ruditapes philippinarum are native to China (Yellow Sea and the East China Sea) to Japan (Vargas et al., 2010) and it was reported that some genetic diversity exists (Sekine et al. 2006). Within China, Bi et al. (2012) analysed the genetic diversity and differentiation of Manila clam between two locations (distance between two location is about 65 km) in the same bay and concluded that samples of two geographic populations presented diffused distribution and had no obvious population differentiation. Ge et al. (2008) also concluded that genetic diversity among four populations (Jinzhou, Dalian, Dangdong and Qingdao) was relatively low. Ren et al. (2006) described that genetic diversity of Manila clam in China is high and the difference between southern (Ningbo/Putian) and northern Laizhou/Dalian) is obvious. Li et al (2009) studied genetic similarity of four Manila clam populations from Pingtan Island (Fujian province) to Liaodong Bay (Liaoning province) and described the genetic distance similarity corresponding to their geographic location. A similar conclusion was drawn by Ren et al (2006). Hu et al. (2016) the genetic diversity of 10 wild Ruditapes philippinarum stocks in coastal areas of China. Based on genetic distance and gene tree establishment, 10 stocks of Ruditapes philippinarum are divided into 2 groups: the Rongcheng and Dalian stocks are in one group, and the remaining 8 stocks are in another. The analysis based on the two groups shows that the genetic differentiation between the two groups is highly significant, indicating

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that the genetic structure of the wild stock in Dalian (Donggang) has not changed due to the culture of Putian- origin clams. Yan et al. (2005) reported that Putian clams and Donggang clams belong to different geographical groups and there are significant differences in the form (shell type and color) and other biological aspects, such as the biological zero of gonad development, the effective accumulated temperature of spawning, breeding season (Donggang clams is from early June to the end of July, while that of Fujian clams is from September to November), the amount of eggs laid, the egg diameter, the size of D-shaped larvae, the length of planktonic stage and the metamorphosis specifications, and they live in different areas (intertidal and subtidal zones in Donggang, subtidal zone only in Putian). The Donggang element meets SG80. Level of risk for translocation in terms of genetics: There is a risk assessment conducted on the likelihood of genetic impact (Minutes of Donggang Shellfish Industry Development and Planning Workshop July 23, 2017) between wild Donggang-origin and Putian-origin stocks in Yalu river. The existing references (Yan et al. 2005; Anonymous, 2017) show unlikelihood of the severe and irreversible impact on the genetic structure of wild stocks by hybridization between two stocks because of significant difference in gonadal development cycle, spawning timing and breeding season and characteristics of larval stages (Yan et al. 2005). In addition, Hu et al. (2016) showed a high genetic differentiation between two populations after more than 35 years of translocation practice. In-depth assessment on the likelihood of genetic impact on Putian wild clam population relative to on-going hatchery production would clarify the level of risk in Putian population as theoretical genetic risk is not negligible. References

Anonymous (2017). Minutes of Donggang Shellfish Industry Development and Planning Workshop July 23, 2017 Anonymous (2018). Annual report of Putian Clam Association No. 5. Bi, X., Huang, L., Jing, M., Han, L. & Y. Hao (2012). Analysis on genetic diversity of mitochondria from Venerupis philippinarum in the coasts of Yantai and Weihai. Agriculture Science & Technology, V. 13, pp. 32-35. Cappell, R. (2019) Yalu estuary clam MSC Pre-Assessment (revised). Poseidon Aquatic Resource Management Ltd., 15 April 2019, 100 pp. Hu, G.-W., Yam, X.-W., Zhu, D.-P., H.-T., Nie (2016). Isolation and characterization of fourteen polymorphic microsatellite loci in the Manila clam (Ruditapes philippinarum). Conservation Genetic Resources, V. 6, pp. 251- 253. Li, X., Xu G., Yan, B., Yang J. , Zhao Y., Xu J., & Xu, P. (2009). Biochemical genetic structure and variation in different populations of Ruditapes philippinarum. Marine Science 33 (4): 61-65. MSC (2018a). MSC Fisheries Standard, version 2.01. Marine Stewardship Council, London. 31st august 2018, 289 pp. Sekine, Y., Yamakawa, H., Takazawa, S. Lin, Y. & M. Toda (2006), Geographic variation of the COX1 gene of the short-neck clam Ruditapes philippinarum in coastal regions of Japan and China. Venus 65: 229-240. Vargas, K., Hamasaki, K., Asakura, Y., Nakajima, K., Ikeda, M., Tsuchiya, K. Taniguchi, N. & S. Kitada (2010). Genetic diversity and differentiation in allozymes and shell sculpture of the clams Ruditapes spp. in natural populations of Japan and China. Fish Genetics and Breeding Science, V. 40, pp. 37-46. Yan, X.-W., Zhang, G.-F., Yang, F. & G.-J. Lian (2005). Biological comparisons between Putian population and Dalian population of Manila clams Ruditapes philippinarum. Acta Ecologica Sinica, V. 25, pp. 3329-3334. Yu, Z.F., Yan, XW., Yang, F., Wang., J.H., Zhang, Y.H., Yang, F. & G.F. Zhang (2011). Genetic diversity of different generations of the Dalian population of Manila clam Ruditapes philippinarum through selective breeding. Acta Ecologica Sinica, V. 31, pp. 4199-4206. Draft scoring range and information gap indicator added at Announcement Comment Draft Report

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Draft scoring range 60-75

Information gap indicator In particular, more information will be sought during consultation on the following: • Percentage/amount of the cultivated white seed that is hatched in Putian that is subsequently ongrown to market size in Putian. • Percentage/amount of the broodstock for Putian that is of Putian hatchery-origin as opposed to being of wild-origin. • Any steps or processes undertaken to manage or minimise potential genetic inbreeding of the Putian stock. • Any robust evidence of the absence of inbreeding or genetic impacts associated with either Putian or Donggang stocking practices. • Quantity of translocated and grown up stock versus native stock that is harvested in the Donggang fishery. • Genetic risk assessment of the recently introduced shallow water clam grow out fishery in Pinghai Bay in 2015 on the wild clam stock. • Re-evaluation of the likelihood of genetic impact of hatchery operation on the wild clam population Putian would be of great use for better evaluate this Pl. Overall Performance Indicator scores added from Client and Peer Review Draft Report

Overall Performance Indicator score

Condition number (if relevant)

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PI 1.2.1 – Harvest strategy PI 1.2.1 There is a robust and precautionary harvest strategy in place

Scoring Issue SG 60 SG 80 SG 100

a Harvest strategy design

Guide The harvest strategy is The harvest strategy is The harvest strategy is post expected to achieve responsive to the state of responsive to the state of stock management the stock and the elements the stock and is designed objectives reflected in of the harvest strategy work to achieve stock PI 1.1.1 SG80. together towards achieving management objectives stock management reflected in PI 1.1.1 SG80. objectives reflected in PI 1.1.1 SG80. Met? Yes – Putian element Yes – Putian element No – Putian element N/A – Donggang N/A – Donggang element N/A – Donggang element element Rationale

Harvest strategy: Putian element Basic measures are in place to manage the broodstock harvest including the production of Manila clam seed in Putian such as fishing gear specification and catalogue of Manila clam harvesting technique together with the minimum size at 1.5 cm in shell length (Ministry of Agriculture 2018). In addition, a closure of fishing activities is implemented between May 1 and August 16 for Putian in order to protect clam reproductive potential. Ren et al. (2008) described that the period between April and November is a crucial period for Manila clam for growth and gonadal development and any environmental disturbance by fishing activity would have huge impact on the reproductive potential and population growth. Reducing fishing activity by the currently implemented season closure (at least for fish species) thus partially help the health status of Manila clam population especially during reproductive season. Cappell (2018) recognized (Yalu River Estuary FIP) that the broodstock supply component is less well managed and set an action plan for discussing the development of a harvest strategy for Manila clam broodstock collection in Fujian, but a concrete harvest strategy was not developed in time (Cappell, 2019). Recent standing stock estimate is approximately at 33,000 t (year of survey not known) and Putian clam association set a maximum exploitable amount not exceeding 10,000 t (33% exploitation rate), although the current exploitation level seems to be much lower (i.e. 4,000 t: Anonymous, 2018; 2019). Both the current and maximum exploitation rate are at reasonable level for highly reproductive Manila clam. In conclusion, although the harvest strategy needs to be formalized, the basic elements of the strategy including fishing season closure combined with the biological characteristics (reach at sexual maturity at age 1, rapid growth) and inherent productivity (broad spawner, spawning multiple times within the season) of Manila clam (RBF score at 80 level) as well as the current low level of exploitation (12%) would maintain the fishery in operating at a low risk level. More explicit harvest strategy information is necessary to confirm the 80 score. Harvest strategy: Donggang element For the Donggang element, there is no need for a conventional harvest ‘strategy’ that is intended to achieve sustainable long-term harvest from the stock. Instead, the aim of the Donggang element is to translocate white seed from Putian in to the leased, subtidal areas, allow the stock to grow on to a market size, and then to harvest as much as possible of the stock within the leased areas at harvest. Because there is no need for a conventional harvest strategy, this SI is not scored for the Donggang element.

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b Harvest strategy evaluation

Guide The harvest strategy is The harvest strategy may The performance of the post likely to work based on not have been fully tested harvest strategy has been prior experience or but evidence exists that it is fully evaluated and plausible argument. achieving its objectives. evidence exists to show that it is achieving its objectives including being clearly able to maintain stocks at target levels. Met? Yes Yes – Putian element No – Putian element N/A – Donggang N/A – Donggang element N/A – Donggang element element Rationale

Harvest strategy: Putian element Basic measure are in place to manage the harvest of Manila clam broodstock. Especially implementation of fishing season closure (called moratorium) for 4 months between May and September during which Manila clam rapidly reach its sexual maturity should be efficient for wild clam population. In addition, fishing gear specification with minimum size limit at 1.5 cm and tentative maximum exploitation level not exceeding 10,000 t corresponding to 33% of the current standing stock level as well as the current practice of lower exploitation rate (12%) would ensure the renewal of the stock. However, well-defined HCRs for broodstock and the efficiency of tools used to control harvest levels is limited/uncertain. Additional information, such as historical broodstock abundance and catch data, and control mechanism for catch limit would support an improved score. Harvest strategy: Donggang element For the Donggang element, there is no need for a conventional harvest ‘strategy’ that is intended to achieve sustainable long-term harvest from the stock. As such, this SI is not scored. c Harvest strategy monitoring

Guide Monitoring is in place post that is expected to determine whether the harvest strategy is working. Met? Yes – Putian element N/A – Donggang element Rationale

Harvest strategy monitoring: Putian element Harvest strategy (closure of fishing season) for fisheries across China was implemented and seems to be well monitored by identifying responsible positions at different levels (province, city, association etc…) with imposed penalty in case of breaching of laws and rules. This moratorium period corresponds to clam’s sexual maturation. As such the effectiveness of this seasonal closure for the protection of reproductive potential would be very high. Other strategy such as fishing gear and fishing methods should be in accordance with the catalogue and technical standards. Although maximum exploitation limit is set at 10,000 t corresponding to 33% exploitation rate and minimum size limit set at 1.5 cm in shell length, it is not clear how this limit was delived and monitored.

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However, the harvest strategy monitoring mechanism is not clearly defined or the information is not available at the time of this evaluation. Clarification of the existing harvest strategies and subsequent monitoring system should be done at onsite meeting, which would support an improved score. Harvest strategy monitoring: Donggang element For the Donggang element, there is no need for a conventional harvest ‘strategy’ that is intended to achieve sustainable long-term harvest from the stock (see SIa). As such, this SI is not scored. d Harvest strategy review

Guide The harvest strategy is post periodically reviewed and improved as necessary. Met? No – Putian element N/A – Donggang element Rationale

Harvest strategy review: Putian element There are mechanisms in place to review key parts of the management system both at an individual producer/association level (possibly on an annual basis, but to be verified), and for the fishery overall (Ocean and Fisheries Bureau regular reviews of performance against the development plans). Closure of fishing season for local fishery in Putian (Fujian Province) was implemented and seems to be well monitored by identifying responsible positions at different levels (province, city, association etc…) with imposed penalty in case of bleach of laws and rules (Ministry of Agriculture, 2018). Fishing gear specification and minimum shell length for Manila clam fishery (i.e. 1.5 cm in shell length) are imposed. The maximum limit of clam harvesting is set at 10,000 t by Putian clam association (Anonymous, 2018).However, its review mechanism is still unclear and to be furtherexamined.. Harvest strategy: Donggang element For the Donggang element, there is no need for a conventional harvest ‘strategy’ that is intended to achieve sustainable long-term harvest from the stock (see SIa). As such, this SI is not scored. e Shark finning

Guide It is likely that shark It is highly likely that shark There is a high degree of post finning is not taking finning is not taking place. certainty that shark finning place. is not taking place. Met? N/A – both elements N/A – both elements N/A – both elements

Rationale

Sharks are not a target species so this SI is not scored. f Review of alternative measures

Guide There has been a There is a regular review of There is a biennial review post review of the potential the potential effectiveness of the potential effectiveness and and practicality of effectiveness and practicality of alternative measures to practicality of alternative alternative measures to minimise UoA-related measures to minimise minimise UoA-related mortality of unwanted catch UoA-related mortality of mortality of unwanted of the target stock and they unwanted catch of the catch of the target are implemented as target stock, and they are stock. appropriate. implemented, as appropriate.

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Met? N/A – both elements N/A – both elements N/A – both elements

Rationale

Cappell (2019) noted that catching technology is reviewed to consider harvest efficiency, but there is no unwanted catch as such: selectivity of the gear ensures harvestable sizes are taken. This is assumed to be correct but will need to be confirmed. Recent by-catch information (Anonymous, 2018) revealed that by catch species mainly composed of 5 groups of species (other clams, Brachyurans and Shrimps) does not exceed 2% (by species or group of species) of total catch between 2014 and 2018. References

Anonymous (2018). Annual Report of Putian Clam Association. No. 5. Cappell, R. (2019) Yalu estuary clam MSC Pre-Assessment (revised). Poseidon Aquatic Resource Management Ltd., 15 April 2019, 94 pp. Ministry of Agriculture (2018). Fishery fishing license management regulations http://www.gov.cn/gongbao/content/2019/content_5368590.html Draft scoring range and information gap indicator added at Announcement Comment Draft Report

Draft scoring range 80

Information gap indicator In particular, more information will be sought during consultation on the following: • The overall approach to the harvest strategy, including on the rationale for the temporal and spatial management elements, the licensing approach and any quota restrictions. • Any testing that has been undertaken on the harvest strategy. • Discarding and mortality rates. • Details on the monitoring undertaken to ensure the fishery rules and regulations are being followed. • Size composition of the target species, species and the fate of by-catch species. Overall Performance Indicator scores added from Client and Peer Review Draft Report

Overall Performance Indicator score ≥80

Condition number (if relevant)

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PI 1.2.2 – Harvest control rules and tools PI 1.2.2 There are well defined and effective harvest control rules (HCRs) in place

Scoring Issue SG 60 SG 80 SG 100

a HCRs design and application

Guide Generally understood HCRs Well defined HCRs are in The HCRs are expected to post are in place or available place that ensure that the keep the stock fluctuating that are expected to reduce exploitation rate is reduced at or above a target level the exploitation rate as the as the PRI is approached, consistent with MSY, or point of recruitment are expected to keep the another more appropriate impairment (PRI) is stock fluctuating around a level taking into account approached. target level consistent with the ecological role of the (or above) MSY, or for key stock, most of the time. LTL species a level consistent with ecosystem needs. Met? Yes – Putian element No – Putian element No – Putian element N/A – Donggang element N/A – Donggang element N/A – Donggang element Rationale

HCRs: Putian element For the Putian broodstock fishery, some generally understood basic regulations on specification of fishing gear (based on catalogue and technical standards for clam fishery), minimum size limit at 1.5 cm in shell length as well as fishing season closure are available. Standing biomass estimate and landing information (recent but not specified year and source), recent landing record as well as bi-annual catch rate of Manila clam and bycatch species are available. The current fishing practice (annual catch at 4,000 t) shows the exploitation level well below the tentatively set maximum exploitation amount (10,000 t) set by the Putian clam association. In addition, the current and maximum exploitation rate (12% and 33%, respectively) seem to be reasonable. FIP update on Manila clam describes that measures are in place to manage the production of seed and overall harvest in Putian and the ongrowing in Donggang. However, HCRs for production in Putian are not well- defined and evidence of the efficacy of tools used to control harvest levels is limited. Experts suggested that both local government and breeding households should carry out long-term and effective monitoring of biomass information (Minutes of Donggang Shellfish Industry Development and Planning Workshop July 23, 2017). The Manila clam wild fishery has been maintained for more than 35 years in Putian and it seems that general productivity (landings) has been maintained with high productivity of the stock throughout. As such the team considers that generally understood HCRs are available. HCRs: Donggang element For the Donggang element, there is no need for a conventional harvest control rule and associated tools that limit exploitation as a PRI is approached. The aim of the Donggang element is to translocate white seed from Putian in to the leased, subtidal areas, allow the stock to grow on to a market size, and then to harvest as much as possible of the stock within the leased areas at harvest. Because there is no need for a harvest control rule or tools, this SI is not scored for the Donggang element. b HCRs robustness to uncertainty

Guide The HCRs are likely to be The HCRs take account of post robust to the main a wide range of uncertainties. uncertainties including the ecological role of the

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stock, and there is evidence that the HCRs are robust to the main uncertainties. Met? Yes No N/A – Donggang element N/A – Donggang element Rationale

HCRs: Putian element There are two components for HCRs, one is fishing certification (vessels, fishing gear, fishing vessel certification) and the other is quantitative and qualitative stock harvest control rules (fishing season, catch limit, quota, minimum size). The former seems to be controlled under tight rules, but the latterneeds some further clarifications. Recent record of bi-annual catch rate of Manila clam and by-catch species, general landings information, and recent biomass estimate, and fishing-induced mortality rate are obtained for the local fishery. The maximum landings set by Putian clam association (10,000 t), the recent landings (4,000 t) together with recent standing stock estimate (33,000 t) suggest that the Manila clam wild stock in Putian is in acceptable condition (estimated exploitation at 12%). The current fishery is exploiting at less than half of the maximum exploitation limit set by the association. As such the HCRs are likely to be robust to the main uncertainties. HCRs: Donggang element For the Donggang element, there is no need for a conventional harvest control rule and associated tools that limit exploitation as a PRI is approached (see SIa). As such, this SI is not scored. c HCRs evaluation

Guide There is some evidence that Available evidence indicates Evidence clearly shows post tools used or available to that the tools in use are that the tools in use are implement HCRs are appropriate and effective in effective in achieving the appropriate and effective in achieving the exploitation exploitation levels controlling exploitation. levels required under the required under the HCRs. HCRs. Met? Yes Yes – Putian element No – Putian element N/A – Donggang element N/A – Donggang element N/A – Donggang element Rationale

HCRs: Putian element Information was obtained such as the historic record of catch rate and current landings recent biomass estimate. Cappell (2019) described that total landings of local clam fishery be around 200,000 t in 2017, but the team obtained the recent catch information at 4,000 t with annual standing stock at 33,000 t (Anonymous, 2018, 2019). No indication of historic stock/landings trend is available other than the continuation of local fishery for more than 35 years in Putian without having any cautious note from the scientific community. The current fishing practice seems to be reasonably low (exploitation rate at 12% i.e. annual exploitation at 4,000 t with possible standing stock amount at 33,000 t). Tentatively set maximum catch limit at 10,000 t annually seems to be sound (corresponding exploitation rate at 33%) but no supporting analytical test or background information for setting the maximum exploitation level is available at the moment of the preparation of ACDR. HCRs: Donggang element For the Donggang element, there is no need for a conventional harvest control rule and associated tools that limit exploitation as a PRI is approached (see SIa). As such, this SI is not scored. References

Fisheyprogress.org, China manila clam-dredge.: https://fisheryprogress.org/node/7916/actions-progress#).

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Draft scoring range and information gap indicator added at Announcement Comment Draft Report

Draft scoring range 60-75

Information gap indicator In particular, more information will be sought during consultation on the following: • The approach taken to constraining exploitation as the PRI is approached. • Any indicators or reference points adopted to determine the PRI • Evidence of clearly determined HCRs and its effective in controlling exploitation. Overall Performance Indicator scores added from Client and Peer Review Draft Report

Overall Performance Indicator score

Condition number (if relevant)

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PI 1.2.3 – Information and monitoring PI 1.2.3 Relevant information is collected to support the harvest strategy

Scoring Issue SG 60 SG 80 SG 100

a Range of information

Guide Some relevant information Sufficient relevant A comprehensive range of post related to stock structure, information related to information (on stock stock productivity and fleet stock structure, stock structure, stock composition is available to productivity, fleet productivity, fleet support the harvest composition and other data composition, stock strategy. are available to support the abundance, UoA removals harvest strategy. and other information such as environmental information), including some that may not be directly related to the current harvest strategy, is available. Met? Yes – Putian element No – Putian element No – Putian element Yes – Donggang element Yes – Donggang element No – Donggang element Rationale

Information: Putian element At the Donggang Shellfish Industry Development and Planning Workshop held on July 23, 2017, several responsible specialist presented the overview of the geographical location, natural condition, and the fishery economy in Putian, Fujian with a highlight of the production of shellfish and breeding in Putian City with the information on the distribution of shellfish resources and breeds in Fujian and Putian including the status of sediment structure in breeding areas in Putian. The harvest rules, harvest strategy as well as hatchery operation standard are available: the local standard DB / T-2000 "Clams Comprehensive Standard" in Fujian Province, including the following detailed information; DB / T-2000 "Ruditapes Philippinarum", DB / T-2000 "Seed Collection And Cultivation Technical Specifications", DB / T-2000 "Seed quality standards", DB / T-2000 "to develop technical specifications ", and DB / T-2000" fresh clam quality ". However, translated version of these documents were not available at the moment of the evaluation. And if made available, it would support an improved score. In order to understand the biological resources status and biodiversity in the breeding area and the cultivation area of Manila clams and the type of substrate in the breeding and cultivation areas, the Implementation Plan of Habitat Mapping and Stock Assessment of Manila clam in Putian was prepared and executed under the frame work of Fishery Improvement Plan (Cappell, 2019). For local fishing for large clam from which the broodstock are selected, essential information is lacking such as historical annual total landings, fishing effort (number of boats fishing Manila clam, number of hand workers), historic adult clam abundance/density, and size composition/mean size of the catch. Information: Donggang element For the Donggang element, there is no need for a conventional harvest ‘strategy’ that is intended to achieve sustainable long-term harvest from the stock. Instead, the aim of the Donggang element is to translocate white seed from Putian in to the leased, subtidal areas, allow the stock to grow on to a market size, and then to harvest as much as possible of the stock within the leased areas at harvest. Because there is no need for a conventional harvest strategy, minimal information is needed to support the strategy, including the location and extent of the leased, subtidal beds, vessels eligible to fish in the UoA, and sources and quantities of stocked white seed, and production levels (which are available).

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b Monitoring

Guide Stock abundance and UoA Stock abundance and UoA All information required by post removals are monitored removals are regularly the harvest control rule is and at least one indicator is monitored at a level of monitored with high available and monitored accuracy and coverage frequency and a high with sufficient frequency to consistent with the harvest degree of certainty, and support the harvest control control rule, and one or there is a good rule. more indicators are understanding of inherent available and monitored uncertainties in the with sufficient frequency to information [data] and the support the harvest control robustness of assessment rule. and management to this uncertainty. Met? Yes – Putian element No – Putian element No – Putian element N/A – Donggang element N/A – Donggang element N/A – Donggang element Rationale

Information: Putian element Historic trend in wild stock abundance or some other measures of stock status is not available at the time of evaluation. Unverified recent standing stock abundance is available (33,000 t) with total landings (4,000 t) and geographic fishing area map without any further specification. Some bi-annual catch rate with by-catch species are also provided (for 2014, 16 and 18). Fishing season closure as a harvest control rule seems to be well monitored and enforced. The information such as stock structure, historic stock abundance, fleet composition, historic landings andfishery performance as well as its monitoring procedureswould support an improved score. a higher score. Information: Donggang element For the Donggang element, there is no need for a conventional harvest control rule and associated tools that limit exploitation as a PRI is approached (see PI 1.2.2). As such, this SI is not scored. c Comprehensiveness of information

Guide There is good information post on all other fishery removals from the stock. Met? N/A– Putian element N/A – Donggang element Rationale

Information: Putian element During the ‘Donggang Shellfish Industry Development and Planning Workshop July 23, 2017’, all experts have defined the contents of biomass monitoring aspects to include seawater primary production capacity, biomass, farmed biomass volume, variety and amount of other species and their relationship and impacts to manila clam. Experts suggested that both local government and breeding households should carry out long- term and effective monitoring of biomass information. The Implementation Plan of Habitat Mapping and Stock Assessment of Manila clam in Putian was conducted (WWF, 2018) to intended to increase the knowledge of density of clams and related benthic invertebrates as well as the bottom substrates in the region., Recently obtained information (Taihong, pers. comm, December 2019; Anonymous 2018) indicates that there is no other fishery than eel net fishery in subtidal zone in Putian (Taihong, pers. comm, December 2019) and

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this fishery does not catch any size of Manila clam and the Manila clam fishery does not involve substantial amount of by-catch (less than 2% in total weight of species and group of species). As such this SI is not scored. Information: Donggang element For the Donggang element, there is no other fishery removals from the stock – the leased areas are privately held and no other exploitation occurs. As such, this SI is not scored. References

Anonymous (2018). Putian clam association annual report No. 5. Cappell, R. (2019) Yalu estuary clam MSC Pre-Assessment (revised). Poseidon Aquatic Resource Management Ltd., 15 April 2019, 94pp. WWF (2018) The Implementation Plan of Habitat Mapping and Stock Assessment of Manila clam in Putian. Draft scoring range and information gap indicator added at Announcement Comment Draft Report

Draft scoring range 60-75

Information gap indicator In particular, more information will be sought during consultation on the following for the local Manila clam fishery and hatchery operation: • On the local fishery in Putian, the basic harvesting parameters such as number of boat and boat specification (length and gross tonnage) fishing Manila clam and number of crew by boat, total landings (monthly), landings by boat. • Further information of eel fishery (catch, by-catch, fishing zone) conducted in subtidal zone in Putian. • Stock status in recent years (annual abundance of adult clams, abundance of clams by age, natural mortality and fishing mortality) for recent several years. • And the clear description of existing monitoring procedure and frequency, as well as the evaluation of efficiency of implemented rules. Overall Performance Indicator scores added from Client and Peer Review Draft Report

Overall Performance Indicator score 60-75

Condition number (if relevant)

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PI 1.2.4 – Assessment of stock status PI 1.2.4 There is an adequate assessment of the stock status

Scoring Issue SG 60 SG 80 SG 100

a Appropriateness of assessment to stock under consideration

Guide The assessment is The assessment takes into post appropriate for the stock account the major features and for the harvest control relevant to the biology of rule. the species and the nature of the UoA. Met? RBF – default 80 (Putian) N/A (Donggang) Rationale

As the RBF approach will be used for scoring Pl 1.1.1 (stock status), Pl1.2.4 is a default 80 as it is recognized that stock assessment is lacking. b Assessment approach

Guide The assessment estimates The assessment estimates post stock status relative to stock status relative to generic reference points reference points that are appropriate to the species appropriate to the stock category. and can be estimated. Met? RBF – default 80 (Putian) N/A (Donggang) Rationale

As the RBF approach will be used for scoring Pl 1.1.1 (stock status), Pl1.2.4 is a default 80 as it is recognized that stock assessment is lacking. c Uncertainty in the assessment

Guide The assessment identifies The assessment takes The assessment takes into post major sources of uncertainty into account. account uncertainty and is uncertainty. evaluating stock status relative to reference points in a probabilistic way. Met? RBF – default 80 (Putian) N/A (Donggang) Rationale

As the RBF approach will be used for scoring Pl 1.1.1 (stock status), Pl1.2.4 is a default 80 as it is recognized that stock assessment is lacking. d Evaluation of assessment

Guide The assessment has been post tested and shown to be robust. Alternative hypotheses and assessment approaches have been rigorously explored.

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Met? RBF – default 80 (Putian) N/A (Donggang) Rationale

As the RBF approach will be used for scoring Pl 1.1.1 (stock status), Pl1.2.4 is a default 80 as it is recognized that stock assessment is lacking. e Peer review of assessment

Guide The assessment of stock The assessment has been post status is subject to peer internally and externally review. peer reviewed. Met? RBF – default 80 (Putian) N/A (Donggang) Rationale

As the RBF approach will be used for scoring Pl 1.1.1 (stock status), Pl1.2.4 is a default 80 as it is recognized that stock assessment is lacking. References

N/A

Draft scoring range and information gap indicator added at Announcement Comment Draft Report

Draft scoring range RBF – default 80

Information gap indicator None

Overall Performance Indicator scores added from Client and Peer Review Draft Report

Overall Performance Indicator score

Condition number (if relevant)

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PI 1.2.5 – Genetics management PI 1.2.5 There is a strategy in place for managing the hatchery enhancement activity such that it does not pose a risk of serious or irreversible harm to the genetic diversity of the wild population Scoring Issue SG 60 SG 80 SG 100

a Genetic management strategy in place

Guide There are measures in place, There is a partial strategy in There is a strategy in place to post if necessary, which are place, if necessary, which is maintain the genetic expected to maintain the expected to maintain the structure of the population genetic structure of the genetic structure of the at levels compatible with the population at levels population at levels SG80 Genetic outcome level compatible with the SG80 compatible with the SG80 of performance (PI 1.1.3). Genetic outcome level of Genetic outcome level of performance (PI 1.1.3). performance (PI 1.1.3). Met? Yes– Putian element No – Putian element No – Putian element Yes – Donggang element Yes – Donggang element No – Donggang element Rationale

Genetic management: Putian element There is a series of peer reviewed papers on scientific knowledge on genetic structure, diversity with morphological and physiological characteristics of different Manila clam population including Donggang and Putian. However, no evaluation of published genetic information on Putian wild clam population was available to assess the genetic impact (especially possibility of inbreeding as well as the effect of phenotypic selection of broodstock) on wild clam population in Putian relative to hatchery operation. The Local Putian (wild clam) fishery provides broodstock to various (not specific) clam farmers. Clam farmers buy broodstock as a supplemental broodstock for their hatchery operation. However, the total amount of clams selected from local clam fishery for hatchery operation is negligible (40 t). Depending on the amount of hatchery origin broodstock is large enough compared to the wild origin broodstock, it would not efficient enough to ensure the rotation of broodstock to ensure the genetic state of the wild population. Hu et al. (2016) and Yan et al. (2011) showed the genetic diversity of Putian wild Manila clam population. Although the genetic diversity in Putian population was determined very low, no further special note was provided by researchers on genetic state of Putian population in relation to the hatchery operation. In summary, a further review/interpretation of ‘low genetic diversity’ in Putian wild population and of management approaches /options is necessary to ensure the maintenance of the genetic structure of the population. SG60 is met based on the high use of ‘wild’ broodstock compared to the 40t that are pond-origin broodstock, which is considered a measure. However, it cannot be said that this forms a partial strategy. SG80 is not met. Genetic management: Donggang element The stock from Putian and the local Donggang stock are morphologically different and spawn at different times, while the Putian stock occurs subtidally whereas the local Donggang stock is an intertidal stock. As such, the translocated stock poses no risk to the genetic structure of the local Donggang population. A management strategy is therefore not necessary. SG80 is met by default. b Genetic management strategy evaluation

Guide The measures are There is some objective basis The strategy is based on in- post considered likely to work for confidence that the depth knowledge of the based on plausible argument partial strategy will work genetic structure of the (e.g. general experience, based on information population, and testing

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theory, or comparison with directly relevant to the supports high confidence similar fisheries/species). population(s) involved. that the strategy will work. Met? Yes – Putian element No – Putian element No – Putian element Yes – Donggang element Yes – Donggang element No – Donggang element Rationale

Genetic management: Putian element The information on the quantity of hatchery origin broodstock and wild origin adult clams in the catch was received as 40 t and 2,500 t, respectively (Anonymous, 2018). Hatchery operation, theoretically, does not harm genetic integiruty of Manila clam (Prof. Yan, person. Comm.). However, a portion of hatchery grown clams are returned to the wild and coinhabit with the wild clam. As such, the ‘genetic wildness’ of clams inhabiting in subtidal zones in Putian has to be examined to establish a sound genetic management or to determine whether genetic partial strategy is necessary. Currently, the ‘wildness’ of the wild, subtidal stock should be established, but the use of 2,500 t of subtidal stock is a measure that should work based on plausible argument. SG60 is met, but further information will be sought to confirm this or a higher score. Genetic management: Donggang element As a genetic partial strategy is not considered necessary to manage genetic impacts of translocating white seed from Putian to Donggang, SG80 is met here by default. c Genetic management strategy implementation

Guide There is some evidence that There is clear evidence that post the partial strategy is being the strategy is being implemented successfully, if implemented successfully. necessary. There is some evidence that the strategy is achieving its overall objective. Met? Yes – Putian element No – Putian element Yes – Donggang element Yes – Donggang element Rationale

Genetic management: Putian element The quantity of hatchery origin and wild origin adult clams in the catch from the fishery for large clams from which the broodstock originate are unknown (combined total landings are at 200,000 t level in 2017). As there is not considered to be genetic measures or a partial strategy in place, SG8 is not met. Genetic management: Donggang element At the Donggang Shellfish Industry Development and Planning Workshop, July 23, 2017, all participating experts agreed that there is no genetic risk with growing of seed from Fujian in Donggang (Anonymous, 2017). As such a partial strategy is not necessary (SG80 by default).

References

Anonymous (2017). Minutes of Donggang Shellfish Industry Development and Planning Workshop July 23, 2017 Anonymous (2018). Annual report of Putian clam association. No. 5. Cappell, R. (2019) Yalu estuary clam MSC Pre-Assessment (revised). Poseidon Aquatic Resource Management Ltd., 15 April 2019, 100 pp. Hu, G.-W., Yam, X.-W., Zhu, D.-P., H.-T., Nie (2016). Isolation and characterization of fourteen polymorphic microsatellite loci in the Manila clam (Ruditapes philippinarum). Conservation Genetic Resources, V. 6, pp. 251- 253.

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Yan, X.-W., Zhang, G.-F., Yang, F. & G.-J. Lian (2005). Biological comparisons between Putian population and Dalian population of Manila clams Ruditapes philippinarum. Acta Ecologica Sinica, V. 25, pp. 3329-3334. Draft scoring range and information gap indicator added at Announcement Comment Draft Report

Draft scoring range 60-75

Information gap indicator In particular, more information will be sought during consultation on the following: • The approach taken to manage potential genetic impacts in the Putian local fishery and culture system. • Management approach to Recently started shallow water grow up culture of white seeds Overall Performance Indicator scores added from Client and Peer Review Draft Report

Overall Performance Indicator score

Condition number (if relevant)

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PI 1.2.6 – Genetics information PI 1.2.6 Information on the genetic structure of the population is adequate to determine the risk posed by the enhancement activity and the effectiveness of the management of genetic diversity Scoring Issue SG 60 SG 80 SG 100

a Information quality

Guide Qualitative or inferential Qualitative or inferential The genetic structure of the post information is available on information and some population is understood in the genetic structure of the quantitative information detail. population are available on the genetic structure of the population. Information is sufficient to Information is adequate to estimate the impact of broadly understand the Information is sufficient to hatchery enhancement likely impact of hatchery estimate the likely impact with a high degree of enhancement. of hatchery enhancement. certainty. Met? Yes – Putian element No – Putian element No – Putian element Yes – Donggang element Yes – Donggang element No – Donggang element Rationale

There are two components for possible genetic impact on the wild Manila clam populations, one is related to maintaining genetic structure of the local population in Putian, and the other is related to juvenile translocation from Putian to Donggang. Genetic information: Putian element Some literature are available on the genetic diversity of local population. Yu et al. (2011) dealt with genetic diversity of Manila clams through four consecutive generations in Dalian population. Ren et al. (2006), Liu (2007) and Yan et al. (2011) reported the existence of inbreeding in different Manila clam populations. Based on the process of seed production in Putian, it is highly possible that wild and hatchery-origin populations are co-existent in the sea despite that the proportion of these two broodstock populations is unknown. Yan et al. (2011) and Hu et al. (2016) reported a low genetic diversity of the wild Manila clam population in Putian. However, the possible reasons of this finding were not further discussed. Anonymous (2017). Minutes of Donggang Shellfish Industry Development and Planning Workshop. July 23, 2017 did not deal with inbreeding problem in Putian population. Further information should be made available regarding the possible genetic effect of hatchery operation on the wild population. Although, necessary qualitative and quantitative information is available on the genetic structure of the population in Putian to estimate the likely impact of hatchery enhancement,, further interpretation/clarification by client is necessary. Genetic information: Donggang element For the latter subject, available references mainly dealt with comparison of genetic characteristics amongst different geographic locations including a comparison between southern provinces (seed providers) and northern provinces (seed receivers) which suggest genetic impacts of seed translocation is unlikely. Specifically, Yan (2005) reported that, under natural conditions, there is no risk of hybridization between clam in the East Harbour farmed Ruditapes japonica and local Ruditapes. The first reason is the two breed areas are different, the East Harbour clams live on tidal flat beach, the Fujian clams live in subduction zone waters; Second, the breeding period is different, the breeding of clams in Donggang is from early June to the end of July, Fujian clams breeding period is from September to November, there is no overlap between the two breeds. Breeding habits of Fujian clams in Donggang did not change. b Information adequacy for genetic management strategy

Guide Information is adequate to Information is adequate to Information is adequate to post support measures to support a partial strategy to support a comprehensive manage main genetic manage the main genetic strategy to manage the

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impacts of the impacts of the genetic impacts of the enhancement activity on enhancement activity on enhancement activity on the stock, if necessary. the stock, if necessary. the stock and evaluate with a high degree of certainty whether the strategy is achieving its objective. Met? Yes – Putian element No – Putian element No – Putian element Yes – Donggang element Yes – Donggang element Yes – Donggang element Rationale

Genetic information: Putian element Based on the Putian hatchery operation process (Cappell, 2019), there is a high risk of mixing between wild origin clam and hatchery origin calms. Hatchery origin sand seeds are laid for production of white seeds for transplantation to other grow up location such as Donggang, but some amount of white seeds are left for on site grow up operation to produce broodstock for the subsequent years. As such clams from both origins have a high risk of interbreeding, which results in a inbreeding depending on the quantity of hatchery origin broodstock and timing of harvest vis-à-vis their sexual maturity and breeding. However, the predominant use of ‘wild’ broodstock (2,500t) compared to the 40t that are pond-origin broodstock, information which is considered sufficient to meet SG60. Some indications of low genetic diversity in Putian wild Manila clam population was noted by Hu et al. (2016) and Yan et al. (2011) In-depth analysis of genetic characteristics of Putian wild Manila clam population is lacking to evaluate genetic impact on the Putian population due to possible inbreeding. A genetic and translocation risk assessment (Anonymous, 2017) did not deal with Putian population. Although, necessary information is available, further interpretation/clarification is necessary. This will be followed up on at the onsite in addition to more information on the use of wild to hatchery-origin broodstock. Genetic information: Donggang element Sufficient information is available to support measures to manage main genetic impacts of the enhancement activity on the stock (translocation from Putian to Donggang), if necessary. A genetic and translocation risk assessment was conducted (Anonymous, 2017) referencing several peer reviewed paper, which concluded that translocation from Putian to Donggang does not pose any threatening genetic effects. References

Anonymous (2017). Minutes of Donggang Shellfish Industry Development and Planning Workshop July 23, 2017 Cappell, R. (2019) Yalu estuary clam MSC Pre-Assessment (revised). Poseidon Aquatic Resource Management Ltd., 15 April 2019, 94 pp. Hu, G.-W., Yam, X.-W., Zhu, D.-P., H.-T., Nie (2016). Isolation and characterization of fourteen polymorphic microsatellite loci in the Manila clam (Ruditapes philippinarum). Conservation Genetic Resources, V. 6, pp. 251-253. Ren, Y., Gao, T. & T. Yang (2006). Isozyme analysis on the populations of Ruditapes philippinarum. Journal of Ocean University of China, V. 5, pp. 58-62. Yan, X., Yu, Z., Qin, Y., Yang, F., Wang J., Zhang, Y., Yang, F. and G. Zhang (2011). Development of EST-SSRs markers and analysis of genetic diversities among different geographical populations of Manila clam Ruditapes philippinarum. Acta Ecologica Sinica, V. 31, pp. 4090-4098 Yan, X.-W., Zhang, G.-F., Yang, F. & G.-J. Lian (2005). Biological comparisons between Putian population and Dalian population of Manila clams Ruditapes philippinarum. Acta Ecologica Sinica, V. 25, pp. 3329-3334.

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Draft scoring range 60-75

Information gap indicator In particular, more information will be sought during consultation on the following: • The information available to understand potential genetic impacts in the Putian local fishery and culture system • Especially, further interpretation / confirmation regarding the possible reasons for ‘Yan et al. 2005 and Hu et al. 2016’s findings of low genetic diversity in Putian wild Manila clam population (any relationship with hatchery operation). Overall Performance Indicator scores added from Client and Peer Review Draft Report

Overall Performance Indicator score

Condition number (if relevant)

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8.4 Principle 2

8.4.1 Principle 2 background All species that are affected by the fishery and that are not part of the Unit of Certification are considered under Principle 2. This section contains an evaluation of the total impact of the fishery on all components in P2 and includes both observed and unobserved fishing mortality. Unobserved mortality may occur from injuries sustained as a result of coming in contact with fishing gear, ghost fishing, waste, or biota that are stressed and die as a result of attempting to avoid being caught by fishing gear. This section also considers impacts on marine habitats and the ecosystem more broadly.

The analysis for P2 is made considering that the UoA and the UoC (to be determined) are the same and composed by the Putian and Donggang elements of the Yalu Estuary Manila Clam Fishery.

It is noted that the majority of the text in this section has been adapted from the Yalu Estuary Clam MSC Pre-assessment report (Cappell 2019), with additional information provided by the client; this section will be updated if and when new information comes available through the client consultation and public consultation stages, and as a result of the site visit.

8.4.1.1 Overview: Putian element

Figure 8. Map of the seed production area, Fujian Region

Putian lies at the southern edge of the East China Sea, in Fujian Province. Limited information was provided to the assessment team on the geology and ecology of the region, but the coastline is made up of many large embayment’s, with some influence from cool water currents from the north as well as warm water currents from the south. The bays are generally sedimentary, with some areas of gravel and exposed rock substrate in channels or towards the mouths of the bays where the tidal current velocities are higher (e.g. Taihong undated b, Taihong undated d).

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In order, Pinghai Bay is smallest, Meizhou Bay is larger and Xinghau Bay is largest of the three bays adjacent to Putian that include enhanced Manila clam fisheries considered within this assessment report. Depths in this area are generally fairly shallow (Figure 8).

Fujian Province is located on the mainland coast of China, at the southernmost extent of the East China Sea. The area has a subtropical climate, with mild winters. In January, the coastal regions average around 7–10 °C, while summer temperatures peak at around 35 °C in July, and the province is threatened by typhoons coming in from the Pacific. Average annual precipitation is 1,400 - 2,000 millimetres (www.weatherspark.com).

WWF (2018b) noted for Pinghai Bay that “The investigation found that the sediments of the wild areas and the culture areas were mainly silt-fine sand-medium sand with a small amount of clay”. Taihong (undated 2019b) stated that the sediments of Meizhou Bay can be categorized into 11 types, with the majority of the bay being made up of clay silt (Widely exist in the intertidal zones and at the seabed, covering 70% of the whole area), sand-silt-clay (One of the major type of sediment in this area. Exist in belt-like areas at the eastern channel, part of the near-show shallow sea and intertidal zone), and sand (Mostly exist at seabed and underwater shallow beaches. Also found at high and mid tidal areas of part of the intertidal zones).Taihong (undated d) noted that the bottom sediment at Xinghau Bay has two layers, with the upper layer being silt, usually 5m thick, mixed with fine sand. It has horizontal bedding, leaning to the bay mouth. At the lower level is a mixture of muddy silt and muddy sand. It also has horizontal bedding leaning to bay mouth. The sediment at the bay mouth is rather large-grained. The shallow water and large tidal flat area of Xinghau Bay covers an area of 250 km2 (Taihong undated d)

Environmental impacts associated with the Putian element of the UoA includes those that may occur as a result of i) the local fishery from which the broodstock are selected, ii) the pond culture system from which the sand seed are produced, and iii) the ongrowing system from which the white seed are produced (see Figure 1). Consideration needs to be given to each of these parts of the Putian element in undertaking the assessment.

Table 10. Catch data for mechanical dredge survey sampling undertaken in 2014, 2016 and 2018 in Putian (fishing time is 5-6 hours). (Source: Taihong, pers. comm., December 2019). 2014 2016 2018 Sample 1 Sample 2 Sample 1 Sample 2 Sample 1 Sample 2 2,300 kg 1,800 kg 2,700 kg 2,100 kg 2,500 kg 1,600 kg Manila clam (98.9%) (98.9%) (98.4%) (98.2%) (98.8%) (98.4%) 13 kg 10 kg 23 kg 19 kg 15 kg 13.5 kg Dosinia sp. clam (0.6%) (0.5%) (0.8%) (0.9%) (0.6%) (0.8%) 7 kg 5 kg 12 kg 10 kg 8 kg 6.9 kg Cyclina sp. clam (0.3%) (0.3%) (0.4%) (0.5%) (0.3%) (0.4%) 3.0 kg 4.1 kg 5.6 kg 4.8 kg 3.4 kg 2.8 kg Brachyuran (Crab spp.) (0.1%) (0.2%) (0.2%) (0.2%) (0.1%) (0.2%) 2.0 kg 1.3 kg 4.1 kg 3.7 kg 3.1 kg 2.6 kg Shrimps (0.1%) (0.1%) (0.1%) (0.2%) (0.1%) (0.2%) 0.0 kg 0.0 kg 0.0 kg 0.0 kg 0.0 kg 0.0 kg Fishes (0.0%) (0.0%) (0.0%) (0.0%) (0.0%) (0.0%) 2,325.0 kg 1820.4 kg 2744.7 kg 2137.5 kg 2529.5 kg 1625.8 kg Total (100.0%) (100.0%) (100.0%) (100.0%) (100.0%) (100.0%)

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The Assessment Team was provided with some information on catches in the fishery for large Manila clam that occurs in Putian and from which the broodstock are selected, including the fishing areas (Figure 3) and some sample catch information for three recent years (Table 10), but there was no information on the proportion of clams taken by hand working as compared with a mechanical (vessel) dredge, and only anecdotal information (a maximum of 10,000 t) on the total catch (and therefore an understanding of the risk posed) by the subtidal broodstock fishery. This limited information will need to be supplemented at the site visit in consultation with the client and any stakeholders.

8.4.1.2 Overview: Donggang element

Donggang lies in the north-east corner of the Yellow Sea. The mean temperature in July is 24°C and the average temperatures in January is -8° C. The average sea surface temperatures also drop in winter, falling between -2°C and 0°C in January and February. Because of this cooling, the surfaces of Liaodong Bay, Bohai Bay, northern Korea Bay and the areas around the Yalu River Estuary will freeze for a couple of months every year. As spring comes closer and the temperature rises, the ice breaks up and begins to drift.

The geomorphology is heavily influenced by the outflow the Yalu and Dayang rivers that supply the sediment that form intertidal flats to the west of the river’s outlet. The sea area near the City of Dandong is located at the northernmost of coastline of the Yellow Sea, with Yalu River to its east and the Yellow Sea to its south. The city has a 125 km-long coastline, 3500 km² of sea area, 242 km² of intertidal zone mud flat, 3,500 km² of sea area within 20m isobath. The intertidal zone extends along east-west land direction in a zonal arrangement with an average width of 5 km and an average gradient of 1.3‰. The tide here is regular semi-diurnal tide, having twice rising and falling tides each day at a mean range of 4 m. The land reclamation and coastal engineering emerging during 1960s- 1990s took up most of high and middle tidal zones (only a small amount of high and middle tidal zones are left at the Yalu River Estuary and the Dayang River Estuary), with mud flat area diminishing by half from that in 1950s (342 km²). The middle tidal zone in some areas is even less than 300 m wide. The sub-tidal portion of the bay shelves out gradually to 15 m water depth some 20 km from shore. The bottom habitat is sandy gravel with extensive shell debris (Figure 9).

Figure 9. Schematic of the assessment area off the Yalu Estuary, China.

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Environmental impacts assessed under Principle 2 and associated with the Donggang element of the UoA includes those that may occur as a result of i) the fishing activity that occurs within the leased, subtidal ongrowing areas, and ii) as a result of translocation of white seed from Fujian province. Consideration is given to each of these parts of the Donggang element in undertaking the assessment.

Some bycatch information was provided to the Assessment Team, as reported by Cappell (2019). It was reported that a trip was taken aboard a vessel in Donggang to observe the fishing activity, with “mainly small amounts of mantis shrimp, mud snail, moonshell, octopus and flounder observed mixed in with many empty shells of these gastropods and the Manila clam as the target species”. By-catch species are also noted on the fishing logbook, and are recorded as being composed of just seven species (i.e., Table 11). None of these by-catch species exceeded 0.1% of total catch.

• Neverita didyma (Moon Snail), • Rapana venosa (Asian rapa whelk), • Dosinia japonica (Bivalve), • Scapharca broughtonit (Blood clam), • Solen grandis (Grand rasor shell), • Oratosquilla oratoria (Mantis Shrimp), • Temnopleurus hardwickii (Hardwick's sea urchin

Table 11. Bycatch species as recorded in logbooks for the Donggang fishery N. R. D. S. S. O. T. Manila Clam didyma venosa japonica broughtonit grandis oratoria hardwickii Quantity Year % % % % % % % % (t) 2015 14,106 99.88 0.10 0.01 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 2016 15,133 99.88 0.10 0.01 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 2017 14,100 99.88 0.10 0.01 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 2018 6,995 99.80 0.09 0.09 0.01 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 2019 6,240 99.88 0.10 0.01 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

8.4.1.3 Primary, Secondary and ETP Species

For the purposes of a MSC evaluation, primary species are those in the catch, and within the scope of the MSC program (fishes or shellfish), with management tools controlling exploitation as well as known reference points in place, but which are not defined as a target species for the purpose of the assessment. Primary species will usually be species of commercial value to either the UoA or fisheries outside the UoA.

Secondary species include fish and shellfish species that are not managed according to reference points. Secondary species are also considered to be all species that are out of the scope of the MSC standard (i.e., birds/ mammals/ reptiles/ amphibians) and that are not ETP species.

ETP species are defined by the MSC (MSC 2018a) as species that are:

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i) Recognised by national ETP legislation, ii) Listed on Appendix I of CITES (unless it can be shown that the particular stock of the CITES listed species impacted by the UoA under assessment is not endangered), iii) Listed in any binding agreements concluded under the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS), or iv) Classified as ‘out-of scope’ (amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals) that are listed in the IUCN Redlist as vulnerable (VU), endangered (EN) or critically endangered (CE).

Assessment

The Principle 2 primary and secondary species assessment of the Putian and Donggang elements of the fishery are based on the information as presented in Table 10 (Putian element) and Table 11 (Donggang element). This information is not comprehensive, but the data indicate that there are no primary species and no main secondary species caught in either fishery element. Minor secondary species are taken in both fishery elements, but only in very small quantities.

No ETP species were observed in the catch, or are recorded in logbooks to the knowledge of the Assessment Team, but Cappell (2019) undertook a review of the potential for interaction with species listed by the Law of the People's Republic of China on the Protection of Wildlife (Table 12). The Law gives detailed requirements on the protection of ETP species, which are divided into two tiers of protection: tier 1 requires no capture or exploitation of the species and is supported by the creation of protected areas; tier 2 species cannot be caught, or if caught should be released unharmed. It is noted that, where present, the type of gears known to be used in on-growing and the hatchery operations (hand-gathering and some collection by mechanical dredge) are expected to have no direct interaction with these species.

Table 12. ETP species recognised by the Law of the People's Republic of China on the Protection of Wildlife, and their potentiall to interact with the fishery (analysis by Cappell 2019).

Common name Latin name Presence Fishery Interaction Tier 1 species: No take & protected areas required. 1. Giant clam Tridacna gigas/cookiana Yes, Fujian No interaction 2. Corals Corallium spp Yes, Fujian No interaction 3. Nautilus Nautilus No 4. Soft shell turtle Pelochelys cantorii Yes, Fujian No interaction 5. Chinese Sturgeon Acipenser sinensis No 6. Yangtze Sturgeon Acipenser dabryanus Dumeril No 7. Chinese white dolphin Sousa chinensis chinensis Yes No interaction 8. Yangtze river dolphin Lipotes vexilifer No 9. Dugong Dugong dugong No Tier 2 species: No catching Risso’s dolphin Grampus griseus Yes No interaction Pacific white-sided dolphin Lagenorhynchus obliquidens Yes No interaction Common dolphin Delphinus delphis Yes No interaction Indo-pacific bottle-nosed dolphin Tursiops aduncus Yes No interaction Leatherback turtle Dermochelys coriacea Yes No interaction

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Olive Ridley turtle Lepidochelys olivacea Yes No interaction Green turtle Chelonia mydas Yes No interaction Hawksbill turtle Eretmochelys imbricata Yes No interaction Loggerhead turtle Caretta caretta Yes No interaction Giant river salamander Andrias davidianus No Chinese bahaba Bahaba taipingensis/flavolabiata No Mottled moray eel Anguilla marmorata Yes No interaction Chinese high banded shark Myxocyprinus asiaticus Yes No interaction Rough-skinned skulpin Trachidermus fasciatus Heckel Yes No interaction Lancelet Branchiostoma Yes No interaction Great seahorse Hippocampus kelloggi Yes Fujian No interaction Tiger cowrie Cypraea tigris Yes Fujian No interaction Horned helmet shell Cassis cornuta Yes Fujian No interaction Acorn worm Saccoglossus hwangtauensis Yes Fujian No interaction Multi-opercular Tongue Worm Glossobalanus polybranchioporus Yes Fujian No interaction

Cappell (2019) also undertook a review of potential interactiosn with bird species. It was noted that Bai et al. (2015) identified coastal wetlands of importance to waterbirds. The list includes Xinghau Bay, which is one of the three bays supplying the white seed production. This site, where the main habitat types are listed as intertidal mudflat and aquaculture pond, met the Ramsar 1% population criterion for Saunder’s Gull (Larus saundersi) and Black-faced Spoonbill (Platalea minor).

The review by Cappell (2019) also determined that, overall the aquaculture production areas are used by and are considered beneficial to the spoonbill (Berjano et al. 2016). These authors determined that “protecting the Black-faced Spoonbill, for example, involves many issues that the aquaculture industry would also raise in resisting rampant development”. Nevertheless, while the black-faced spoonbill is present in Putian, the data presented in Bai et al (2015) confirms that Xinghau Bay is less significant than other areas for this species. It is however, a significant wintering area for the Saunder’s gull. It is reported that this species favours roosting on numerous offshore islands and feeding on mudflat areas. Manila clam culture is therefore expected to have no significant impact on the species.

For Donggang, the Yalu River Estuary is an inter-tidal area that is a globally recognised ecologically important area for bird species, including some vulnerable species. The Yalu Jiang Estuary Shorebird survey report (1999-2010) (Riegen et al. 2014) reported that wetlands surrounding the Yellow Sea are significant stopover sites for waterbirds during their north and southward migrations. The extensive coastal mudflats provide quality stopover sites for many thousands of migratory waterbirds of more than 100 species. Here they replenish their fat reserves before continuing their migrations, specifically during the northward shorebird migration between April and June each year. The Yellow Sea supports more than 30% of the estimated flyway breeding populations of 18 shorebird species, and for five of the species, Curlew Sandpiper, Bar-tailed Godwit, Eurasian Curlew, Great Knot and Kentish Plover this region supports almost the entire flyway population. Approximately 80% of the estimated flyway population of the Eastern Curlew uses the Yellow Sea on northward migration as does 40% of the Asian Dowitcher population. Nevertheless, there is apparently very little risk posed to shorebirds by the subtidal fishery for Manila clam in the Donggang region.

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8.4.1.4 Habitats

When assessing the status of habitats and the impacts of fishing, teams are required to consider the full area managed by the local, regional, national, or international governance body(s) responsible for fisheries management in the area(s) where the UoA operates (this is called the “managed area” for assessment purposes).

According to MSC 2018b (GSA 3.13.3), the Assessment Team must determine and justify which habitats are commonly encountered, vulnerable marine ecosystems (VMEs), and minor (i.e., all other habitats) for scoring purposes, [where]:

“A commonly encountered habitat shall be defined as a habitat that regularly comes into contact with a gear used by the UoA, considering the spatial (geographical) overlap of fishing effort with the habitat’s range within the management area(s) covered by the governance body(s) relevant to the UoA; and A VME shall be defined as is done in paragraph 42 subparagraphs (i)-(v) of the FAO Guidelines (definition provided in GSA 3.13.3.2 1 ) [as having one or more of the following characteristics: uniqueness or rarity, functional significance, fragility, Life-history traits of component species that make recovery difficult, and/or structural complexity]. This definition shall be applied both inside and outside EEZs and irrespective of depth.” It is noted that both commonly encountered and VME habitats are considered ‘main’ habitats for scoring purposes (GSA 3.13.3).

Putian element

For the Putian element, the habitat area under consideration is considered to be the entire intertidal and subtidal area of Meizhou Bay, Pinghai Bay and Xinghau Bay. As noted earlier, the bays are generally sedimentary, with some areas of gravel and exposed rock substrate in channels or towards the mouths of the bays where the tidal current velocities are higher (e.g. Taihong undated b, Taihong undated d).

Environmental impacts associated with the Putian element of the UoA includes those that may occur as a result of i) the local fishery from which the broodstock are selected, ii) the pond culture system from which the sand seed are produced, and iii) the ongrowing system from which the white seed are produced (see Figure 3). It is noted that the Assessment Team received only limited information on the areas in which the clam ponds are constructed or the white seed production occurred (e.g., WWF

1 According to MSC FCPV2.1 GSA 3.13.3.2: VMEs have one or more of the following characteristic, as defined in paragraph 42 of the FAO Guidelines: ▪ Uniqueness or rarity – an area or ecosystem that is unique or that contains rare species whose loss could not be compensated for by similar areas or ecosystems ▪ Functional significance of the habitat – discrete areas or habitats that are necessary for survival, function, spawning/reproduction, or recovery of fish stocks; for particular life- history stages (e.g., nursery grounds, rearing areas); or for ETP species ▪ Fragility – an ecosystem that is highly susceptible to degradation by anthropogenic activities ▪ Life-history traits of component species that make recovery difficult – ecosystems that are characterised by populations or assemblages of species that are slow growing, are slow maturing, have low or unpredictable recruitment, and/or are long lived ▪ Structural complexity – an ecosystem that is characterised by complex physical structures created by significant concentrations of biotic and abiotic features”

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2018b does not include information on Xinghau Bay). This would also need to be addressed in consultation with the client and any stakeholders.

Donggang element

For the Donggang element, the habitat area under consideration is considered to be the entire intertidal and subtidal area of Korea Bay within the northern Yellow Sea.

The commonly-encountered habitats in the on-growing areas are described as being mainly muddy sand with occasional stones. However this is modified in the licensed areas with the distribution of seed within shell-sand from the hatchery area. Fishers report that without management, un-worked areas quickly revert to muddy sand. Evidence from recovery studies in other sand / muddy sand environments (e.g., Hiddink et al. 2017, Sciberras et al. 2018) suggests that the recoverability of habitats from dredge activity occurs in the short-term (within 1-2 years). However habitat information is limited and a habitat map for the sub-tidal area was not available.

China has established Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) including coral reefs, mangrove forests and sea grass beds as well as whole islands (WWF 2018b). Other areas accorded protection include inshore spawning and nursery areas of commercially important species. The Yalu River Estuary National Wetland Reserve has zoned the inter-tidal and marine areas to better protect the wetland ecosystem from coastal development through establishing a core zone (fully protected from development), a buffer zone and an ‘experimental zone’ where development continues to be permitted, but is monitored (Figure 10).

The zoning is primarily to safeguard against coastal development that would adversely impact the important wetland habitats supporting internationally significant bird populations and not sub-tidal habitats. Vulnerable Marine Ecosystems (VMEs) are not expected to occur in the licensed areas, but knowledge of the surrounding sub-tidal area is limited. As activities are limited to licensed areas, impacts on VME habitats are expected to be negligible, but better information on common and VME marine habitats is needed.

8.4.1.5 Ecosystem Impacts

For the Putian element, the ecosystem is considered to be the southern East China Sea, while the key ecosystem element is considered to be community structure and function of the intertidal (littoral) and shallow subtidal (infralttoral) area.

For the Donggang element, the ecosystem is considered to be the northern Yellow Sea, while the key ecosystem element is considered to be community structure and function of the intertidal (littoral) and shallow subtidal (infralttoral) area.

For both the Putian and Donggang elements, there is reasonable information on the characteristics of the community within the bays where the fishery occurs (e.g., Taihong 2019b, Taihong undated a,

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Taihong undated b, Taihong undated c, Taihong undated d, WWF 2018b), although some of the information is a little dated in comparison to the development of the enhanced fishery in recent years.

The information presented provides a picture of very extensive intertidal and shallow subtidal areas, with a generally sedimentary nature and with high levels of productivity and production. There is also extensive fisheries and aquaculture activity generally, but given the scale of the intertidal and shallow subtidal in comparison to the scale of the Manila clam fishing activity related to the Yalu Estuary Clam Fishery it appears to be at least highly unlikely that either element of the fishery would disrupt the key elements underlying ecosystem structure and function to a point where there would be a serious or irreversible harm.

8.4.1.6 Translocation

All seed is sourced from Chinese hatcheries / nurseries that have both a seed production licence and an aquaculture license, and are inspected for biotoxins, parasites and pathogens before movement is allowed (tidal (Chang Ru LI, OFB Donggang, pers. comm., 20 April 2016). As such the translocation activity is highly unlikely to introduce diseases, pests, pathogens, or non-native species into the surrounding ecosystem. The following technical regulations are in place governing the production and transportation of seed in Putian (according to Zeng 2018):

1. The broodstock of Manila clam quality standard specifies the broodstock specifications, quality requirements, test methods, inspection rules, counting methods, packaging and transportation requirements, purification and maintenance requirements. This standard applies to the broodstock production and marketing of the quality assessment.

2. Clams seed collection and cultivation technical regulations. This regulation stipulates the seed collection and hatching techniques of clams. This procedure applies to semi-artificial collect clam seed, artificial soil pool hatching.

3. Clam seed quality standard specifies the seed specification. Test methods, inspection rules, counting methods and packaging and transportation requirements, this standard applies to the production and sale of clams seed quality assessment.

4. Clams cultivation technical regulations stipulates the techniques of clam cultivation and harvesting techniques. This procedure applies to the cultivation and harvest of clams.

5. Clam quality standards, stipulate commodity clams specifications, quality requirements, test methods, inspection rules, counting methods, transportation, packaging, decontamination, temporary cultivation, and other requirements, this standard applies to the production and sale of commodity clams quality assessment.

These standards and procedures, define the production quality assessment of broodstocks; semi- artificial clams collected and artificial pond cultivation; clam seed production and sales quality assessment; clams cultivation and harvesting technology, commodity clams production and sales quality assessment. Throughout the whole process of hatching, production, harvesting, and sales of clams, these procedures and standards provide managers and practitioners with the technical basis and guarantee to ensure the stable and healthy development of this industry.

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8.5 Principle 2 Performance Indicator scores and rationales

PI 2.1.1 – Primary species outcome PI 2.1.1 The UoA aims to maintain primary species above the point where recruitment would be impaired (PRI) and does not hinder recovery of primary species if they are below the PRI Scoring Issue SG 60 SG 80 SG 100

a Main primary species stock status

Guide Main primary species are Main primary species are There is a high degree of post likely to be above the PRI. highly likely to be above the certainty that main primary PRI. species are above the PRI OR and are fluctuating around OR a level consistent with MSY. If the species is below the PRI, the UoA has measures If the species is below the in place that are expected PRI, there is either evidence to ensure that the UoA of recovery or a does not hinder recovery demonstrably effective and rebuilding. strategy in place between all MSC UoAs which categorise this species as main, to ensure that they collectively do not hinder recovery and rebuilding. Met? Yes – Putian element Yes – Putian element Yes – Putian element Yes – Donggang element Yes – Donggang element Yes – Donggang element Rationale

‘Primary species’ are defined by the MSC as those that are in scope but not target (P1) species “where management tools and measures are in place, intended to achieve stock management objectives reflected in either limit or target reference points” (MSC 2018a). A ‘main’ designation is then given where either i) “the catch of a species by the UoA comprises 5% or more by weight of the total catch of all species by the UoA”, ii) “the species is classified as ‘less resilient’ and the catch of the species by the UoA comprises 2% or more by weight of the total catch of all species by the UoA”, or iii) in cases where the total catch of the UoA is exceptionally large, such that even small catch proportions of a P2 species significantly impact the affected stocks/populations. Sample data on bycatch in the fishery for large clams that occurs in Putian from which broodstock Manila clam are selected show there are no primary species (Table 10). It is assumed this is also the case for the preparation of ponds in Putian and in the collection of sand seed and white seed. No primary species are recorded in the logbook data for the Donggang fishery where Manila clam are harvested (Table 11). It is therefore understood that there are no primary species present in either element of the Yalu Estuary Manila Clam fishery. It is presumed that SG100 would be met because there is no impact on primary species (SA3.2.1, MSC 2018a). b Minor primary species stock status

Guide Minor primary species are post highly likely to be above the PRI.

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If below the PRI, there is evidence that the UoA does not hinder the recovery and rebuilding of minor primary species. Met? Yes – Putian element Yes – Donggang element Rationale

There are understood to be no minor primary species in either element of the Yalu Estuary Manila Clam fishery. It is presumed that SG100 would be met because there is no impact on primary species (SA3.2.1, MSC 2018a). References

Cappell, R. (2019) Yalu estuary clam MSC Pre-Assessment (revised). Poseidon Aquatic Resource Management Ltd., 15 April 2019, 94 pp. MSC (2018a). MSC Fisheries Standard, version 2.01. Marine Stewardship Council, London. 31st August 2018, 289 pp. Draft scoring range and information gap indicator added at Announcement Comment Draft Report

Draft scoring range >80

Information gap indicator In particular, more information will be sought during consultation on the following: • Further evidence of the catch profile for the the fishery overall, including in the sand seed and white seed production components. Overall Performance Indicator scores added from Client and Peer Review Draft Report

Overall Performance Indicator score

Condition number (if relevant)

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PI 2.1.2 – Primary species management strategy PI 2.1.2 There is a strategy in place that is designed to maintain or to not hinder rebuilding of primary species, and the UoA regularly reviews and implements measures, as appropriate, to minimise the mortality of unwanted catch Scoring Issue SG 60 SG 80 SG 100

a Management strategy in place

Guide There are measures in There is a partial strategy in There is a strategy in place post place for the UoA, if place for the UoA, if for the UoA for managing necessary, that are necessary, that is expected main and minor primary expected to maintain or to to maintain or to not hinder species. not hinder rebuilding of the rebuilding of the main main primary species at/to primary species at/to levels levels which are likely to be which are highly likely to be above the PRI. above the PRI. Met? Yes – Putian element Yes – Putian element Both elements – No Yes – Donggang element Yes – Donggang element Rationale

As noted in PI 2.1.1, there are understood to be no primary species in the Yalu Estuary Clam Fishery (Cappell 2019). As such and noting the ‘if necessary’ part of the SG60 and SG80 requirement, it is expected that SG80 would be met. In order for SG100 to be met, a strategy would be needed, specific to the primary species component (Table SA8, MSC 2018a). While there are at least some measures in place that do constrain impacts on all components (e.g., limits on licensing, spatial controls on activity, gear limits, logbook recording of catch, etc), it is not apparent that these are focused on possible impacts on primary species. b Management strategy evaluation

Guide The measures are There is some objective Testing supports high post considered likely to work, basis for confidence that confidence that the partial based on plausible the measures/partial strategy/strategy will work, argument (e.g., general strategy will work, based based on information experience, theory or on some information directly about the fishery comparison with similar directly about the fishery and/or species involved. fisheries/species). and/or species involved. Met? Yes – Putian element Yes – Putian element Both elements – No Yes – Donggang element Yes – Donggang element Rationale

If a partial strategy is not necessary because there are no main primary species, then this SI would be scored at least SG80 by default. It is not thought that there is ‘testing’ in place for either element that would support a SG100 score. c Management strategy implementation

Guide There is some evidence There is clear evidence that post that the measures/partial the partial strategy is being strategy/strategy is being implemented successfully. implemented successfully and is achieving its overall objective as set out in scoring issue (a). Met? Yes – Putian element Both elements – No Yes – Donggang element

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Rationale

If a partial strategy is not necessary because there are no main primary species, then this SI would be scored at least SG80 by default. It is not thought that there is ‘clear evidence’ available for either element that would support a SG100 score. d Shark finning

Guide It is likely that shark finning It is highly likely that shark There is a high degree of post is not taking place. finning is not taking place. certainty that shark finning is not taking place. Met? Both elements – N/A Both elements – N/A Both elements – N/A

Rationale

There are no primary species in the catch that are sharks. This SI is not scored. e Review of alternative measures

Guide There is a review of the There is a regular review of There is a biennial review post potential effectiveness and the potential effectiveness of the potential practicality of alternative and practicality of effectiveness and measures to minimise UoA- alternative measures to practicality of alternative related mortality of minimise UoA-related measures to minimise UoA- unwanted catch of main mortality of unwanted related mortality of primary species. catch of main primary unwanted catch of all species and they are primary species, and they implemented as are implemented, as appropriate. appropriate. Met? Yes – Putian element Yes – Putian element Both elements – No Yes – Donggang element Yes – Donggang element Rationale

If there are no main primary species this SI would score at least SG80. It is understood that there is not a biennial review of the effectiveness and practicality of alternative measures, so SG100 would not be met. References

Cappell, R. (2019) Yalu estuary clam MSC Pre-Assessment (revised). Poseidon Aquatic Resource Management Ltd., 15 April 2019, 94 pp. MSC (2018a). MSC Fisheries Standard, version 2.01. Marine Stewardship Council, London. 31st August 2018, 289 pp. Draft scoring range and information gap indicator added at Announcement Comment Draft Report

Draft scoring range ≥80 Information gap indicator If the catch profile for any element of the fishery shows any primary species, more information on management may be needed. At the present time, this is not thought likely, however. Overall Performance Indicator scores added from Client and Peer Review Draft Report Overall Performance Indicator score Condition number (if relevant)

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PI 2.1.3 – Primary species information PI 2.1.3 Information on the nature and extent of primary species is adequate to determine the risk posed by the UoA and the effectiveness of the strategy to manage primary species Scoring Issue SG 60 SG 80 SG 100

a Information adequacy for assessment of impact on main primary species

Guide Qualitative information is Some quantitative Quantitative information is post adequate to estimate the information is available and available and is adequate to impact of the UoA on the is adequate to assess the assess with a high degree of main primary species with impact of the UoA on the certainty the impact of the respect to status. main primary species with UoA on main primary respect to status. species with respect to OR status. OR If RBF is used to score PI 2.1.1 for the UoA: If RBF is used to score PI Qualitative information is 2.1.1 for the UoA: adequate to estimate Some quantitative productivity and information is adequate to susceptibility attributes for assess productivity and main primary species. susceptibility attributes for main primary species. Met? Yes – Putian element Yes – Putian element No – both elements Yes – Donggang element Yes – Donggang element Rationale

As noted in PI 2.1.1, there are understood to be no primary species in the Yalu Estuary Clam Fishery (Cappell 2019). There is sample information available on the mechanical dredge fishery of the Putian element (Table 10), and logbook data on the Donggang element (Table 11); neither are comprehensive but both should be considered quantitative and adequate to assess the impact of the UoA. There is no specific information available on the handworked fishery in Putian but this is considered to be a minor part of the fishery; information on catches in this part of the fishery should be addressed in the ACDR consultation period ahead of a site visit, but is not considered a critical failing. b Information adequacy for assessment of impact on minor primary species

Guide Some quantitative post information is adequate to estimate the impact of the UoA on minor primary species with respect to status. Met? Yes – Putian element Yes – Donggang element Rationale

There are understood to be no primary species in the Yalu Estuary Clam Fishery. Both the Putian and Donggang elements should score SG100 here. c Information adequacy for management strategy

Guide Information is adequate to Information is adequate to Information is adequate to post support measures to support a partial strategy to support a strategy to

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manage main primary manage main primary manage all primary species, species. species. and evaluate with a high degree of certainty whether the strategy is achieving its objective. Met? Yes – Putian element Yes – Putian element No – both elements Yes – Donggang element Yes – Donggang element Rationale

There are understood to be no primary species in the Yalu Estuary Clam Fishery (Cappell 2019). There is sample information available on the mechanical dredge fishery of the Putian element, and logbook data on the Donggang element; neither are comprehensive but both should be considered quantitative and adequate to assess the impact of the UoA. There is no specific information available on the handworked fishery in Putian but this is considered to be a minor part of the fishery. While information appears adequate to support a partial strategy, information on catches in the handwork fishery would support a score of 80. References

Cappell, R. (2019) Yalu estuary clam MSC Pre-Assessment (revised). Poseidon Aquatic Resource Management Ltd., 15 April 2019, 94 pp. Draft scoring range and information gap indicator added at Announcement Comment Draft Report

Draft scoring range >80

Information gap indicator In particular, more information will be sought during consultation on the following: • Information on catches in the handwork fishery, seed production and white seed components would support an 80 score. Overall Performance Indicator scores added from Client and Peer Review Draft Report

Overall Performance Indicator score

Condition number (if relevant)

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PI 2.2.1 – Secondary species outcome PI 2.2.1 The UoA aims to maintain secondary species above a biologically based limit and does not hinder recovery of secondary species if they are below a biological based limit Scoring Issue SG 60 SG 80 SG 100

a Main secondary species stock status

Guide Main secondary species are Main secondary species are There is a high degree of post likely to be above highly likely to be above certainty that main biologically based limits. biologically based limits. secondary species are above biologically based OR OR limits.

If below biologically based If below biologically based limits, there are measures limits, there is either in place expected to ensure evidence of recovery or a that the UoA does not demonstrably effective hinder recovery and partial strategy in place rebuilding. such that the UoA does not hinder recovery and rebuilding. AND Where catches of a main secondary species outside of biological limits are considerable, there is either evidence of recovery or a, demonstrably effective strategy in place between those MSC UoAs that have considerable catches of the species, to ensure that they collectively do not hinder recovery and rebuilding. Met? N/A N/A N/A

Rationale

‘Secondary species’ are defined by the MSC as those species that are in scope but not target (P1) species or P2 secondary species, or out of scope species where the ETP definition is not applicable (SA3.1.4, MSC 2014). As for primary species, the ‘main’ designation is then given where either i) “the catch of a species by the UoA comprises 5% or more by weight of the total catch of all species by the UoA”, or ii) “The species is classified as ‘Less resilient’ and the catch of the species by the UoA comprises 2% or more by weight of the total catch of all species by the UoA.” (SA3.4.2, MSC 2018a). Guidance at GSA3.4.2 clarifies that Assessment Teams “may still designate species as main, even though it falls under the designated weight thresholds of 5% or 2%, as long as a plausible argument is provided as to why the species should warrant that consideration”. Out of scope species that are not ETP are also required to be scored as ‘main’ (SA3.7.1.2, MSC 2014). Sample data on bycatch in the fishery for large clams that occurs in Putian from which broodstock Manila clam are selected show there are no main secondary species (Table 10). It is assumed this is also the case for the preparation of ponds in Putian and in the collection of sand seed and white seed. No main secondary species are understood to be taken in the Donggang fishery where Manila clam are harvested. It is therefore understood that there are no main secondary species present in either element of the Yalu Estuary Manila

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Clam fishery, and it is presumed that this SI would not be scored (https://mscportal.force.com/interpret/s/article/P2-species-outcome-PIs-scoring-when-no-main-or-no- minor-or-both-PI-2-1-1-1527262009344). b Minor secondary species stock status

Guide Minor secondary species are post highly likely to be above biologically based limits.

If below biologically based limits’, there is evidence that the UoA does not hinder the recovery and rebuilding of secondary species Met? Yes - Some minor species, in both elements (if scored with RBF) Rationale

Sample data on bycatch in the fishery for large clams that occurs in Putian from which broodstock Manila clam are selected show there areseveral minor secondary species, including Dosinia and Cyclina clam species, crabs and shrimps, all at low levels (<1%) (Table 10). It is assumed that there would also be minor secondary species in other parts of the Putian fishery (i.e., in the culture ponds and the white seed fishery). There are seven minor secondary species recorded in the Donggang fishery (i.e., Neverita didyma (Moon Snail), Rapana venosa (Asian rapa whelk), Dosinia japonica (Bivalve), Scapharca broughtonit (Blood clam), Solen grandis (Grand rasor shell), Oratosquilla oratoria (Mantis Shrimp), Temnopleurus hardwickii (Hardwick's sea urchin) – see Table 11, but flounder and and octopus are also taken in the fishery (Cappell 2019). These species would need to be assessed using the RBF if they were to be scored, but it is anticipated that they would meet a score of at least 80 if the RBF was undertaken. References

Cappell, R. (2019) Yalu estuary clam MSC Pre-Assessment (revised). Poseidon Aquatic Resource Management Ltd., 15 April 2019, 94 pp. MSC (2018a). MSC Fisheries Standard, version 2.01. Marine Stewardship Council, London. 31st August 2018, 289 pp. Draft scoring range and information gap indicator added at Announcement Comment Draft Report

Draft scoring range ≥80 Information gap indicator In particular, more information will be sought during consultation on the following: • Information on catches in the handwork fishery, seed production and white seed components would support an 80 score. Overall Performance Indicator scores added from Client and Peer Review Draft Report

Overall Performance Indicator score Condition number (if relevant)

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PI 2.2.2 – Secondary species management strategy PI 2.2.2 There is a strategy in place for managing secondary species that is designed to maintain or to not hinder rebuilding of secondary species and the UoA regularly reviews and implements measures, as appropriate, to minimise the mortality of unwanted catch Scoring Issue SG 60 SG 80 SG 100

a Management strategy in place

Guide There are measures in There is a partial strategy in There is a strategy in place post place, if necessary, which place, if necessary, for the for the UoA for managing are expected to maintain or UoA that is expected to main and minor secondary not hinder rebuilding of maintain or not hinder species. main secondary species rebuilding of main at/to levels which are secondary species at/to highly likely to be above levels which are highly biologically based limits or likely to be above to ensure that the UoA biologically based limits or does not hinder their to ensure that the UoA recovery. does not hinder their recovery. Met? Yes – Putian element Yes – Putian element No – both elements Yes – Donggang element Yes – Donggang element Rationale

As noted in PI 2.2.1, there are understood to be no main secondary species in the Yalu Estuary Clam Fishery (Cappell 2019). As such, and noting the ‘if necessary’ part of the SG60 and SG80 requirement, it is expected that SG80 would be met. In order for SG100 to be met, a strategy would be needed, specific to the secondary species component (Table SA8, MSC 2018a). While there are at least some measures in place that do constrain impacts on all components (e.g., limits on licensing, spatial controls on activity, gear limits, logbook recording of catch, etc), it is not apparent that these are focused specifically on impacts to secondary species. b Management strategy evaluation

Guide The measures are There is some objective Testing supports high post considered likely to work, basis for confidence that confidence that the partial based on plausible the measures/partial strategy/strategy will work, argument (e.g. general strategy will work, based on based on information experience, theory or some information directly directly about the UoA comparison with similar about the UoA and/or and/or species involved. UoAs/species). species involved. Met? Yes – Putian element Yes – Putian element No – both elements Yes – Donggang element Yes – Donggang element Rationale

If a partial strategy is not necessary because there are no main secondary species, then this SI would be scored at least SG80 by default. It is not thought that there is ‘testing’ in place for either element that would support a SG100 score. c Management strategy implementation

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objective as set out in scoring issue (a). Met? Yes – Putian element No – both elements Yes – Donggang element Rationale

If a partial strategy is not necessary because there are no main secondary species, then this SI would be scored at least SG80 by default. It is not thought that there is ‘clear evidence’ available for either element that would support a SG100 score. d Shark finning

Rationale

There are no secondary species in the catch that are sharks. This SI is not scored. e Review of alternative measures to minimise mortality of unwanted catch

Guide There is a review of the There is a regular review of There is a biennial review of post potential effectiveness and the potential effectiveness the potential effectiveness practicality of alternative and practicality of and practicality of measures to minimise UoA- alternative measures to alternative measures to related mortality of minimise UoA-related minimise UoA-related unwanted catch of main mortality of unwanted mortality of unwanted secondary species. catch of main secondary catch of all secondary species and they are species, and they are implemented as implemented, as appropriate. appropriate. Met? Yes – Putian element Yes – Putian element No – both elements Yes – Donggang element Yes – Donggang element Rationale

If there are no main secondary species this SI would score at least SG80. It is understood that there is not a biennial review of the effectiveness and practicality of alternative measures, so SG100 would not be met. References

Cappell, R. (2019) Yalu estuary clam MSC Pre-Assessment (revised). Poseidon Aquatic Resource Management Ltd., 15 April 2019, 94 pp. MSC (2018a). MSC Fisheries Standard, version 2.01. Marine Stewardship Council, London. 31st August 2018, 289 pp. Draft scoring range and information gap indicator added at Announcement Comment Draft Report

Draft scoring range ≥80

Information gap indicator In particular, more information will be sought during consultation on the following:

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• Information on catches in the handwork fishery, seed production and white seed components would support an 80 score. Overall Performance Indicator scores added from Client and Peer Review Draft Report

Overall Performance Indicator score

Condition number (if relevant)

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PI 2.2.3 – Secondary species information PI 2.2.3 Information on the nature and amount of secondary species taken is adequate to determine the risk posed by the UoA and the effectiveness of the strategy to manage secondary species Scoring Issue SG 60 SG 80 SG 100

a Information adequacy for assessment of impacts on main secondary species

Guide Qualitative information is Some quantitative Quantitative information is post adequate to estimate the information is available and available and adequate to impact of the UoA on the adequate to assess the assess with a high degree of main secondary species impact of the UoA on main certainty the impact of the with respect to status. secondary species with UoA on main secondary respect to status. species with respect to OR status. OR If RBF is used to score PI 2.2.1 for the UoA: If RBF is used to score PI 2.2.1 for the UoA: Qualitative information is adequate to estimate Some quantitative productivity and information is adequate to susceptibility attributes for assess productivity and main secondary species. susceptibility attributes for main secondary species. Met? Yes – Putian element No – Putian element No – both elements Yes – Donggang element Yes – Donggang element Rationale

As noted in PI 2.2.1, there are understood to be no main secondary species in the Yalu Estuary Clam Fishery (Cappell 2019). There is sample information available on the mechanical dredge fishery of the Putian element (Table 10), and logbook data on the Donggang element (Table 11); neither are comprehensive but both should be considered quantitative and adequate to assess the impact of the UoA. There is no specific quantitative information available on the handworked fishery in Putian or on the sand seed and white seed fishery components, but these appear very unlikely to include significant catches of other secondary species; nevertheless, information on catches in these parts of the fishery should be addressed in the ACDR consultation period ahead of a site visit to generate a score of 80. b Information adequacy for assessment of impacts on minor secondary species

Guide Some quantitative post information is adequate to estimate the impact of the UoA on minor secondary species with respect to status. Met? No – Putian element Yes – Donggang element Rationale

There are understood to be minor secondary species in Donggang element of the Yalu Estuary Clam Fishery, but the species mix and quantities relative to regional catches and or their distribution is not confirmed for the Putian element, which would not meet this SG100 requirement. More information on the broodstock

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fishery in particular, where there is no specific information available on the handworked fishery or the mechanical (vessel dredge) component, would be needed. c Information adequacy for management strategy

Guide Information is adequate to Information is adequate to Information is adequate to post support measures to support a partial strategy to support a strategy to manage main secondary manage main secondary manage all secondary species. species. species, and evaluate with a high degree of certainty whether the strategy is achieving its objective. Met? Yes – Putian element No – Putian element No – both elements Yes – Donggang element Yes – Donggang element Rationale

There are understood to be no main secondary species in the Yalu Estuary Clam Fishery (Cappell 2019). There is sample information available on the mechanical dredge fishery of the Putian element, and logbook data on the Donggang element; neither are comprehensive but both should be considered quantitative and adequate to assess the impact of the UoA. There is no specific information available on the handworked fishery in Putian or on the sand seed or white seed components, but these appear very unlikely to include significant catches of other secondary species. While information may adequate to support a partial strategy in general, information on catches in these other components of the Putian fishery would support a score of 80. References

Draft scoring range 60-75

Overall Performance Indicator score

Condition number (if relevant)

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PI 2.3.1 – ETP species outcome PI 2.3.1 The UoA meets national and international requirements for the protection of ETP species The UoA does not hinder recovery of ETP species Scoring Issue SG 60 SG 80 SG 100

a Effects of the UoA on population/stock within national or international limits, where applicable

Guide Where national and/or Where national and/or Where national and/or post international requirements international requirements international requirements set limits for ETP species, set limits for ETP species, set limits for ETP species, the effects of the UoA on the combined effects of the there is a high degree of the population/ stock are MSC UoAs on the certainty that the combined known and likely to be population /stock are effects of the MSC UoAs are within these limits. known and highly likely to within these limits. be within these limits. Met? N/A N/A N/A

Rationale

SA3.10.1 (MSC 2018a) requires that SIa is scored “where national and/or international requirements set limits”, referring to limits set for protection and rebuilding provided through the national legislation or binding international agreements, as defined in SA3.1.5 and subclauses. The Assessment Team is not aware of any such limits being in place for ETP species identified in this assessment, and so SIa is not scored. b Direct effects

Guide Known direct effects of the Known direct effects of the There is a high degree of post UoA are likely to not hinder UoA are likely to not hinder confidence that there are recovery of ETP species. recovery of ETP species. no significant detrimental direct effects of the UoA on ETP species. Met? Yes – Putian element Yes – Putian element No - both elements. Yes – Donggang element Yes – Donggang element Rationale

ETP species are defined by the MSC (MSC 2018a) as species that are: • Recognised by national ETP legislation, • Listed on Appendix I of CITES (unless it can be shown that the particular stock of the CITES listed species impacted by the UoA under assessment is not endangered), • Listed in any binding agreements concluded under the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS), or • Classified as ‘out of scope’ (amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals) that are listed in the IUCN Redlist as vulnerable (VU), endangered (EN) or critically endangered (CE). Cappell (2019) reviewed the potential for the Yalu Estuary Clam Fishery to interact with ETP species, and this review forms the basis for the assessment of ETP species in this ACDR. The Putian area has some ETP bird species present (Bai et al. 2015), namely Saunder’s gull (Larus saundersi) and the black-faced spoonbill (Platalea minor). However, these species appear likely to benefit from the seed cultivation processes in Putian rather than be adversely affected. For the Donggang element, the Yalu River Estuary provides a globally recognised, ecologically important intertidal area for shorebird species, including some vulnerable species. The Yalu Jiang Estuary Shorebird survey report (1999-2010) (Riegen et al. 2014) reported that wetlands surrounding the Yellow Sea are

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significant stopover sites for waterbirds during their north and southward migrations. However, the fishery operates subtidally and is very unlikely to interact significantly with shorebirds. Cappell (2019) also identified various other ETP species which may be present in either Putian or Donggang, or in both elements. However, none were considered likely to interact directly with the fishery because of the nature of the gear (a propeller or water jet dredge with a small mouth opening) and where it is used (Table 12). SG80 appears to be met for all species, but SG100 cannot be confirmed at this time. c Indirect effects

Guide Indirect effects have been There is a high degree of post considered for the UoA and confidence that there are are thought to be highly no significant detrimental likely to not create indirect effects of the UoA unacceptable impacts. on ETP species. Met? Yes – Putian element No - both elements. Yes – Donggang element Rationale

Indirect effects are considered here to be impacts on behaviours, feeding efficiency, essential/critical habitats or other aspects of ETP species’ life histories. While it is possible that shorebirds may be negatively impacted by the activity of vessels working close to shore, or by the activity of hand workers working in the intertidal, it appears likely that the habitat and seed enhancement activity will be beneficial rather than negative to these species. There are no other pathways where it is thought likely there would be indirect effects that might create unacceptable impacts. However, there is not a high degree of confidence, so SG100 is unlikely to be met. References

Cappell, R. (2019) Yalu estuary clam MSC Pre-Assessment (revised). Poseidon Aquatic Resource Management Ltd., 15 April 2019, 94 pp. MSC (2018a). MSC Fisheries Standard, version 2.01. Marine Stewardship Council, London. 31st August 2018, 289 pp. Riegen, A.C. Vaughan, G. R. & K.G. Rogers (2014). The Yalu Jiang Estuary Shorebird Survey Report 1999-2010. Published by, Yalu Jiang Estuary Wetland National Nature Reserve, China and Miranda Naturalists’ Trust, New Zealand. Draft scoring range and information gap indicator added at Announcement Comment Draft Report

Draft scoring range ≥80

Information gap indicator In particular, more information will be sought during consultation on the following: • More specific information on the fishery’s interaction with ETP species (i.e., logbook data or observer data if available) would help to confirm the score. Overall Performance Indicator scores added from Client and Peer Review Draft Report

Overall Performance Indicator score

Condition number (if relevant)

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PI 2.3.2 – ETP species management strategy PI 2.3.2 The UoA has in place precautionary management strategies designed to: - meet national and international requirements; - ensure the UoA does not hinder recovery of ETP species.

Also, the UoA regularly reviews and implements measures, as appropriate, to minimise the mortality of ETP species Scoring Issue SG 60 SG 80 SG 100

a Management strategy in place (national and international requirements)

Guide There are measures in There is a strategy in place There is a comprehensive post place that minimise the for managing the UoA’s strategy in place for UoA-related mortality of impact on ETP species, managing the UoA’s impact ETP species, and are including measures to on ETP species, including expected to be highly likely minimise mortality, which measures to minimise to achieve national and is designed to be highly mortality, which is designed international requirements likely to achieve national to achieve above national for the protection of ETP and international and international species. requirements for the requirements for the protection of ETP species. protection of ETP species. Met? Yes – Putian element No - both elements. No - both elements. Yes – Donggang element Rationale

As noted in PI 2.3.1, there are understood to be no ETP species that interact directly with the Yalu Estuary Clam Fishery (Cappell 2019). Nevertheless, the SG80 requirement here is for a ‘strategy’ (ie., which is specific to ETP species – Table SA8, MSC 2018a). As such, while there are measures in place (e.g., spatial controls on activity including the designation of protected areas, gear limits, logbook recording of catch, etc) that are expected to be highly likely to achieve national and international requirements for the protection of ETP species (including the requirement for Tier 1 species under the Law of the People's Republic of China on the Protection of Wildlife that there is no capture or exploitation of the species and is supported by the creation of protected areas – Cappell 2019) it is not clear that there is a ‘strategy’ in place, specifically with respect to recording any interactions (or absence of interactions) with ETP species in the Putian element (including any handworking on intertidal areas) or the Donggang element. As such, SG60 is met but it does not seem that SG80 is met for either element. b Management strategy in place (alternative)

Guide There are measures in There is a strategy in place There is a comprehensive post place that are expected to that is expected to ensure strategy in place for ensure the UoA does not the UoA does not hinder managing ETP species, to hinder the recovery of ETP the recovery of ETP species. ensure the UoA does not species. hinder the recovery of ETP species. Met? Yes – Putian element No - both elements. No - both elements. Yes – Donggang element Rationale

Similar to SIa, while there are measures in place (e.g., spatial controls on activity including the designation of protected areas, gear limits, logbook recording of catch, etc) that are expected to ensure the UoA does not hinder recovery of ETP species, it is not clear that there is a ‘strategy’ in place, specifically with respect to recording any interactions (or absence of interactions) with ETP species in the Putian element (including any

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handworking on intertidal areas) or the Donggang element. As such, SG60 is met but it does not seem that SG80 is met for either element. c Management strategy evaluation

Guide The measures are There is an objective basis The post considered likely to work, for confidence that the strategy/comprehensive based on plausible measures/strategy will strategy is mainly based on argument (e.g., general work, based on information information directly about experience, theory or directly about the fishery the fishery and/or species comparison with similar and/or the species involved, and a quantitative fisheries/species). involved. analysis supports high confidence that the strategy will work. Met? Yes – Putian element Yes – Putian element No - both elements. Yes – Donggang element Yes – Donggang element Rationale

The catch data that are available for the fishery, together with understanding of the gear types in use (i.e., that have limited if any potential for interaction with ETP spcies) and the habitat preferences for potential ETP species in the region, provide an objective basis for confidence that the measures will work. SG80 is met. SG100 cannot be met in the absence of at least a ‘strategy’. d Management strategy implementation

Guide There is some evidence There is clear evidence that post that the measures/strategy the is being implemented strategy/comprehensive successfully. strategy is being implemented successfully and is achieving its objective as set out in scoring issue (a) or (b). Met? Yes – Putian element No - both elements. Yes – Donggang element Rationale

The measures in place comprise spatial controls on activity including the designation of protected areas, gear limits, logbook recording of catch. Compliance monitoring provides evidence that these are being implemented successfully. In the absence of a strategy, though, SG100 cannot be met. e Review of alternative measures to minimize mortality of ETP species

Guide There is a review of the There is a regular review of There is a biennial review post potential effectiveness and the potential effectiveness of the potential practicality of alternative and practicality of effectiveness and measures to minimise UoA- alternative measures to practicality of alternative related mortality of ETP minimise UoA-related measures to minimise UoA- species. mortality of ETP species related mortality ETP and they are implemented species, and they are as appropriate. implemented, as appropriate. Met? N/A N/A N/A

Rationale

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There’s no evidence presented that the fishery interacts with ETP spcies. As such, it is considered that this SI is not scored. Nevertheless, if any evidence was presented to show that the fishery caused mortality of ETP spcies, this SI would have to be scored, and there is no evidence of a review of alternative measures having been undertaken. References

Cappell, R. (2019) Yalu estuary clam MSC Pre-Assessment (revised). Poseidon Aquatic Resource Management Ltd., 15 April 2019, 94 pp. MSC (2018a). MSC Fisheries Standard, version 2.01. Marine Stewardship Council, London. 31st August 2018, 289 pp. Draft scoring range and information gap indicator added at Announcement Comment Draft Report

Draft scoring range 60-75

Information gap indicator The MSC defines a ‘strategy’ as “a cohesive and strategic arrangement which may comprise one or more measures, an understanding of how it/they work to achieve an outcome and which should be designed to manage impact on that component [i.e., ETP species] specifically. A strategy needs to be appropriate to the scale, intensity and cultural context of the fishery and should contain mechanisms for the modification fishing practices in the light of the identification of unacceptable impacts [i.e. monitoring is required].” It is not clear that there is monitoring in place to allow the reliable identification of impacts or the absence of impacts on ETP species in the two elements, particularly in the Putian element where there is no information on the fishery from which the broodstock are obtained, or the handworked intertidal fishery, where shorebirds may be encountered. Overall Performance Indicator scores added from Client and Peer Review Draft Report

Overall Performance Indicator score

Condition number (if relevant)

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PI 2.3.3 – ETP species information PI 2.3.3 Relevant information is collected to support the management of UoA impacts on ETP species, including: - Information for the development of the management strategy; - Information to assess the effectiveness of the management strategy; and - Information to determine the outcome status of ETP species Scoring Issue SG 60 SG 80 SG 100

a Information adequacy for assessment of impacts

Guide Qualitative information is Some quantitative Quantitative information is post adequate to estimate the information is adequate to available to assess with a UoA related mortality on assess the UoA related high degree of certainty the ETP species. mortality and impact and to magnitude of UoA-related determine whether the impacts, mortalities and OR UoA may be a threat to injuries and the protection and recovery of consequences for the If RBF is used to score PI the ETP species. status of ETP species. 2.3.1 for the UoA: Qualitative information is OR adequate to estimate productivity and If RBF is used to score PI susceptibility attributes for 2.3.1 for the UoA: ETP species. Some quantitative information is adequate to assess productivity and susceptibility attributes for ETP species. Met? Yes – Putian element No – Putian element No – both elements Yes – Donggang element Yes – Donggang element Rationale

As noted in PI 2.3.1, there are understood to be no ETP species interactions in the Yalu Estuary Clam Fishery (Cappell 2019). Nevertheless, information on the derent components of the Putian element is contextual, only. This should be addressed in the ACDR consultation period ahead of a site visit. b Information adequacy for management strategy

Guide Information is adequate to Information is adequate to Information is adequate to post support measures to measure trends and support a comprehensive manage the impacts on ETP support a strategy to strategy to manage species. manage impacts on ETP impacts, minimize mortality species. and injury of ETP species, and evaluate with a high degree of certainty whether a strategy is achieving its objectives. Met? Yes – Putian element No – Putian element No – both elements Yes – Donggang element Yes – Donggang element Rationale

There is contextual information on the likelihood of interaction between the fishery and ETP species for both elements of the fishery, while logbooks are maintained for at least the Donggang element of the fishery, supporting a score of SG60, here, it is not clear that there is information adequate to measure trends and

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support a strategy, as this implies ongoing collection and collation of information on ETP interactions. SG60 would be met but not SG80. References

Draft scoring range 60-75

Information gap indicator Information on the ETP species monitoring programme would be sought during consultation, including independent data where appropriate. This would be for the Putian element in particular, but also for the Donggang element. Overall Performance Indicator scores added from Client and Peer Review Draft Report

Overall Performance Indicator score

Condition number (if relevant)

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PI 2.4.1 – Habitats outcome PI 2.4.1 The UoA does not cause serious or irreversible harm to habitat structure and function, considered on the basis of the area covered by the governance body(s) responsible for fisheries management in the area(s) where the UoA operates

Scoring Issue SG 60 SG 80 SG 100

a Commonly encountered habitat status

Guide The UoA is unlikely to The UoA is highly unlikely There is evidence that the post reduce structure and to reduce structure and UoA is highly unlikely to function of the commonly function of the commonly reduce structure and encountered habitats to a encountered habitats to a function of the commonly point where there would point where there would encountered habitats to a be serious or irreversible be serious or irreversible point where there would be harm. harm. serious or irreversible harm. Met? Yes – Putian element Yes – Putian element Yes – Putian element Yes – Donggang element Yes – Donggang element Yes – Donggang element Rationale

Habitat surveys were undertaken in both Putian (WWF 2018b) and Donggang (Taihong 2019b). Putian: The sediments suitable for growth of Manila clam is mainly silt-fine sand-medium sand, with a small amount of clay, and the content of fine sand and medium sand occupies 50%-70% sediment. There is no significant difference in species of macrobenthos between culture areas and wildlife areas. The habitat modification (pond construction and sand clearance) is temporary and habitats would quickly revert to a natural state without human intervention. In the natural intertidal and shallow subtidal areas, there evidence presented is that the sediment and community types were closely linked, with Manila clam preferring sandier sediments and not settling in muddiest areas. There was no detectable different in community types between aquaculture and non-aquaculture areas, although the biomass of animals in the protected areas may have been slightly higher (e.g., WWF 2018a). SG100 should be met, in part because of the scale of the activity in comparison to the scale of the large intertidal and shallow subtidal areas. Donggang: It was found that the sediment in aquaculture area A was mainly argillaceous (clay), while that in aquaculture area B and control area C was mainly silty (clay-silt) (Cappell 2019). The habitat survey concluded that there was no significant difference between the biodiversity of the cultured area and the control area in Donggang. The dominant species is the increased culture species of Manila clam. The density or biomass of clam is 2-4 orders of magnitude higher than that of other organisms. For the clam in the non-cultured control area C, the trend may come from the cultured area A, B or wild species. (2) Mud (clay) and silt (clay-silt) are the main sediments in the aquaculture area, which form a natural transition with the sediment in the control area. As the mixed clams are buried organisms, they have a good restoration effect on the muddy environment and reduce sediment hardening and anoxia. Because there is no reef bottom in this area, the bottom dragging rake production mode will not affect the sediment, on the contrary, it can prevent the sediment from hardening and anoxia. It seems likely that SG100 would be met for this element, also. b VME habitat status

Guide The UoA is unlikely to The UoA is highly unlikely There is evidence that the post reduce structure and to reduce structure and UoA is highly unlikely to function of the VME function of the VME reduce structure and habitats to a point where habitats to a point where function of the VME

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there would be serious or there would be serious or habitats to a point where irreversible harm. irreversible harm. there would be serious or irreversible harm. Met? N/A N/A N/A

Rationale

No VME habitats were identified that overlap with the UoA areas (Cappell 2019). Given the sedimentary nature of the bays in which the enhanced fishery occurs, the Assessment team has no reason to doubt this. This SI is not scored. c Minor habitat status

Guide There is evidence that the post UoA is highly unlikely to reduce structure and function of the minor habitats to a point where there would be serious or irreversible harm. Met? No – both elements

Rationale

Habitat mapping has been conducted in the area of both UoAs, although possibly not at a level that would allow minor habitats to be identified. This would need to be determined in further discussions with stakeholders. References

Cappell, R. (2019) Yalu estuary clam MSC Pre-Assessment (revised). Poseidon Aquatic Resource Management Ltd., 15 April 2019, 94 pp. Taihong (2019b). Habitat mapping and stock survey in Donggang. Yalu River Manila Clam Fishery Improvement Project. Report provided by Taihong Food Co. Ltd. for the assessment. 21 pp. WWF (2018b). Clam certification in the Yalu River Estuary; survey report on habitat of Manila Clam in Putian. WWF Beijing Office. July 10 2018. Draft scoring range and information gap indicator added at Announcement Comment Draft Report

Draft scoring range ≥80

Information gap indicator None in particular at this time.

Overall Performance Indicator scores added from Client and Peer Review Draft Report

Overall Performance Indicator score

Condition number (if relevant)

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PI 2.4.2 – Habitats management strategy PI 2.4.2 There is a strategy in place that is designed to ensure the UoA does not pose a risk of serious or irreversible harm to the habitats Scoring Issue SG 60 SG 80 SG 100

a Management strategy in place

Guide There are measures in There is a partial strategy in There is a strategy in place post place, if necessary, that place, if necessary, that is for managing the impact of are expected to achieve expected to achieve the all MSC UoAs/non-MSC the Habitat Outcome 80 Habitat Outcome 80 level of fisheries on habitats. level of performance. performance or above. Met? Yes – Putian element Yes – Putian element Yes – Putian element Yes – Donggang element Yes – Donggang element Yes – Donggang element Rationale

The Fisheries Law of the PRC (1986 amended 2004) and the Marine Functional Zoning system (Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee 2016) provides the framework for the development of measures to manage activities and constrain the impacts of both the Putian and Donggang elements of the Yalu Estuary Clam Fishery (e.g., Fujian Provincial People’s Congress 2006), as manifested through the specific aquaculture and clam culture plans for those areas (e.g., Putian People’s Government 2018, Donggang People’s Government 2018), as well as with specific licensing and gear limitation requirements (e.g., Fujian Provincial Government 2018, Ministry of Agriculture 2013, Ministry of Agriculture 2018). The zoning includes the designation of marine protected areas where fishing and aquaculture activities are not permitted (e.g.a round Meizhou Bay Island and in the Yalu River Estuary National Wetland Reserve (Figure 10). The system of zoning and the fishery management system is developed and monitored under the Ministry of Agriculture (Ministry of Agriculture 2009), and is understood to be based on available information on community, habitats, productivity and carrying capacity. As this zoning applies to all activities (i.e, including all MSC UoAs and non-MSC fisheries), it might be assumed that SG100 is met. b Management strategy evaluation

Guide The measures are There is some objective Testing supports high post considered likely to work, basis for confidence that confidence that the partial based on plausible the measures/partial strategy/strategy will work, argument (e.g. general strategy will work, based on based on information experience, theory or information directly about directly about the UoA comparison with similar the UoA and/or habitats and/or habitats involved. UoAs/habitats). involved. Met? Yes – Putian element Yes – Putian element No – both elements Yes – Donggang element Yes – Donggang element Rationale

Constraining activity to specific areas through zoning, while protecting representative and/or vulnerable locations within the inshore environment is a commonplace approach to constraining impacts on habitats. Fishing and farming activity is also to some extent rotational and provides opportunity for recovery of the habitats and benthic species between harvest periods, which together with the scale of the activity in comparison to the extent of the littoral and infralittoral zones then provides some objective basis for confidence that the strategy will work. It is not clear that there has been any testing other than through experience, but SG80 at least appears to be met. c Management strategy implementation

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Guide There is some quantitative There is clear quantitative post evidence that the evidence that the partial measures/partial strategy is strategy/strategy is being being implemented implemented successfully successfully. and is achieving its objective, as outlined in scoring issue (a). Met? Yes – Putian element No – both elements Yes – Donggang element Rationale

Zoning is confirmed to be undertaken and activity is closely monitored and managed. There is at least some evidence that the partial strategy is being implemented successfully in both Putian and Donggang. SG80 is met at least. d Compliance with management requirements and other MSC UoAs’/non-MSC fisheries’ measures to protect VMEs Guide There is qualitative There is some quantitative There is clear quantitative post evidence that the UoA evidence that the UoA evidence that the UoA complies with its complies with both its complies with both its management management requirements management requirements requirements to protect and with protection and with protection VMEs. measures afforded to VMEs measures afforded to VMEs by other MSC UoAs/non- by other MSC UoAs/non- MSC fisheries, where MSC fisheries, where relevant. relevant. Met? N/A N/A N/A

Rationale

Cappell, R. (2019) Yalu estuary clam MSC Pre-Assessment (revised). Poseidon Aquatic Resource Management Ltd., 15 April 2019, 94 pp. Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee (2016). The 13th Five-Year Plan (2016-2020) for Economic and Social Development of the People’s Republic of China. English translation available at: http://en.ndrc.gov.cn/newsrelease/201612/P020161207645765233498.pdf. Donggang People’s Government (2018). Plan for Aquaculture Waters and Tidal Flats in Donggang City (2018- 2030). Fisheries Law of the PRC (1986, amended 2004). http://english.agri.gov.cn/governmentaffairs/lr/201810/t20181022_296061.htm. Fujian Provincial People’s Congress (2006). Fujian Province Sea Area Use Management Regulations. http://www.fujian.gov.cn/zc/flfg/dfxfg/201604/t20160419_1200350.htm. Fujian Provincial Government (2018). Fishery Fishing License Cancellation, Expiration and Reissue: Provision of Renewal of Fishing Certificate http://www.fjbs.gov.cn/service.action?fn=detail&unid=9E517A3C7A1B0E6B6D3A768DB4CBA453&villageDe ptUnid=undefined.#

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Ministry of Agriculture (2009). Main functions of the Bureau of Fisheries. Date 2009-06-25. Website accessed October 2019. http://english.agri.gov.cn/aboutmoa/departments/201301/t20130115_9518.htm. Ministry of Agriculture (2013). Notice of the Ministry of Agriculture on the implementation of the minimum mesh size system for marine fishing and fishing gear 农业部关于实施海洋捕捞准用渔具和过渡渔具最小网目尺寸制度的通告 (http://jiuban.moa.gov.cn/zwllm/tzgg/tz/201312/t20131205_3699050.htm). Ministry of Agriculture (2018). Fishery fishing license management regulations http://www.gov.cn/gongbao/content/2019/content_5368590.html. Putian People’s Government (2018). Plan for Aquaculture Waters and Tidal Flats in Putian City (2018-2030). Draft scoring range and information gap indicator added at Announcement Comment Draft Report

Draft scoring range ≥80

Information gap indicator None at this time.

Overall Performance Indicator scores added from Client and Peer Review Draft Report

Overall Performance Indicator score

Condition number (if relevant)

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PI 2.4.3 – Habitats information PI 2.4.3 Information is adequate to determine the risk posed to the habitat by the UoA and the effectiveness of the strategy to manage impacts on the habitat

Scoring Issue SG 60 SG 80 SG 100

a Information quality

Guide The types and distribution The nature, distribution and The distribution of all post of the main habitats are vulnerability of the main habitats is known over their broadly understood. habitats in the UoA area range, with particular are known at a level of attention to the occurrence OR detail relevant to the scale of vulnerable habitats. and intensity of the UoA. If CSA is used to score PI 2.4.1 for the UoA: OR Qualitative information is adequate to estimate the If CSA is used to score PI types and distribution of 2.4.1 for the UoA: the main habitats. Some quantitative information is available and is adequate to estimate the types and distribution of the main habitats. Met? Yes – Putian element Yes – Putian element No – both elements Yes – Donggang element Yes – Donggang element Rationale

As highlighted in PI 2.4.1, habitat surveys were undertaken recently in both Putian (WWF 2018b) and Donggang (Taihong 2019b). It is not clear that the distribution of all habitats is known over their range however, so SG100 is not met. b Information adequacy for assessment of impacts

Guide Information is adequate to Information is adequate to The physical impacts of the post broadly understand the allow for identification of gear on all habitats have nature of the main impacts the main impacts of the been quantified fully. of gear use on the main UoA on the main habitats, habitats, including spatial and there is reliable overlap of habitat with information on the spatial fishing gear. extent of interaction and on the timing and location of OR use of the fishing gear.

If CSA is used to score PI OR 2.4.1 for the UoA: Qualitative information is If CSA is used to score PI adequate to estimate the 2.4.1 for the UoA: consequence and spatial Some quantitative attributes of the main information is available and habitats. is adequate to estimate the consequence and spatial attributes of the main habitats.

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Met? Yes – Putian element Yes – Putian element No – both elements Yes – Donggang element Yes – Donggang element Rationale

Studies have been conducted looking at fished areas of the two fishery elements and unfished areas in close proximity to understand the impact of the fishery on the local habitats (WWF 2018b, Taihong 2019b). Activity is also zoned and monitored, such that it is clear that Information is adequate to allow for identification of the main impacts of the UoA on the main habitats, and there is reliable information on the spatial extent of interaction and on the timing and location of use of the fishing gear. SG80 should be met, but it is not clear that the physical impacts on all habitats have been quantified fully, so SG100 is unlikely to be met. c Monitoring

Guide Adequate information Changes in all habitat post continues to be collected to distributions over time are detect any increase in risk measured. to the main habitats. Met? Yes – Putian element No – both elements Yes – Donggang element Rationale

Monitoring of the farming and fishing activities is undertaken routinely, including through the collection of logbooks and farming and fishing location data. SG80 would be met, but it is understood that changes in habitat distribution over time are not measured – SG100 would not be met. References

Taihong (2019b). Habitat mapping and stock survey in Donggang. Yalu River Manila Clam Fishery Improvement Project. Report provided by Taihong Food Co. Ltd. for the assessment. 21 pp. WWF (2018b). Clam certification in the Yalu River Estuary; survey report on habitat of Manila Clam in Putian. WWF Beijing Office. July 10 2018. Draft scoring range and information gap indicator added at Announcement Comment Draft Report

Draft scoring range ≥80

Information gap indicator More information sought / Information sufficient to score PI Overall Performance Indicator scores added from Client and Peer Review Draft Report

Overall Performance Indicator score

Condition number (if relevant)

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PI 2.5.1 – Ecosystem outcome PI 2.5.1 The UoA does not cause serious or irreversible harm to the key elements of ecosystem structure and function Scoring Issue SG 60 SG 80 SG 100

a Ecosystem status

Guide The UoA is unlikely to The UoA is highly unlikely to There is evidence that the post disrupt the key elements disrupt the key elements UoA is highly unlikely to underlying ecosystem underlying ecosystem disrupt the key elements structure and function to a structure and function to a underlying ecosystem point where there would be point where there would be structure and function to a a serious or irreversible a serious or irreversible point where there would harm. harm. be a serious or irreversible harm. Met? Yes – Putian element Yes – Putian element Possible Yes – Both Yes – Donggang element Yes – Donggang element elements Rationale

The focus of scoring PI 2.5.1 is the impact of the fishery on the ‘key ecosystem elements’. These are defined by the MSC as “the features of an ecosystem considered as being most crucial to giving the ecosystem its characteristic nature and dynamics, and are considered relative to the scale and intensity of the UoA. They are features most crucial to maintaining the integrity of its structure and functions and the key determinants of the ecosystem resilience and productivity” (SA3.16.3 MSC 2018a). For the Putian element, the ecosystem is considered to be the southern East China Sea, while the key ecosystem element is considered to be community structure and function of the intertidal (littoral) and shallow subtidal (infralittoral) area. For the Donggang element, the ecosystem is considered to be the northern Yellow Sea, while the key ecosystem element is considered to be community structure and function of the intertidal (littoral) and shallow subtidal (infralittoral) area. For both the Putian and Donggang elements, there is reasonable information on the characteristics of the community within the bays where the fishery occurs (e.g., Taihong 2019b, Taihong undated a, Taihong undated b, Taihong undated c, Taihong undated d, WWF 2018b), although some of the information is a little dated in comparison to the development of the enhanced fishery in recent years. The information presented provides a picture of very extensive intertidal and shallow subtidal areas, with a generally sedimentary nature and with high levels of productivity and production. There is also extensive fisheries and aquaculture activity generally, but given the scale of the intertidal and shallow subtidal in comparison to the scale of the Manila clam fishing activity related to the Yalu Estuary Clam Fishery it appears to be at least highly unlikely that either element of the fishery would disrupt the key elements underlying ecosystem structure and function to a point where there would be a serious or irreversible harm. References

Taihong (2019b). Habitat mapping and stock survey in Donggang. Yalu River Manila Clam Fishery Improvement Project. Report provided by Taihong Food Co. Ltd. for the assessment. 21 pp. Taihong (undated a). Sustainable fishery improvement of plan of the Manila clam in the Estuary of the Yalu River; Ecological Assessment (IPG 7). Unattributed report provided by Taihong Food Co. Ltd. for the assessment. 10 pp.

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Taihong (undated b). 4 IPG 4&6 Gulf Report-EN Meizhou Bay（英文加图版）湄洲湾. Unattributed report provided by Taihong Food Co. Ltd. for the assessment. 8 pp. Taihong (undated c). 4 IPG 4&6 Gulf Report-EN Pinghai Bay（平海湾 habitat mapping 英文版. Unattributed report provided by Taihong Food Co. Ltd. for the assessment. 4 pp.

Taihong (undated d). 4 IPG 4&6 Gulf Report-EN Xinghau Bay（兴化湾 habitat mapping 概况英文版. Unattributed report provided by Taihong Food Co. Ltd. for the assessment. 4 pp. WWF (2018b). Clam certification in the Yalu River Estuary; survey report on habitat of Manila Clam in Putian. WWF Beijing Office. July 10 2018. Draft scoring range and information gap indicator added at Announcement Comment Draft Report

Draft scoring range ≥80

Information gap indicator None is considered needed at this time.

Overall Performance Indicator scores added from Client and Peer Review Draft Report

Overall Performance Indicator score

Condition number (if relevant)

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PI 2.5.2 – Ecosystem management strategy PI 2.5.2 There are measures in place to ensure the UoA does not pose a risk of serious or irreversible harm to ecosystem structure and function Scoring Issue SG 60 SG 80 SG 100

a Management strategy in place

Guide There are measures in There is a partial strategy in There is a strategy that post place, if necessary which place, if necessary, which consists of a plan, in take into account the takes into account available place which contains potential impacts of the information and is expected measures to address all UoA on key elements of to restrain impacts of the main impacts of the UoA the ecosystem. UoA on the ecosystem so as on the ecosystem, and at to achieve the Ecosystem least some of these Outcome 80 level of measures are in place. performance. Met? Yes – Putian element Yes – Putian element No – Putian element Yes – Donggang element Yes – Donggang element No – Donggang element Rationale

Similar to the scoring of PI 2.4.2, the Fisheries Law of the PRC (1986 amended 2004) and the Marine Functional Zoning system (Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee 2016) provides the framework for the development of measures to manage activities and constrain the impacts of both the Putian and Donggang elements of the Yalu Estuary Clam Fishery (e.g., Fujian Provincial People’s Congress 2006), as manifested through the specific aquaculture and clam culture plans for those areas (e.g., Putian People’s Government 2018, Donggang People’s Government 2018), as well as with specific licensing and gear limitation requirements (e.g., Fujian Provincial Government 2018, Ministry of Agriculture 2013, Ministry of Agriculture 2018). The zoning includes the designation of marine protected areas where fishing and aquaculture activities are not permitted (e.g.a round Meizhou Bay Island and in the Yalu River Estuary National Wetland Reserve (Figure 10). The system of zoning and the fishery management system is developed and monitored under the Ministry of Agriculture (Ministry of Agriculture 2009), and is understood to be based on available information on community, habitats, productivity and carrying capacity. There is a partial strategy in place at least, and so SG80 at least should be met. b Management strategy evaluation

Guide The measures are There is some objective basis Testing supports high post considered likely to work, for confidence that the confidence that the based on plausible measures/ partial strategy partial strategy/ strategy argument (e.g., general will work, based on some will work, based on experience, theory or information directly about information directly comparison with similar the UoA and/or the about the UoA and/or UoAs/ ecosystems). ecosystem involved. ecosystem involved.

Met? Yes – Putian element Yes – Putian element No – both elements. Yes – Donggang element Yes – Donggang element Rationale

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activity in comparison to the extent of the littoral and infralittoral zones then provides some objective basis for confidence that the partial strategy will work. It is not clear that there has been any testing other than through experience, but SG80 at least appears to be met. c Management strategy implementation

Guide There is some evidence that There is clear evidence post the measures/partial that the partial strategy is being strategy/strategy is being implemented successfully. implemented successfully and is achieving its objective as set out in scoring issue (a). Met? Yes – Putian element No – both elements. Yes – Donggang element Rationale

Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee (2016). The 13th Five-Year Plan (2016-2020) for Economic and Social Development of the People’s Republic of China. English translation available at: http://en.ndrc.gov.cn/newsrelease/201612/P020161207645765233498.pdf. Donggang People’s Government (2018). Plan for Aquaculture Waters and Tidal Flats in Donggang City (2018- 2030). Fisheries Law of the PRC (1986, amended 2004). http://english.agri.gov.cn/governmentaffairs/lr/201810/t20181022_296061.htm. Fujian Provincial People’s Congress (2006). Fujian Province Sea Area Use Management Regulations. http://www.fujian.gov.cn/zc/flfg/dfxfg/201604/t20160419_1200350.htm. Fujian Provincial Government (2018). Fishery Fishing License Cancellation, Expiration and Reissue: Provision of Renewal of Fishing Certificate http://www.fjbs.gov.cn/service.action?fn=detail&unid=9E517A3C7A1B0E6B6D3A768DB4CBA453&villageDe ptUnid=undefined.# Ministry of Agriculture (2009). Main functions of the Bureau of Fisheries. Date 2009-06-25. Website accessed October 2019. http://english.agri.gov.cn/aboutmoa/departments/201301/t20130115_9518.htm. Ministry of Agriculture (2013). Notice of the Ministry of Agriculture on the implementation of the minimum mesh size system for marine fishing and fishing gear 农业部关于实施海洋捕捞准用渔具和过渡渔具最小网目尺寸制度的通告 (http://jiuban.moa.gov.cn/zwllm/tzgg/tz/201312/t20131205_3699050.htm). Ministry of Agriculture (2018). Fishery fishing license management regulations http://www.gov.cn/gongbao/content/2019/content_5368590.html. Putian People’s Government (2018). Plan for Aquaculture Waters and Tidal Flats in Putian City (2018-2030). Draft scoring range and information gap indicator added at Announcement Comment Draft Report

Draft scoring range ≥80

Information gap indicator More information sought / Information sufficient to score PI

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PI 2.5.3 – Ecosystem information PI 2.5.3 There is adequate knowledge of the impacts of the UoA on the ecosystem

Scoring Issue SG 60 SG 80 SG 100

a Information quality

Guide Information is adequate Information is adequate to post to identify the key broadly understand the key elements of the elements of the ecosystem. ecosystem. Met? Yes – Putian element Yes – Putian element Yes – Donggang element Yes – Donggang element Rationale

For both the Putian and Donggang elements, there is good information on the characteristics of the community within the bays where the fishery occurs (e.g., Taihong 2019b, Taihong undated a, Taihong undated b, Taihong undated c, Taihong undated d, WWF 2018b), including on the seasonal abundance, feeding habits and interactions between component species. Information is considered adequate to broadly understand the key elements of the ecosystem for both Putian and Donggang, so SG80 would be met. b Investigation of UoA impacts

Guide Main impacts of the UoA Main impacts of the UoA on Main interactions post on these key ecosystem these key ecosystem between the UoA and elements can be inferred elements can be inferred these ecosystem elements from existing information, from existing information, can be inferred from but have not been and some have been existing information, and investigated in detail. investigated in detail. have been investigated in detail. Met? Yes – Putian element Yes – Putian element No – both elements Yes – Donggang element Yes – Donggang element Rationale

The impacts of both elements of the Yalu Estuary Manila Clam can be inferred from existing information and some have been investigated in detail, specifically on the effect of farming activity on the benthic community biomass and diversity in comparison to non-aquaculture and protected areas in Putian (WWF 2018b) and in locations around the Donggang site (Taihong 2019b). SG80 should be met, but longer term data are not available, and it would be recommended in certifying the fishery that data collection and monitoring are continued. c Understanding of component functions

Guide The main functions of the The impacts of the UoA on post components (i.e., P1 target P1 target species, primary, species, primary, secondary secondary and ETP species and ETP species and and Habitats are identified Habitats) in the ecosystem and the main functions of are known. these components in the ecosystem are understood. Met? Yes – Putian element No – both elements Yes – Donggang element

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Rationale

Work has been undertaken to describe the main functions of the components in the ecosystem (Taihong undated a, Taihong undated b, Taihong undated c, Taihong undated d). This is sufficient to know the main functions of the components in the ecosystem. SG80 should be met, and possibly a higher score with additional opportunity to question scientists and other stakeholders in later stages of the assessment. d Information relevance

Guide Adequate information is Adequate information is post available on the impacts of available on the impacts of the UoA on these the UoA on the components to allow some components and elements of the main consequences to allow the main for the ecosystem to be consequences for the inferred. ecosystem to be inferred. Met? Yes – Putian element Yes / No Yes – Donggang element Rationale

Work has been undertaken to describe the main functions of the components in the ecosystem, particularly in relation to their interaction with the two elements of the fishery (Taihong undated a, Taihong undated b, Taihong undated c, Taihong undated d). Adequate information is available on the impacts of the UoA on these components to allow some of the main consequences for the ecosystem to be inferred. For both elements, a higher score may be possible, but it is noted that the Assessment Team does not have information on carrying capacity of the two systems at this time. e Monitoring

Guide Adequate data continue to Information is adequate to post be collected to detect any support the development increase in risk level. of strategies to manage ecosystem impacts. Met? Yes – Putian element Yes / No Yes – Donggang element Rationale

Monitoring of the farming and fishing activities is undertaken routinely, including through the collection of logbooks and farming and fishing location data. SG80 would be met, but it is not clear how much independent data are collected on the fishery and whether there is additional information being collected routinely on the wider environment to support the development of a strategy. References

Taihong (2019b). Habitat mapping and stock survey in Donggang. Yalu River Manila Clam Fishery Improvement Project. Report provided by Taihong Food Co. Ltd. for the assessment. 21 pp. Taihong (undated a). Sustainable fishery improvement of plan of the Manila clam in the Estuary of the Yalu River; Ecological Assessment (IPG 7). Unattributed report provided by Taihong Food Co. Ltd. for the assessment. 10 pp.

Taihong (undated b). 4 IPG 4&6 Gulf Report-EN Meizhou Bay（英文加图版）湄洲湾. Unattributed report provided by Taihong Food Co. Ltd. for the assessment. 8 pp.

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Taihong (undated c). 4 IPG 4&6 Gulf Report-EN Pinghai Bay（平海湾 habitat mapping 英文版. Unattributed report provided by Taihong Food Co. Ltd. for the assessment. 4 pp.

Draft scoring range ≥80

Information gap indicator None in particular at this time.

Overall Performance Indicator scores added from Client and Peer Review Draft Report

Overall Performance Indicator score

Condition number (if relevant)

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PI 2.6.1 – Translocation outcome PI 2.6.1 The translocation activity has negligible discernible impact on the surrounding ecosystem Scoring Issue SG 60 SG 80 SG 100

a Impact of translocation activity

Guide The translocation activity is The translocation activity is There is evidence that the post unlikely to introduce highly unlikely to introduce translocation activity is diseases, pests, pathogens, diseases, pests, pathogens, highly unlikely to introduce or non-native species or non-native species into diseases, pests, pathogens, (species not already the surrounding ecosystem. or non-native species into established in the the surrounding ecosystem) into the ecosystem. surrounding ecosystem. Met? N/A – Putian element N/A – Putian element N/A – Putian element Yes – Donggang element No – Donggang element No – Donggang element Rationale

White seed (Manila clam of ≈ 10 mm shell length) are moved from Putian to Donggang (a straight-line distance of approximately 1,600 km) before being seeded into the shallow subtidal, leased plots prior to being ongrown to market size. This qualifies as a translocation, and requires that the translocation PIs are scored. However, they are scored only for the Donggang element of the fishery. Yan (undated) indicates that there is quarantine and inspection of seedlings to prevent the entry of harmful organisms, and this is noted also by DCOFB & DCHAPIA (2018). Zeng (2018) noted that all seed is sourced from Chinese hatcheries / nurseries that have both a seed production licence and an aquaculture license, and are inspected for biotoxins, parasites and pathogens before movement is allowed. However, when asked about quarantine measures, the answers to additional questions stated that there were ‘basically not’ any quarantine processes (Taihong 2019a). At the present time it is assumed that translocation activity is unlikely to introduce non-local diseases, pests, pathogens, or species, but it is not considered highly unlikely. SG60 is met but more information would be needed to score SG80 or higher. References

DCOFB & DCHAPIA (2018). Investigation on the status of Manila clam seed status. Fisheries department, Donggang City Ocean and Fisheries Bureau and the Donggang City Huanghai Aquatic Products Industry Association, October 16th, 2018, 5 pp. Taihong (2019a). The additional answers highlighted by red color. Excel file provided by the client to the Assessment Team, August 2019. Yan, X (undated). Substainable Fishery Improvement Plan of Manila Clam in the Estuary of Yalu River; Genetic and Translocation Risk Assessment (IPG1,5,8). 4 pp. Zeng, Z. (2018). The Strategy of Aquaculture (Harvesting) for Manila Clam in Putian, Fujian Province. Draft scoring range and information gap indicator added at Announcement Comment Draft Report

Draft scoring range 60-75 Information gap indicator More information would be needed on the quarantine and inspection process for the translocation of seed. Overall Performance Indicator scores added from Client and Peer Review Draft Report

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Overall Performance Indicator score

Condition number (if relevant)

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PI 2.6.2 – Translocation management PI 2.6.2 There is a strategy in place for managing translocations such that the fishery does not pose a risk of serious or irreversible harm to the surrounding ecosystem

Scoring Issue SG 60 SG 80 SG 100

a Translocation management strategy in place

Guide There are measures in There is a partial strategy in There is a strategy in place post place which are expected to place, if necessary, that is for managing the impacts protect the surrounding expected to protect the of translocation on the ecosystem from the surrounding ecosystem surrounding ecosystem. translocation activity at from the translocation levels compatible with the activity at levels compatible SG80 Translocation the SG80 Translocation outcome level of outcome level of performance (PI 2.6.1). performance (PI 2.6.1). Met? N/A – Putian element N/A – Putian element N/A – Putian element Yes – Donggang element Yes – Donggang element No – Donggang element Rationale

Translocation is scored only for the Donggang element of the fishery, where white seed (Manila clam of ≈ 10 mm shell length) are moved from Putian to Donggang before being seeded into the shallow subtidal, leased plots prior to being on-grown to market size. As noted in PI 2.6.1, Yan (undated) indicates that there is quarantine and inspection of seedlings to prevent the entry of harmful organisms, and this is noted also by DCOFB & DCHAPIA (2018). Zeng (2018) noted that all seed is sourced from Chinese hatcheries / nurseries that have both a seed production licence and an aquaculture license, and are inspected for biotoxins, parasites and pathogens before movement is allowed. This is expected to comprise a partial strategy that is , that is expected to protect the surrounding ecosystem from the translocation activity at levels compatible the SG80 Translocation outcome level of performance. SG80 appears to be met. However, more information would usefully be provided to confirm this score, and to score SG100. b Translocation management strategy evaluation

Guide The measures are A valid documented risk An independent peer- post considered likely to work assessment or equivalent reviewed scientific based on plausible environmental impact assessment confirms with a argument (e.g. general assessment demonstrates high degree of certainty experience, theory, or that the translocation that there are no risks to comparison with similar activity is highly unlikely to the surrounding ecosystem fisheries/species). introduce diseases, pests, associated with the pathogens, or non-native translocation activity. species into the surrounding ecosystem. Met? N/A – Putian element N/A – Putian element N/A – Putian element Yes – Donggang element No – Donggang element No – Donggang element Rationale

Yan (undated) was titled a translocation risk assessment, but only commented that “if the inspection and quarantine are omitted, when seedlings of Putian stock are transferred to Donggang, there is also a risk of bringing in harmful organisms of a wide ecological amplitude.” There is also relatively little information provided in Zeng (2018) as to what the inspection process is, what is being looked for, nor what the inspection

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rate is. As such, while it is considered that the measures would work (based on likely similarity or consistency with other translocation strategies), SG80 cannot be met at the present time while information on the approach undertaken is missing. c Translocation contingency measures

Guide Contingency measures have A formalised contingency post been agreed in the case of plan in the case of an an accidental introduction accidental introduction of of diseases, pests, diseases, pests, pathogens, pathogens, or non-native or non-native species due species due to the to the translocation is translocation. documented and available. Met? N/A – Putian element N/A – Putian element No – Donggang element No – Donggang element Rationale

‘Quarantine’ is mentioned by Yan (undated), but there is no actual information available to the Assessment Team to confirm that contingency measures are in place in the case of an accidental introduction. The answers to additional questions (Taihong 2019a) stated that there were ‘basically not’ any quarantine processes. At the current time, the Donggang element does not meet SG80, here. References

Draft scoring range 60-75

Information gap indicator More information is required in the inspection and quarantine process at consultation in order for the fishery to meet even the SG60 minimum, here. Overall Performance Indicator scores added from Client and Peer Review Draft Report

Overall Performance Indicator score

Condition number (if relevant)

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PI 2.6.3 – Translocation information PI 2.6.3 Information on the impact of the translocation activity on the environment is adequate to determine the risk posed by the fishery Scoring Issue SG 60 SG 80 SG 100

a Information quality

Guide Information is available on Information is sufficient to Information from frequent post the presence or absence of adequately inform the risk and comprehensive diseases, pests, pathogens, and impact assessments monitoring demonstrates and non-native species at required in the SG80 no impact from introduced the source and destination Translocation management diseases, pests, and non- of the translocated stock to level of performance (PI native species with a high guide the management 2.6.2). degree of certainty. strategy and reduce the risks associated with the translocation. Met? N/A – Putian element N/A – Putian element N/A – Putian element Yes – Donggang element No – Donggang element No – Donggang element Rationale

‘Quarantine and inspection of seedlings’ were listed as measures being in place (Yan undated). Cappell (2019) stated “Information is known on the available on the presence or absence of diseases, pests, pathogens, and non-native species at the source and destination of the translocated stock through certification and inspection”. As such, SG60 should be met. However, the Assessment Team has not been provided with any information on the inspection process in either Putian or Donggang, and it is clear that this information will need to be made available in order to confirm the SG60 score and possibly score at SG80 or higher. References

Cappell, R. (2019) Yalu estuary clam MSC Pre-Assessment (revised). Poseidon Aquatic Resource Management Ltd., 15 April 2019, 94 pp. Yan, X (undated). Substainable Fishery Improvement Plan of Manila Clam in the Estuary of Yalu River; Genetic and Translocation Risk Assessment (IPG1,5,8). 4 pp. Draft scoring range and information gap indicator added at Announcement Comment Draft Report

Draft scoring range 60

Overall Performance Indicator score

Condition number (if relevant)

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8.6 Principle 3

8.6.1 Principle 3 background

8.6.1.1 National Level Management

Decision Making Processes

The fisheries management system in China has established, well-defined processes to develop strategies for achieving objectives. The Fisheries Law of the People’s Republic of China (中华人民共和国渔业法; hereafter referred to as the Fisheries Law) is the main piece of legislation governing fisheries and aquaculture management, nationally. It was enacted in 1986 and most recently amended in 2004. The law’s main purpose is stated as follows (Article 1):

“This Law enacted for the purpose of enhancing the protection, increase, development and rational utilization of fishery resources, developing artificial cultivation, ensuring fishery workers' lawful rights and interests and boosting fishery production, so as to meet the need of socialist construction and the people's needs.”

The Fisheries Law, along with the Marine Environmental Protection Law of the People's Republic of China (PRC; 1982), the Law of the PRC on Prevention and Control of Water Pollution (1984) and the Environmental Protection Law of the PRC (1989), set the legal foundation for protection and management of China’s fishery and aquaculture waters (Huang and He 2019).

The Fisheries Law outlines the hierarchical, top-down structure of fisheries management in China. The State Council, also referred to as the Central People’s Government, is the chief administrative authority of the PRC. The State Council conducts planning for how waters will be used, including determination of the waters and tidal flats that can be used for aquaculture (Fisheries Law 1986, Article 11). The council also specifies the measures for issuing aquaculture certificates. Accordingly, fisheries management policies are implemented in a top-down manner. For example, when the Fisheries Bureau releases a new policy, the policy is first implemented by the state government, then by provincial and city governments.

Policy decisions are reflected in marine area usage plans, which address details of implementation. Local fisheries administrative bodies collaborate in the preparation of marine area usage plans, following policy requirements related to marine functional zoning and economic and social development (Fujian Province Sea Area Use Management Regulations 2006, Article 6). These plans must be provided to the local people’s governments for approval, and recorded by the provincial people's government. For the two UoAs, two directly relevant marine area usage plans are the ‘Plan for Aquaculture Waters and Tidal Flats in Putian City (2018-2030)’ and the ‘Plan for Aquaculture Waters and Tidal Flats in Donggang City (2018-2030).’ Hereafter these documents will be referred to as the Putian Aquaculture Plan (Putian People’s Government 2018) and the Donggang Aquaculture Plan (Donggang People’s Government 2018). Documentation relating to management of wild clam broodstock harvests from subtidal areas is more limited. The Putian Clam Association has recommended a maximum catch of 10,000 tons for wild clams relating to ecological sustainability (Taihong, pers. comm., December 2019), and there is a minimum size limit of 1.5 cm for the harvested clams (Implementation Rules of Fujian Province on Aquatic Resources Propagation and Protection, Article 5).

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Dispute management

Roles and Responsibilities

Roles and responsibilities within the Chinese fisheries management system are clearly defined and understood. The main central body charged with fisheries management is the Fisheries Bureau (渔业渔政管理局) under the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of the PRC (MARA; 中华人民共和国农业农村部). The Fisheries Bureau develops and implements fishery management policies and strategies, handles legal disputes related to foreign fisheries, and collects and analyzes fishery statistics (http://www.yyj.moa.gov.cn/jgzn/). It has multiple divisions, including an aquaculture division, fishing vessel and ports division, ocean fisheries division, resource environmental protection division, and fisheries administration division.

The Fisheries Bureau has local (provincial, prefectural, and county) administration bodies operating under its guidance to manage fisheries and aquaculture within their respective jurisdictions (Fisheries Law 1986, Article 7). Prefectural and county city bodies typically operate under the name of ‘Bureau of Ocean and Fisheries’ while provincial bodies operate under the name of ‘Department of Ocean and Fisheries.’ These fisheries administration bodies are parts of their respective local people’s governments, with their directors selected by local government leaders. They implement management measures and administer fishing licenses within their jurisdictions (Fishing License Management Regulations 2013, Article 5). The administration bodies manage Fishery Law Enforcement departments (渔业执法部门), which conduct inspections and enforce regulations.

In Putian, the regional Fisheries Bureau bodies include the Fujian Provincial Department of Ocean and Fisheries (福建省海洋与渔业局) and the Putian City Bureau of Ocean and Fisheries (莆田市海洋与渔业局). In Donggang, they include the Liaoning Provincial Department of Ocean and Fisheries (辽宁省海洋与渔业厅) and the Donggang City Bureau of Ocean and Fisheries (东港市海洋与渔业局).

In the Putian region, the Putian Aquaculture Plan (2018-2030) tasks the regional fisheries administrative body (Putian Bureau of Ocean and Fisheries) to regulate aquaculture operations and implement science-based management (Putian Aquaculture Plan, Chapter 5). The department is responsible for overseeing farming practices, product quality and safety management, as well as law enforcement relating to use of veterinary drugs (Section 14). They are also supposed to control aquaculture density based on scientifically-determined carrying capacity, and minimize pollution risks through waste management and monitoring of aquaculture pollution (Section 15). ). The Putian Bureau of Ocean and Fisheries is also responsible for managing wild capture fisheries, presumably including the subtidal fishery for wild Manila clam.

In the Donggang region, the Donggang Aquaculture Plan (2018-2030) states that the local fishery administration body (Donggang City Bureau of Ocean and Fisheries) is responsible for supervision and enforcement of laws relating to the usage and quality of seedlings, medicines, and feed in aquaculture production (Section 14). This enforcement role includes handling violations that negatively affect the interests of farmers and fishermen. The people’s government at the regional level has the authority

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Academic and scientific research institutes conduct research and make scientific recommendations to government departments. These institutes include the Fujian Normal University Institute of Bioengineering and Liaoning Ocean and Fisheries Science Research Institute. For example, the Fujian Normal University Institute of Bioengineering collaborated with the Fujian Provincial Department of Marine and Fisheries to develop the ‘Clam Comprehensive Standards’ mentioned in the Strategy of Aquaculture document (Zeng 2018). These include a standard for seedling production in Fujian province (福建的育苗标准).

Industry associations inform and advise fishermen about fisheries technology, policies, and regulations. These associations receive guidance from local governments and assist with enforcement of regulations. Relevant associations for the UoA include the Putian Clam Association, Donggang Fishery Association and Donggang Yellow Sea Marine Products Association. Association members are required to meet certain obligations, such as the following described in the Donggang Yellow Sea Marine Products Association Rules (Article 11, p. 4):

“Members of the aquaculture industry should use approved seedlings and take necessary genetic and disease management measures to avoid environmental and ecological risks. They should regularly monitor the quality of the substrate in culture area to ensure that it remains healthy, report and take appropriate action when signs of degradation of benthic habitats appears, avoid capturing other unnecessary species, and report and take appropriate action when unnecessary bycatch occurs.”

Industry association members who commit serious violations of rules may lose their memberships.

8.6.1.2 Fishery-Specific Management

Objectives for the Fishery

China relies heavily on global fishery resources for food, jobs, and economic support and has actively prioritized development of its fishing and aquaculture industries. The Fisheries Bureau, on behalf of the State Council, sets overarching fisheries goals and objectives every five years within the Five-Year Plan for Economic and Social Development of the People’s Republic of China. Currently, the 13th Five- Year Plan (2016 to 2020) 2 is in place. Following a negotiation and consultation process, local governments take on relevant portions of the plan to implement. Local regions, including Putian City and Donggang City, have their own five-year plans, which reflect guidance and language within the central government’s Five-Year Plan. The five-year plans are used to inform local fisheries and aquaculture development plans, such as the Putian and Donggang aquaculture plans.

2 http://en.ndrc.gov.cn/newsrelease/201612/P020161207645765233498.pdf

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The national and regional Five-Year Plans describe broad objectives relating to environmental, economic, and social sustainability, including development of a strong marine economy. For fisheries specifically, there are objectives to consolidate and upgrade modern fisheries and develop marine aquaculture (13th Five Year Plan 2016, Chapter 41). The Chinese government subsidizes projects within these priorities, with the Fisheries Bureau being the main subsidy administrator. As their name implies, five-year plans are revised every five years.

Some fishery-specific management objectives are contained within the Putian and Donggang aquaculture plans. These objectives include consideration of relevant laws such as the Fisheries Law and the Law on Marine Environment Protection, as well as policies such as the Marine Functional Zoning documents for each province (Donggang Aquaculture Plan 2018, Section 4, Article 1).

The objectives for the Putian Aquaculture Plan (2018-2030) are as follows (Chapter 1, Section 3, p. 3): • Define the functional areas of aquaculture waters and tidal flats, and scientifically demarcate the forbidden areas, limited areas and cultivation areas. Adjust and plan the layout of aquaculture production, and promote the healthy and sustainable development of the aquaculture industry. • Control the scale and density of aquaculture, promote ecological farming, and protect and improve the ecological environment of aquaculture waters. • Set the baseline for development, safeguard the rights and interests of fishermen and their households, and improve the management system of aquaculture. Ensure environmental and ecological safety, product quality and safety, efficiency, green development, and wealthy fishermen. • Develop ecological fisheries, recreational fisheries, and commercial fisheries. Improve industry competitiveness and establish modern farming and fisheries through new patterns.

The objectives for the Donggang Aquaculture Plan (2018-2030) are similar to those for the Putian plan, and are described as follows (Chapter 1, Section 3, p. 6): • Make clear the scope of functional areas of aquaculture waters and tidal flats, and guide the arrangements of aquaculture production. • Make reasonable planning of arrangements for aquaculture production in waters and tidal flats and promote the sustainable development of aquaculture industry. • Improve the aquaculture management system, effectively safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of culturists, and protect important aquaculture waters and resources according to law. • Control the scale of aquaculture, promote healthy and ecological farming models, and protect the ecological environment of waters. • Adjust the composition of aquacultured species, develop a carbon-sink fishery, and give priority to breeding of Manila clam (Ruditapes philippinarum), Chinese razor clam (Sinonovacula constricta), Asiatic hard clam (Meretrix meretrix), Chinese mactra clam (Mactra chinensis) and other native species.

The reference to a carbon-sink fishery in the fifth objective relates to scientific findings that bivalve culture may act as a carbon sink and help mitigate eutrophication in coastal waters (Qi et al. 2012).

In summary, objectives are explicitly described at multiple levels of management, and they cover economic, social, and environmental areas. However, the assessment team was not provided with any fishery-specific management objectives relating to harvest of Manila clams from the wild stocks in Putian, either generally or specifically for use as broodstock.

Fisheries Regulations to Meet Objectives

Regulations related to zoning and aquaculture

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China has a marine functional zoning (MFZ) system which is defined in the Law of the People's Republic of China on the Administration of Sea Areas (2001). Under this system, functional zones for different types of human activities are designated based on geographical and ecological features, natural resources, existing usage, and needs for socioeconomic development. MFZ currently serves as the basis for marine development planning, as well as marine resource protection and management.

Under the MFZ system, users pay to ‘lease’ sea areas for a variety of uses. Leases have a maximum duration depending on the use (Law of the PRC on the Administration of the Use of Sea Areas 2001, Article 25): • 15 years for aquaculture; • 20 years for ship breaking; • 25 years for tourism and recreation; • 30 years for salt and mineral industries; • 40 years for public welfare undertakings; • 50 years for construction projects such as ports and shipyards.

Both Fujian and Liaoning provinces have MFZ documents that specify how sea areas within their jurisdictions are zoned and lay out objectives related to zoning. For example, the Fujian Province MFZ document 2011-2020 has objectives to improve compliance for industrial enterprises and urban sewage treatment, protect coastal wetlands and marine ecosystems, and carry out remediation and repair of the coastal zone. It also describes a special environmental protection area around Meizhou Bay Island (Articles 19 and 32), which is potentially relevant to the Putian element of the fishery. In Liaoning Province, there is a Yalu River Estuary National Wetland Reserve (Figure 10).

Figure 10. Yalu River Estuary Wetland Reserve Functional Zoning (adjusted in 2013). Figure from WWF and Panasonic.

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Of relevance for clam fisheries, intertidal zones are divided into three categories: 1. Aquaculture prohibited zones (禁养区), where aquaculture activities are prohibited. Examples include first-grade drinking water sources, national marine protected areas, areas relevant to public safety such as ports, and waters where toxic substances exceed specified standards. 2. Aquaculture restricted zones (限养区), where some aquaculture is allowed but is subject to additional restrictions compared to aquaculture zones. These may include experimental areas in natural reserves and key public natural waters. Pollution control measures and restrictions on the total area that can be used for aquaculture apply. 3. Aquaculture zones (养殖区), where aquaculture is allowed. These are divided into mariculture and freshwater culture areas. Mariculture areas include tidal flats and offshore culture.

A ‘certificate of tidal flat culture’ is required to use tidal flats for aquaculture (Notice of the Strengthening Work on assuring and Issuing of Tidal Flat Culture Certificate by Office of Donggang Municipal City 2004). Individuals or groups apply to obtain these certificates, and successful applicants must pay a fee to the Oceans and Fisheries Bureau. These state-issued aquaculture certificates serve as legal evidence that the producer uses coastal waters or tidal flats for aquaculture production. Certificate holders may receive benefits relating to investment, taxation, technical services, disease prevention, and training and education (Ministry of Agriculture Notice on the ‘Complete tidal flats aquaculture certificate system pilot project’ 2002). If producers lose access to beach sites due to national construction and other projects, or pollution, they can apply for compensation using the aquaculture certificate. Producers must hold an aquaculture certificate to apply for approval of seed production and breeding. Certificate holders shall abide by relevant laws and regulations (Ministry of Agriculture Notice 2002, p. 4). Local people's governments at or above the county level shall give priority to local fishery producers when issuing breeding certificates (PRC Fisheries Law 1986, Chapter II, Article 12).

Additional Regulations for the Putian element

The Fujian Province Sea Area Use Management Regulations (2006, amended in 2016) describe measures for managing environmental impacts from marine activities, including fisheries and aquaculture. The regulations also describe specific fines and penalties, which are applied if a violation is not corrected within the time limit specified by the regulatory authority. For example, if an individual does not obtain proper certificates to engage in use of a sea area, they may be fined 5,000 to 30,000 yuan and are liable to provide compensation if losses are incurred by other parties as result (Article 36). If an individual arbitrarily uses a sea area for something other than the designated purpose, they may be fined and lose the right to use that area (Article 37).

Additional Regulations for the Donggang element

The Donggang Aquaculture Plan (2018) describes some measures relating to Manila clam specifically (Sections 15 and 16). Translocated clams, such as those originating from the Putian element, should be raised in the subtidal zone, not in the intertidal zone where local seedlings are raised. Breeding should be conducted according to the planned area for seeding, and areas that are harvested and stocked should be rotated, e.g. by year. Habitats of Manila clam should be surveyed systematically, and measures should be taken to prevent hybridization between local and translocated clams, including evaluation of genetic risks.

Fishing and vessel regulations

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Vessels and crew involved in the clam fishery must be licensed and certified. Under China’s licensing system, fishing vessels are classified by size (length and engine power), and fishing areas are roughly categorized by location and management authority (Class A = mobile fishing grounds, Class B = areas managed jointly through bilateral agreements between China and other countries, Class C = areas under China’s jurisdiction, Class D = high seas). Licenses specify the vessel size and area of operation; vessels cannot operate outside of their specified boundaries. Local fishery administrative departments control the quantity and power of fishing vessels within their jurisdictions (Fishing License Management Regulations 2013, Article 20). Crew members need to meet technical competency requirements to obtain certification (Rule on Certification for Crews of Seagoing Fishing Vessels of PRC, 2006).

Marine and inland fishery licenses are issued for five years, and other types of fishing licenses have varying durations of up to 3 years (Fishing License Management Regulations 2013, Article 32). Licenses are subject to review for compliance once per year (every two years for high seas licenses), where MARA authorities check the following (Articles 33 and 34): • Validity of the Fishing Vessel Inspection Certificate and Fishing Vessel Registration (Nationality) Certificate; • Fishing gear type and number, operational periods and locations and consistency with license contents; • Fishing logbooks are filled out according to regulations, and any specified quotas or limits are not exceeded; • Any violations associated with the vessel have been resolved; • Required fishery resource protection fees have been paid; • Other conditions are compliant with relevant regulations.

If there are any non-compliance issues identified, the authorities may order the licensee to correct the issue within a specific time limit. If the issues are resolved within the time limit, the license remains valid; otherwise penalties may be applied. These penalties may include confiscation of fishing gear, license revocation, and fines (Fisheries Law, 1986; Chapter V).

In the case of the Yalu Estuary Manila Clam fishery, the medium or large vessels that are used to harvest broodstock and market-sized clams must fish outside the 12 nautical mile zone and have a Vessel Monitoring System (VMS) aboard (Cappell 2019). Most of the boats used to harvest seedlings in Putian are small artisanal vessels used within the producers’ leased tidal flats, and do not need licenses to operate. Nevertheless, all vessels within the fishery have licenses and have met crew certification requirements. Compliance is thought to be high, and there is no evidence of systematic non-compliance.

Access Rights

In terms of access, this fishery requires vessel licenses and land leases. The Fujian Province Sea Area Use Management Regulations (2006) describe how individuals and groups can apply to use sea areas for fisheries and aquaculture. They submit application materials to the marine administrative department of the local people's government at or above the county level. The materials must include a report on how the area will be used and artificially altered (where applicable), as well as an environmental impact assessment report (Fujian Sea Area Use Regulations 2006, Articles 8 and 10). The marine administrative department notifies the town or village adjacent to the sea area and makes information on the proposed usage public for five days (Fujian Sea Area Use Regulations 2006, Article 14). If there is no objection to the proposed usage within those five days, the application may be approved. If there is any objection to the proposal, the application shall be reviewed.

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Applicants must be local, i.e. living within the jurisdiction (e.g. province?) of the sea area. The right to use a sea area for aquaculture lasts for 15 years, and that right may be legally inherited, transferred, mortgaged or leased during that period (Fujian Sea Area Use Regulations 2006, Articles 24 and 25). Where a sea area falls under the jurisdiction of a coastal rural collective economic organization or village committee, the organization or committee can prioritize contracting rights to its members (Law of the PRC on the Administration of the Use of Sea Areas 2001, Article 22). Rights holders are supposed to use the sea area for prescribed purposes, and shall not arbitrarily change the approved sea use type and sea area use, and shall not damage the marine ecological environment (Fujian Sea Area Use Regulations 2006, Article 30).

Review and Audit of the Management Plan

The current Putian and Donggang Aquaculture Plans are scheduled to be in effect from 2018 to 2030, indicating periodic revision and review. The plans are developed in consultation with other government departments and bureaus. For example, the Putian plan was developed with the Fujian Provincial Department of Oceans and Fisheries, the Provincial Port Authority of Meizhou Bay, the Municipal Land and Resources Bureau, the Urban and Rural Planning Bureau, the Development and Reform Commission, the Environmental Protection Bureau, the Agricultural Bureau, the Water Resources Bureau, the Putian Maritime Safety Administration, the Tourism Bureau, the Science and Technology Bureau, Port and Haiphong Office, the Public Security Frontier Detachment, the Provincial Public Security Frontier Corps Marine Police Second Detachment, and the Municipal Bureau of Aquaculture Planning and Production.

Plan developers consulted with a technical steering committee, groups aiming to revitalize rural areas, industry associations, and the county and district governments (administrative committees) along with their marine and fishery administrative departments. Discussions were held during the planning process, and feedback considered for plan development.

8.6.1.3 Area of Operation and Relevant Jurisdictions

Putian City, Fujian Province (Putian element) The area of operation for the Putian element is within the jurisdiction of Putian City, Fujian Province, China. Manila clam seeds are produced from wild broodstock collected from natural sea areas near Putian and Fuqing cities. Broodstock are induced to spawn in culture ponds, locally, where the spat grow from August to November or December to a shell size of 1 to 1.5 mm. The spat (locally called sand seed) are then moved to natural marine rearing areas in Meizhou, Pinghai, and Xinghau bays (see Figure 2 and Figure 3, earlier in the report), in the lower to mid-intertidal zone, where the seed grows to 8-10 mm in size (locally called white seed). Following phytosanitary certification, some of this white seed is transferred by refrigerated truck and cargo ships to Donggang City for grow-out. The remainder is grown out before being collected and returned to the wild broodstock / nursery areas.

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Figure 11. Map of the seed production area (Putian Element). From the FIP Action Plan by Cappell (2018).

Donggang City, Liaoning Province (Donggang element) The area of operation for Donggang element is within the jurisdiction of Donggang City, a country- level municipality in Liaoning Province, China (Figure 12). Seed originating from Putian is placed in subtidal waters of the Yalu Estuary in the 0-10 m bathymetric zone, and allowed to grow for 24 to 30 months before being harvested.

Figure 12. The clam production area (Donggang Element).

8.6.1.4 Recognized Interest Groups

Recognized groups with interest in the UoAs include:

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Government Relevance to clam fisheries Ocean and Fisheries Bureaus and Departments Management of fisheries and aquaculture, including policy • UoA 1: Fujian Province, Putian Municipality • UoA 2: Liaoning Province, Donggang Municipality development, monitoring, and enforcement

环境影响评价与排放管理司 (Environmental Impact Environmental risk assessments, protected areas Assessment and Emissions Management Division) • UoA 1: Fujian Province • UoA 2: Liaoning Province

Industry associations Relevance to clam fisheries The China Aquatic Products Processing and Marketing Represents industry interests at national Alliance (CAPPMA) and international levels, has a Manila clam group Donggang Marine Fisheries and Aquaculture Industry association Association Donggang Yellow Sea Marine Products Association Industry association Putian Clam Association Association for clam producers in UoA 1 Environmental stakeholders Relevance to clam fisheries WWF China FIP lead, Yalu River Estuary Coastal Area Ecosystem-Based Management Demonstration Project WWF Japan FIP participant MSC China Local MSC office Academic and research institutes Relevance to clam fisheries Dalian Ocean University Research expertise with Manila clam Liaoning Ocean and Fisheries Science Research Ocean development and conservation Institute strategy, Yalu River Estuary Coastal Area Ecosystem-Based Management Demonstration Project

Fujian Fisheries Research Institute (福建省水产研究 Research relating to aquaculture and fisheries 所) Fujian Normal University Institute of Bioengineering Clam standards development Other stakeholders Relevance to clam fisheries Taihong Group Co. Ltd Client for this assessment Nichirei Buyer of Manila clams

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There are reportedly no indigenous peoples or minority groups involved with the UoA’s clam fishing industries. Industry groups and associations work closely with government bodies.

Several of the listed interest groups have been involved in a fishery improvement project (FIP) for this clam fishery, and they plan to continue to support and cooperate with the fishery as it undergoes the MSC Certification process.

8.6.1.5 Arrangements for On-going Consultations

Management regulations and plans developed through consultation with multiple government departments at multiple levels, as well as other stakeholders.

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8.7 Principle 3 Performance Indicator scores and rationales

PI 3.1.1 – Legal and/or customary framework PI 3.1.1 The management system exists within an appropriate legal and/or customary framework which ensures that it: - Is capable of delivering sustainability in the UoA(s); - Observes the legal rights created explicitly or established by custom of people dependent on fishing for food or livelihood; and - Incorporates an appropriate dispute resolution framework Scoring Issue SG 60 SG 80 SG 100

a Compatibility of laws or standards with effective management

Guide There is an effective There is an effective There is an effective post national legal system and a national legal system and national legal system and framework for cooperation organised and effective binding procedures with other parties, where cooperation with other governing cooperation necessary, to deliver parties, where necessary, to with other parties which management outcomes deliver management delivers management consistent with MSC outcomes consistent with outcomes consistent with Principles 1 and 2 MSC Principles 1 and 2. MSC Principles 1 and 2.

Met? Yes Yes Yes

Rationale

China has actively prioritized development of its fishing and aquaculture industries and has an extensive, complex legal system and framework for fisheries management. At the international level, China is party to multiple agreements and mechanisms for international cooperation relating to fisheries management. China ratified the United National Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) in 1996 and has bilateral fisheries agreements with Japan, South Korea, and Vietnam (Huang and He 2019). The country became party to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) in 1981. China is a member of multiple regional fisheries management organizations (RFMOs) such as the North Pacific Fisheries Commission. The Law of the People's Republic of China on Its Territorial Seas and Adjacent Zones (1992) provides a legal basis for the country to exercise sovereignty over its territorial seas and some adjacent zones, to safeguard the state's safety and marine rights and interests. The Fisheries Law of the PRC (1986, amended 2004) outlines the hierarchical structure of fisheries management. The Fisheries Bureau under the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of the PRC (MARA) is the main body responsible for fisheries management. The Fisheries Bureau develops and implements fishery management policies and strategies, handles foreign fishery disputes, and collects and analyses fishery statistics (MARA 2019). It has multiple divisions, including aquaculture, fishing vessel and ports, ocean fisheries, resource environmental protection, and fisheries administration divisions. The Fisheries Bureau has local (provincial, prefectural, and county) administration bodies operating under its guidance to manage regional fisheries and aquaculture operations (Fisheries Law 1986, Article 7). The multi-level and multi-division management framework has the capacity and coverage to effectively deliver management outcomes consistent with MSC Principles 1 and 2. There are binding procedures governing cooperation with other parties. b Resolution of disputes

Guide The management system The management system The management system post incorporates or is subject by incorporates or is subject by incorporates or is subject

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law to a mechanism for the law to a transparent by law to a transparent resolution of legal disputes mechanism for the mechanism for the arising within the system. resolution of legal disputes resolution of legal disputes which is considered to be that is appropriate to the effective in dealing with context of the fishery and most issues and that is has been tested and appropriate to the context proven to be effective. of the UoA. Met? Yes Yes No

Rationale

When a dispute arises between two parties over usage of water areas or tidal flats designated for aquaculture, local people’s governments are supposed to handle the dispute in accordance with prescribed legal procedures (Fisheries Law 1989, Article 13). These mechanisms may be considered effective because unresolved legal disputes appear uncommon, but the Assessment Team does not have proof of effectiveness. c Respect for rights

Guide The management system The management system The management system post has a mechanism to has a mechanism to has a mechanism to generally respect the legal observe the legal rights formally commit to the rights created explicitly or created explicitly or legal rights created established by custom of established by custom of explicitly or established by people dependent on people dependent on custom of people fishing for food or fishing for food or dependent on fishing for livelihood in a manner livelihood in a manner food and livelihood in a consistent with the consistent with the manner consistent with the objectives of MSC Principles objectives of MSC Principles objectives of MSC 1 and 2. 1 and 2. Principles 1 and 2. Met? Yes Yes Yes

Rationale

The Fisheries Law (1986) explicitly states a mandate to ensure fishery workers’ legal rights and interests. The obligation to safeguard these rights and fisher’s livelihoods are described in multiple management documents, including the Putian and Donggang Aquaculture Plans (Donggang People’s Government 2018, Putian People’s Government 2018). When planning marine functional zones and designating how specific areas will be used, local conditions (natural, economic, social, technological, etc.) are to be considered via consultation of expert groups (MARA 2002, Appendix I). Aquaculture certificate holders can receive preferential investment, technical services, disease prevention, training and education, and can apply for compensation if their waters are negatively affected by national construction and other projects, or by pollution (MARA 2002). Certificates are obtained through an application process, and it is understood that local residents are to be prioritized when local people’s governments issue certificates (Fisheries Law 1986, Chapter II, Article 12). References

Donggang People’s Government. 2018. Plan for Aquaculture Waters and Tidal Flats in Donggang City (2018- 2030). Fisheries Law of the PRC. 1986 (amended 2004). http://extwprlegs1.fao.org/docs/pdf/chn23913E.pdf

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Huang, S., and He, Y. 2019. Management of China's capture fisheries: Review and prospect. Aquaculture and Fisheries. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aaf.2019.05.004

MARA. 2002. Notice on the ‘Complete tidal flats aquaculture certificate system pilot project.’ (农业部关于发《完善水域滩涂养殖证制度试行方案》的通知)

MARA. Website accessed 2019. Fisheries Bureau: institutional responsibilities and organization. http://www.yyj.moa.gov.cn/jgzn/ Putian People’s Government. 2018. Plan for Aquaculture Waters and Tidal Flats in Putian City (2018-2030). Draft scoring range and information gap indicator added at Announcement Comment Draft Report

Draft scoring range ≥80

Information gap indicator In particular, more information will be sought during consultation on how legal disputes are handled. Overall Performance Indicator scores added from Client and Peer Review Draft Report

Overall Performance Indicator score

Condition number (if relevant)

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PI 3.1.2 – Consultation, roles and responsibilities PI 3.1.2 The management system has effective consultation processes that are open to interested and affected parties The roles and responsibilities of organisations and individuals who are involved in the management process are clear and understood by all relevant parties

Scoring Issue SG 60 SG 80 SG 100

a Roles and responsibilities

Guide Organisations and Organisations and Organisations and post individuals involved in the individuals involved in the individuals involved in the management process have management process have management process have been identified. Functions, been identified. Functions, been identified. Functions, roles and responsibilities roles and responsibilities roles and responsibilities are generally understood. are explicitly defined and are explicitly defined and well understood for key well understood for all areas of responsibility and areas of responsibility and interaction. interaction. Met? Yes Yes Yes

Rationale

Roles and responsibilities are explicitly defined and well understood. The State Council, also referred to as the Central People’s Government, is the chief administrative authority of the PRC. The State Council oversees ministries and commissions, including MARA. Through MARA and the Fisheries Bureau, the State Council develops plans for how coastal waters and tidal flats will be used, including determination of the areas that can be used for aquaculture (Fisheries Law 1986, Article 11). The council also specifies the measures for issuing aquaculture certificates. The Fisheries Bureau develops and implements fishery management policies and strategies, handles foreign fishery disputes, and collects and analyzes fishery statistics (MARA 2019). It has multiple divisions, including aquaculture, fishing vessel and ports, ocean fisheries, resource environmental protection, and fisheries administration divisions. The Fisheries Bureau has local (provincial, prefectural, and county) administration bodies operating under its guidance to manage regional fisheries and aquaculture operations (Fisheries Law 1986, Article 7). These regional Ocean and Fishery bureaus and departments are parts of their respective local people’s governments, with their directors selected by local government leaders. They implement management measures and administer fishing licenses within their jurisdictions (Fishing License Management Regulations 2013, Article 5). For aquaculture operations including the clam fisheries, they oversee production practices and enforce regulations (Donggang People’s Government 2018, Section 14; Putian People’s Government 2018, Section 14). The regional bureaus and departments also oversee management of wild capture fisheries. Some fishery related duties fall under other ministries. For instance, the Ministry of Ecology and Environment is tasked with protecting air, water, and land from pollution, while the Ministry of Transport is responsible for supervising and inspecting fishing vessels (Center for American Progress 2018). Academic and scientific research institutes conduct research and make scientific recommendations to government departments. For the UoAs, these institutes include the Fujian Normal University Institute of Bioengineering and Liaoning Ocean and Fisheries Science Research Institute. For example, the Fujian Normal University Institute of Bioengineering collaborated with the Fujian Provincial Department of Marine and Fisheries to develop ‘Clam Comprehensive Standards’ (Zeng 2018). Industry associations inform and advise fishermen about fisheries technology, policies, and regulations. These associations have formal government recognition and receive guidance from local governments at various levels, including provincial and county levels. Members are required to meet certain obligations,

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including compliance with rules and legal regulations, and may lose membership if they commit serious violations (see Donggang Marine Fisheries and Aquaculture Association, Donggang Yellow Sea Products Industry Association, Putian Clam Association charters). b Consultation processes

Guide The management system The management system The management system post includes consultation includes consultation includes consultation processes that obtain processes that regularly processes that regularly relevant information from seek and accept relevant seek and accept relevant the main affected parties, information, including local information, including local including local knowledge, knowledge. The knowledge. The to inform the management management system management system system. demonstrates demonstrates consideration of the consideration of the information obtained. information and explains how it is used or not used. Met? Yes No No

Rationale

Aquaculture management plans are developed in consultation with other government departments and bureaus, and some feedback is sought from other stakeholders. For example, the Putian plan was developed with the Fujian Provincial Department of Oceans and Fisheries, the Putian Maritime Safety Administration, the Tourism Bureau, the Science and Technology Bureau, the Public Security Frontier Detachment, and the Municipal Bureau of Aquaculture Planning and Production (Putian People’s Government 2018). The plan developers consulted with a technical steering committee, groups aiming to revitalize rural areas, industry associations, and the county and district governments (administrative committees) along with their marine and fishery administrative departments. Discussions were held during the planning process, and feedback considered for plan development. However, the government documents the Assessment Team received did not explain how information was used or not used. c Participation

Guide The consultation process The consultation process post provides opportunity for all provides opportunity and interested and affected encouragement for all parties to be involved. interested and affected parties to be involved, and facilitates their effective engagement. Met? No No

Rationale

Management documents such as the aquaculture management plans provide opportunity for government and industry stakeholders to be involved in plan development. However, it is unclear whether there are opportunities for other stakeholders, such as groups with environmental interests, to provide feedback. There are opportunities for consultation regarding sea area leasing decisions. If an individual applies to lease an area for aquaculture or other use, the marine administrative department notifies the town or village adjacent to the sea area and makes information on the proposed usage public for five days (Fujian Provincial People’s Congress 2006, Article 14). If there is no objection to the proposed usage within those five days, the application may be approved. If there is any objection to the proposal, the application shall be reviewed.

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The assessment team received no information on opportunities for stakeholder input into more immediate management decisions, such as year-to-year decisions on clam stocking levels. Thus, it could not be confirmed whether all interested parties have opportunity to be involved in consultation processes. References

Center for American Progress. 2018. Appendix 2: Overview of China Ocean Governance, Briefing for Participants of Blue Future 2017. https://cdn.americanprogress.org/content/uploads/2018/05/18120801/BlueFuture-Appendix2-5.pdf Donggang Marine Fisheries and Aquaculture Association. Undated. Donggang Marine Fisheries and Aquaculture Association Charter. Donggang People’s Government. 2018. Plan for Aquaculture Waters and Tidal Flats in Donggang City (2018- 2030). Donggang Yellow Sea Products Industry Association. Undated. Donggang Yellow Sea Products Industry Association Charter. Fisheries Law of the PRC. 1986 (amended 2004). http://extwprlegs1.fao.org/docs/pdf/chn23913E.pdf Fujian Provincial People’s Congress. 2006. Fujian Province Sea Area Use Management Regulations. http://www.fujian.gov.cn/zc/flfg/dfxfg/201604/t20160419_1200350.htm MARA. Website accessed 2019. Fisheries Bureau: institutional responsibilities and organization. http://www.yyj.moa.gov.cn/jgzn/ Putian Clam Association. Undated. Putian Clam Association Charter. Putian People’s Government. 2018. Plan for Aquaculture Waters and Tidal Flats in Putian City (2018-2030). Zeng, Z. 2018. The Strategy of Aquaculture (Harvesting) for Manila Clam in Putian, Fujian Province. Draft scoring range and information gap indicator added at Announcement Comment Draft Report

Draft scoring range 60-75

Information gap indicator In particular, more information will be sought during consultation on the stakeholder consultations processes held with regard to aquaculture management plans and/or production standards. Specifically, are there consultation opportunities for non-governmental stakeholders, including farmers/fishers? Are industry voices conveyed effectively through the industry associations? And how effective and transparent are the feedback processes?

Overall Performance Indicator scores added from Client and Peer Review Draft Report Overall Performance Indicator score

Condition number (if relevant)

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PI 3.1.3 – Long term objectives PI 3.1.3 The management policy has clear long-term objectives to guide decision-making that are consistent with MSC Fisheries Standard, and incorporates the precautionary approach

Scoring Issue SG 60 SG 80 SG 100

a Objectives

Guide Long-term objectives to Clear long-term objectives Clear long-term objectives post guide decision-making, that guide decision-making, that guide decision-making, consistent with the MSC consistent with MSC consistent with MSC Fisheries Standard and the Fisheries Standard and the Fisheries Standard and the precautionary approach, precautionary approach are precautionary approach, are implicit within explicit within management are explicit within and management policy. policy. required by management policy. Met? Yes Yes Yes

Rationale

The Fisheries Bureau, on behalf of the State Council, sets overarching fisheries goals and objectives every five years within the Five-Year Plan for Economic and Social Development of the People’s Republic of China. Currently, the 13th Five-Year Plan (2016 to 2020) is in place. Following a negotiation and consultation process, local governments take on relevant portions of the plan to implement. The portions they implement are described in local Five-Year plans, which reflect guidance and language within the central government’s plan. The Five-Year Plan describes broad objectives relating to environmental, economic, and social sustainability, including development of a strong marine economy, or blue economy, stated as follows (CPC Central Committee 2016, Chapter 41): “We will pursue coordinated land and marine development, develop the marine economy, effectively develop marine resources, protect marine ecosystems and habitats, and safeguard China’s maritime rights and interests, building China into a strong maritime country.” The Five-Year plan includes a reference to controlling the intensity of fishing and enforcement of a fishing prohibition period (CPC Central Committee 2016). Other management documents, including the Putian and Donggang Aquaculture plans (Donggang People’s Government 2018, Putian People’s Government 2018), also explicitly state objectives that are consistent with the MSC Fisheries Standard and a precautionary approach. References

Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee. 2016. The 13th Five-Year Plan (2016-2020) for Economic and Social Development of the People’s Republic of China. English translation available at: http://en.ndrc.gov.cn/newsrelease/201612/P020161207645765233498.pdf Donggang People’s Government. 2018. Plan for Aquaculture Waters and Tidal Flats in Donggang City (2018- 2030). Putian People’s Government. 2018. Plan for Aquaculture Waters and Tidal Flats in Putian City (2018-2030). Draft scoring range and information gap indicator added at Announcement Comment Draft Report

Draft scoring range ≥80

Information gap indicator Information is sufficient to score PI.

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Overall Performance Indicator scores added from Client and Peer Review Draft Report

Overall Performance Indicator score

Condition number (if relevant)

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PI 3.2.1 – Fishery-specific objectives PI 3.2.1 The fishery-specific management system has clear, specific objectives designed to achieve the outcomes expressed by MSC’s Principles 1 and 2 Scoring Issue SG 60 SG 80 SG 100

a Objectives

Guide Objectives, which are Short and long-term Well defined and post broadly consistent with objectives, which are measurable short and long- achieving the outcomes consistent with achieving term objectives, which are expressed by MSC’s the outcomes expressed by demonstrably consistent Principles 1 and 2, are MSC’s Principles 1 and 2, with achieving the outcomes implicit within the fishery- are explicit within the expressed by MSC’s specific management fishery-specific Principles 1 and 2, are system. management system. explicit within the fishery- specific management system. Met? Yes – Putian element No – Putian element No – Putian element Yes – Donggang element Yes – Donggang element No – Donggang element Rationale

Clear short and long-term management objectives are contained within the aquaculture plans for Putian and Donggang. These objectives include consideration of relevant laws such as the Fisheries Law and the Law on Marine Environment Protection, as well as policies such as the Marine Functional Zoning documents for the associated province. The plans mention the need to manage resources in an ecologically sustainable manner and are consistent with achieving the outcomes expressed by MSC’s Principles 1 and 2. The objectives for the Putian Aquaculture Plan (2018-2030) are as follows (Putian People’s Government 2018, Chapter 1, Section 3, p. 3): • Define the functional areas of aquaculture waters and tidal flats, and scientifically demarcate the forbidden areas, limited areas and cultivation areas. Adjust and plan the layout of aquaculture production, and promote the healthy and sustainable development of the aquaculture industry. • Control the scale and density of aquaculture, promote ecological farming, and protect and improve the ecological environment of aquaculture waters. • Set the baseline for development, safeguard the rights and interests of fishermen and their households, and improve the management system of aquaculture. Ensure environmental and ecological safety, product quality and safety, efficiency, green development, and wealthy fishermen. • Develop ecological fisheries, recreational fisheries, and commercial fisheries. Improve industry competitiveness and establish modern farming and fisheries through new patterns. The objectives for the Donggang Aquaculture Plan (2018-2030) are similar and described as follows (Donggang People’s Government 2018, Chapter 1, Section 3, p. 6): • Make clear the scope of functional areas of aquaculture waters and tidal flats, and guide the arrangements of aquaculture production. • Make reasonable planning of arrangements for aquaculture production in waters and tidal flats and promote the sustainable development of aquaculture industry. • Improve the aquaculture management system, effectively safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of culturists, and protect important aquaculture waters and resources according to law. • Control the scale of aquaculture, promote healthy and ecological farming models, and protect the ecological environment of waters. • Adjust the composition of aquacultured species, develop a carbon-sink fishery, and give priority to breeding of Manila clam (Ruditapes philippinarum), Chinese razor clam (Sinonovacula

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constricta), Asiatic hard clam (Meretrix meretrix), Chinese mactra clam (Mactra chinensis) and other native species. The Assessment Team was provided with limited information relating to fishery-specific management of wild Manila clam stocks in Putian. Specifically, the Putian Clam Association has recommended a maximum catch of 10,000 tons for wild clams relating to ecological sustainability (Taihong, pers. comm., December 2019), and there is a minimum size limit of 1.5 cm for the harvested clams (Implementation Rules of Fujian Province on Aquatic Resources Propagation and Protection, Article 5). The presence of these harvest measures suggest implicit objectives consistent with achieving MSC Principle 1 and 2 outcomes, but the team has not seen evidence of explicit objectives for the wild stocks. References

Donggang People’s Government. 2018. Plan for Aquaculture Waters and Tidal Flats in Donggang City (2018- 2030). Fujian Province. Implementation Rules of Fujian Province on Aquatic Resources Propagation and Protection. The 13th Five-Year Plan (2016-2020) for Economic and Social Development of the People’s Republic of China. 2016. English translation available at: http://en.ndrc.gov.cn/newsrelease/201612/P020161207645765233498.pdf Putian People’s Government. 2018. Plan for Aquaculture Waters and Tidal Flats in Putian City (2018-2030). Draft scoring range and information gap indicator added at Announcement Comment Draft Report

Draft scoring range 60-79

Information gap indicator In particular, more information will be sought during consultation on explicit objectives relating to the harvest and genetic management of the wild broodstock in Putian. Overall Performance Indicator scores added from Client and Peer Review Draft Report

Overall Performance Indicator score

Condition number (if relevant)

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PI 3.2.2 – Decision-making processes PI 3.2.2 The fishery-specific management system includes effective decision-making processes that result in measures and strategies to achieve the objectives, and has an appropriate approach to actual disputes in the fishery

Scoring Issue SG 60 SG 80 SG 100

a Decision-making processes

Guide There are some decision- There are established post making processes in place decision-making processes that result in measures and that result in measures and strategies to achieve the strategies to achieve the fishery-specific objectives. fishery-specific objectives. Met? Yes No

Rationale

The management system has defined processes to develop measures and strategies for achieving objectives. The Fisheries Law, along with the Marine Environmental Protection Law of the People's Republic of China (PRC; 1982), the Law of the PRC on Prevention and Control of Water Pollution (1984) and the Environmental Protection Law of the PRC (1989), set the legal foundation for protection and management of China’s fishery and aquaculture waters and resources (Huang and He 2019). The Fisheries Law designates the Fisheries Bureau with the authority to make decisions related to fisheries management. The Fisheries Bureau develops and implements fisheries management policies in a top-down manner. For example, when the Fisheries Bureau releases a new policy, the policy is first implemented by the state government, then by provincial and city governments. This type of top-down management can be effective at meeting broad economic objectives (Cao et al. 2017). Policy decisions are reflected in marine area usage plans, which describe details of implementation. Local fisheries administrative bodies collaborate with industry associations and other stakeholders to develop these plans. For the UoA, two directly relevant marine area usage plans are the ‘Plan for Aquaculture Waters and Tidal Flats in Putian City (2018-2030)’ and the ‘Plan for Aquaculture Waters and Tidal Flats in Donggang City (2018-2030).’ However, more specific information or examples are needed to determine whether these decision-making processes can be considered established. b Responsiveness of decision-making processes

Guide Decision-making processes Decision-making processes Decision-making processes post respond to serious issues respond to serious and respond to all issues identified in relevant other important issues identified in relevant research, monitoring, identified in relevant research, monitoring, evaluation and research, monitoring, evaluation and consultation, in a evaluation and consultation, in a transparent, timely and consultation, in a transparent, timely and adaptive manner and take transparent, timely and adaptive manner and take some account of the wider adaptive manner and take account of the wider implications of decisions. account of the wider implications of decisions. implications of decisions. Met? Yes No No

Rationale

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Decision-making processes are guided by policies and systems as the Five Year Plan and the Marine Functional Zoning (MFZ) system. The Five Year plan is periodically revised and reflects serious issues identified, although in a relatively broad, non-rapid manner. The MFZ system is used to determine sea area usage based on scientific and economic considerations, and allows adaptive decision making that can be responsive to research and monitoring. These policies and systems take account of the wider implications of decisions. There appears to be transparency in at least some parts of the decision-making process; for example, sea area leasing decisions are subject to a public comment period. Outcomes of the decision-making processes can be observed in the Putian and Donggang aquaculture plans, which show that issues identified by research, such as ecological carrying capacity, are responded to (e.g. see Putian People’s Government 2018, Section 15). In addition, regional administrative bodies, such as the Putian Bureau of Ocean and Fisheries, regularly issue public notices regarding management regulations and decisions (see http://www.putian.gov.cn/zfxxgkzl/bmzfxxgk/pthyyyyj/zfxxgkzl/zfzwgkml/). However, we did not have evidence to suggest that responses are made to all issues identified in research and monitoring, particularly for the subtidal wild clam fishery. c Use of precautionary approach

Guide Decision-making processes post use the precautionary approach and are based on best available information. Met? No

Rationale

The Putian and Donggang Bureaus of Ocean and Fisheries are understood to control aquaculture density based on scientifically-determined carrying capacity, and minimize pollution risks through waste management and monitoring of aquaculture pollution (Putian People’s Government 2018, Section 15; Donggang People’s Government 2018, Section 17). This suggests that decision-making processes are somewhat information-based. However, we did not find explicit references to the precautionary principle in management documents. In addition, we received no information on decision-making processes in relation to management of wild clam stocks. d Accountability and transparency of management system and decision-making process

Guide Some information on the Information on the fishery’s Formal reporting to all post fishery’s performance and performance and interested stakeholders management action is management action is provides comprehensive generally available on available on request, and information on the fishery’s request to stakeholders. explanations are provided performance and for any actions or lack of management actions and action associated with describes how the findings and relevant management system recommendations responded to findings and emerging from research, relevant recommendations monitoring, evaluation and emerging from research, review activity. monitoring, evaluation and review activity. Met? Yes No No

Rationale

Information on the fishery’s performance and management actions can be requested by industry association, Chinese citizens, and other legal entities. For example, citizens and others can request information from the

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Putian Bureau of Ocean and Fisheries at this website: http://www.putian.gov.cn/zfxxgkzl/bmzfxxgk/pthyyyyj/zfxxgkzl/ysqgk/. Some general information is available on the Fishery Bureau’s website: http://www.yyj.moa.gov.cn/zyhb/. However, the assessment team received no evidence that explanations are provided for actions or lack of action associated with findings from research and other evaluation activity. e Approach to disputes

Guide Although the management The management system or The management system or post authority or fishery may be fishery is attempting to fishery acts proactively to subject to continuing court comply in a timely fashion avoid legal disputes or challenges, it is not with judicial decisions rapidly implements judicial indicating a disrespect or arising from any legal decisions arising from legal defiance of the law by challenges. challenges. repeatedly violating the same law or regulation necessary for the sustainability for the fishery. Met? Yes No No

Rationale

The assessment team has not been provided with any examples of court challenges that can be used to score this issue. There do not appear to be continuing court challenges to the fishery management authority, nor indications of repeated legal violations. Thus we believe SG 60 is met. There is no information suggesting that the management system would not comply with judicial decisions in a timely manner, but without evidence, SG 80 is not met. References

Cao, L., Chen, Y., Dong, S., Hanson, A., Huang, B., Leadbitter, D., ... & Sumaila, U. R. 2017. Opportunity for marine fisheries reform in China. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 114(3), 435-442. https://www.pnas.org/content/114/3/435.short Donggang People’s Government. 2018. Plan for Aquaculture Waters and Tidal Flats in Donggang City (2018- 2030). Huang, S., and He, Y. 2019. Management of China's capture fisheries: Review and prospect. Aquaculture and Fisheries. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aaf.2019.05.004 Putian People’s Government. 2018. Plan for Aquaculture Waters and Tidal Flats in Putian City (2018-2030). Draft scoring range and information gap indicator added at Announcement Comment Draft Report

Draft scoring range 60-75

Information gap indicator In particular, more information will be sought during consultation on the following: • How are decision making processes triggered, particularly for the clam fisheries themselves? • Has the management authority or fishery been subject to any court challenges?

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• Can we find more evidence of a precautionary approach? Such as a case where a management decision was made even though there was not yet clear information indicating a problem? • How much fishery information is made available on request, and who can request information?

Overall Performance Indicator scores added from Client and Peer Review Draft Report Overall Performance Indicator score

Condition number (if relevant)

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PI 3.2.3 – Compliance and enforcement PI 3.2.3 Monitoring, control and surveillance mechanisms ensure the management measures in the fishery are enforced and complied with

Scoring Issue SG 60 SG 80 SG 100

a MCS implementation

Guide Monitoring, control and A monitoring, control and A comprehensive post surveillance mechanisms surveillance system has monitoring, control and exist, and are implemented been implemented in the surveillance system has in the fishery and there is a fishery and has been implemented in the reasonable expectation demonstrated an ability to fishery and has that they are effective. enforce relevant demonstrated a consistent management measures, ability to enforce relevant strategies and/or rules. management measures, strategies and/or rules. Met? Yes Yes No

Rationale

MCS mechanisms exist and are implemented by MARA fishery administration departments in cooperation with industry associations. Every year the fishery administration department convenes a fishery regulations and training symposium that all aquaculture companies are required to attend. Department staff conduct inspections throughout the year at a high frequency. During an inspection or vessel license review, enforcement staff check items such as the following (Fujian People’s Congress 2006, Articles 33 and 34): • Fishing vessel documentation and associated certificates ; • Fishing gear type and number, operational periods and locations and consistency with license contents; • Fishing logbooks, to check that they are filled out according to regulations, and any specified quotas or limits are not exceeded; Fishing vessel documentation and associated certificates ; • No outstanding violations or unpaid fishery resource protection fees. If there are any non-compliances, the authorities may order the licensee to correct the issue within a specific time limit. If the issues are resolved within the time limit, the license remains valid; otherwise penalties may be applied. The MCS system has demonstrated an ability to enforce relevant rules and management measures, as shown by the following example. Staff of the Fisheries Law Enforcement Brigade and the Aquatic Technology Extension Station of Xiuyu District, Putian City, Fujian Province inspected the production records, medication records and sales records of 18 aquatic seedling farms in Nanri Town (Aquaculture Network website 2009). A total of 8 seedling farms were issued with rectification notices, and two other farms were penalized for not rectifying identified non-compliances within the time limit. Xiuyu District authorities conducted 78 seedling- related inspections that year, supporting the claim that inspections are frequent. However, it is uncertain whether the MCS system can be considered comprehensive. b Sanctions

Guide Sanctions to deal with non- Sanctions to deal with non- Sanctions to deal with non- post compliance exist and there compliance exist, are compliance exist, are is some evidence that they consistently applied and consistently applied and are applied. thought to provide demonstrably provide effective deterrence. effective deterrence. Met? Yes No No

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Rationale

Sanctions to deal with non-compliance exist and include fines and loss of access rights. For example, if an individual does not obtain proper certificates to engage in use of a sea area, they may be fined 5,000 to 30,000 yuan and are liable to provide compensation if losses are incurred by other parties as result (Fujian People’s Government 2006, Article 36). If an individual arbitrarily uses a sea area for something other than the designated purpose, they may be fined at a rate based on the size of the area and may lose the right to use that area (Article 37). The example about Xiuyu district described above suggests that inspections and sanctions are applied, although consistency of application is unclear. There is a high level of top-down control within Chinese fisheries management, and such sanctions thought to provide effective deterrence. However, there is insufficient evidence to claim that sanctions demonstrably provide effective deterrence. c Compliance

Guide Fishers are generally Some evidence exists to There is a high degree of post thought to comply with the demonstrate fishers comply confidence that fishers management system for with the management comply with the the fishery under system under assessment, management system under assessment, including, including, when required, assessment, including, when required, providing providing information of providing information of information of importance importance to the effective importance to the effective to the effective management of the fishery. management of the fishery. management of the fishery. Met? Yes Yes No

Rationale

Sea areas are mapped and monitored, and usage of these areas is tightly regulated. Fishing vessels carry VMS to help ensure that they operate within their licensed areas. There is substantial incentive for individuals leasing sea areas to protect the areas from unauthorized use by others, and to follow regulations so that they are not at risk of losing their leases. For these reasons, fishers are generally thought to comply with the management system for the fishery under assessment. d Systematic non-compliance

Guide There is no evidence of post systematic non-compliance. Met? Yes

Rationale

UoA vessels, crew, and fishers all hold required licenses and certificates. Fishery stakeholders indicated that non-compliance does not regularly occur. References

Aquaculture Network. 2009. Two aquatic seedling farms in Xiuyu District, Fujian Province were punished for violation of regulations. http://www.shuichan.cc/news_view-28383.html Fujian Provincial People’s Congress. 2006. Fujian Province Sea Area Use Management Regulations. http://www.fujian.gov.cn/zc/flfg/dfxfg/201604/t20160419_1200350.htm

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Draft scoring range and information gap indicator added at Announcement Comment Draft Report

Draft scoring range 60-75

Information gap indicator In particular, more information will be sought during consultation on the following: • How frequent are inspections? Is compliance thought to be high in general, not just in the UoA? • Can the Assessment Team see more details on the annual regulations and training symposium? • What information do the clam fishers provide to government authorities? For example, do they share logbooks or other data? Overall Performance Indicator scores added from Client and Peer Review Draft Report

Overall Performance Indicator score

Condition number (if relevant)

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PI 3.2.4 – Monitoring and management performance evaluation PI 3.2.4 There is a system of monitoring and evaluating the performance of the fishery-specific management system against its objectives There is effective and timely review of the fishery-specific management system

Scoring Issue SG 60 SG 80 SG 100

a Evaluation coverage

Guide There are mechanisms in There are mechanisms in There are mechanisms in post place to evaluate some place to evaluate key parts place to evaluate all parts parts of the fishery-specific of the fishery-specific of the fishery-specific management system. management system. management system. Met? Yes Yes No

Rationale

Broad fishery management strategies and goals are described within national and regional Five-Year Plans, while more specific objectives and implementation details are described in local government plans such as the Aquaculture Management Plans for Putian and Donggang cities. The Fisheries Bureau regularly reviews fishery and aquaculture performance against these development plans in consultation with industry associations (Cappell 2019). Commercial producers also produce their own development plans, which are subject to regular internal reviews but not external reviews. These plans are considered sensitive and so are not shared publicly. b Internal and/or external review

Guide The fishery-specific The fishery-specific The fishery-specific post management system is management system is management system is subject to occasional subject to regular internal subject to regular internal internal review. and occasional external and external review. review. Met? Yes Yes Yes

Rationale

The Five-Year Plans are revised every five years and are subject to both internal and external review (Cappell 2019). The Aquaculture Management plans are also subject to review by multiple government departments, as well as industry associations (Putian People’s Government, 2018). The FIP associated with this fishery included an action to establish regular internal and occasional external review processes at an appropriate timescale, which was marked as completed. Few details were provided on the review process, but it appears that the FIP stakeholders, which includes government and industry representatives, proposed to review management plans and practices. References

Blomeyer, R., Goulding, I., Pauly, D., Sanz, A., & Stobberup, K. (2012). The role of China in world fisheries. Directorate General for Internal Policies. Policy Department B: Structural and Cohesion Policies. European Parliament. Donggang People’s Government. 2018. Plan for Aquaculture Waters and Tidal Flats in Donggang City (2018- 2030).

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Huang, S., and He, Y. 2019. Management of China's capture fisheries: Review and prospect. Aquaculture and Fisheries. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aaf.2019.05.004 Cappell, R. 2019. Yalu Estuary Clam MCS Pre-assessment (Revised). Poseidon Aquatic Resource Management Ltd., 10 February 2019, 100 pp. Putian People’s Government. 2018. Plan for Aquaculture Waters and Tidal Flats in Putian City (2018-2030). Draft scoring range and information gap indicator added at Announcement Comment Draft Report

Draft scoring range ≥80

Information gap indicator In particular, more information will be sought during consultation on the following: • How and how often does the Fisheries Bureau review performance against fishery and aquaculture development plans? • Examples of development plans for commercial producers will be sought. Overall Performance Indicator scores added from Client and Peer Review Draft Report

Overall Performance Indicator score

Condition number (if relevant)

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9 Appendices

9.1 Assessment information

9.1.1 Previous assessments The Yalu Estuary Manila Clam fishery has not been subject to a previous assessment.

9.1.2 Small-scale fisheries The information presented is draft, but will be completed at the site visit.

Table 13. Small-scale fisheries Unit of Assessment (UoA) Percentage of vessels with Percentage of fishing activity length <15m completed within 12 nautical miles of shore Putian element 50% (estimated) 100%

Donggang element 100% (estimated) 100%

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9.2 Evaluation processes and techniques This version of the report is the ACDR, which has not been informed by a site visit. This is currently scheduled for November 2019, but in any case will not occur before the ACDR has been subject to a 60 day public consultation period, as announced on the MSC website (https://fisheries.msc.org/en/fisheries/).

The Assessment Team will undertake a site visit to the fishery to study the fishery and interview stakeholders (including the client, managers, scientists, enforcement personnel, local officials and other stakeholders as appropriate) based on the information needed to assess the performance of the UoAs. Before the site visit and meetings are conducted, an audit plan will be provided to the client and relevant stakeholders (Table 14).

Table 14. Audit plan: key meetings and locations (to be completed).

Meeting Date Location Topic Attendees 1 Day Month, Year City, State/Country Click here to enter text. Click here to enter text.

9.2.1 Stakeholder Participation This version of the report is the ACDR, which has not been informed by a site visit, or by any external stakeholder input.

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9.2.2 Evaluation techniques

9.2.2.1 Documentation and Information Gathering

One of the most critical aspects of the MSC certification process is ensuring that the Assessment Team gets a complete and thorough grounding in all aspects of the fishery under evaluation. In even the smallest fishery, the Assessment Team typically needs documentation in all areas of the fishery from the status of stocks, to ecosystem impacts, through management processes and procedures.

Under the MSC program, it is the responsibility of the applying organizations or individuals to provide the information required proving the fishery or fisheries comply with the MSC standards. It is also the responsibility of the applicants to ensure that the Assessment Team has access to any and all scientists, managers, and fishers that the Assessment Team identifies as necessary to interview in its effort to properly understand the functions associated with the management of the fishery. Lastly, it is the responsibility of the Assessment Team to make contact with stakeholders that are known to be interested or actively engaged in issues associated with fisheries in the same geographic location.

For the preparation of the ACDR, only information as presented by the client was used, including the pre-assessment report (Cappell 2019) and such information as available from the FIP for the fishery (see www.fisheryprogress.org, and reporting for the ‘China manila clam – dredge’ project). Subsequent versions of the report will be informed by the site visit, peer reviews and stakeholder comments.

9.2.2.2 Scoring and Report Development Process

• ACDR: The Announcement Comment Draft Report was completed on 23/10/2019. • Publication of ACDR: To be determined. • Onsite Visit: To be determined. • Additional Document Submission: To be determined. • Client Draft: To be determined. • Peer Review: To be determined. • Stakeholder Comment on PCDR: To be determined.

9.2.2.3 Scoring Methodology

The Assessment Team followed guidelines in MSC FCP v2.1 Section 7.10 “Scoring the fishery”. Scoring in the MSC system occurs via an Analytical Hierarchy Process and uses decision rules and weighted averages to produce Principle Level scores. There are different assessment trees used for UoA 1 (Putian HAC) and Uoa 2 (Donggang CAG), as detailed in Section 9.2.3. In summary, there are 31 Performance Indicators (PIs) for UoA 1 (including Principle 1) and 25 PIs for UoA 2 (where Principle 1 is not scored), each with one or more Scoring Issues (SIs). Each of the SIs is considered at the 60, 80, and 100 Scoring Guidepost (SG) levels. The decision rule described in Table 15 determines the PI score, which must always be in an increment of 5. If there are multiple ‘elements3’ under consideration (e.g.

3 MSC FCPV2.1 7.10.7: In Principle 1 or 2, the team shall score PIs comprised of differing scoring elements (species or habitats) that comprise part of a component affected by the UoA.

SCS Global Services Report multiple main primary species), each element is scored individually for each relevant PI, then a single PI score is generated using the same set of decision rules described in Table 15.

Table 15. Decision Rule for calculating Performance Indicator scores based on Scoring Issues, and for calculating Performance Indicator scores in cases of multiple scoring elements. (Adapted from MSC FCPV2.1 Table 4) Score Combination of individual SIs at the PI level, and/or combining multiple element PI scores into a single PI score. <60 Any scoring element/SI within a PI which fails to reach SG60 shall not be assigned a score as this is a pre-condition to certification. 60 All elements (as scored at the PI level) or SIs meet SG60 and only SG60. 65 All elements/SIs meet SG60; a few achieve higher performance, at or exceeding SG80, but most do not meet SG80. 70 All elements/SIs meet SG60; half* achieve higher performance, at or exceeding SG80, but some do not meet SG80 and require intervention action to make sure they get there. 75 All elements/SIs meet SG60; most achieve higher performance, at or exceeding SG80; only a few fail to achieve SG80 and require intervention action. 80 All elements/SIs meet SG80, and only SG80. 85 All elements/SIs meet SG80; a few achieve higher performance, but most do not meet SG100. 90 All elements/SIs meet SG80; half achieve higher performance at SG100, but some do not. 95 All elements/SIs meet SG80; most achieve higher performance at SG100, and only a few fail to achieve SG100. 100 All elements/SIs meet SG100. *MSC FCPV2.1 uses the word ‘some’ instead of half. SCS considers ‘half’ a clearer description of the methodology utilized.

We note that terms in Table 15 are interpreted as follows: • Few: Less than half. Ex: if there are a total of three SIs, one SI out of 3 is considered few. • Some: Equal to half. Ex: if there are a total of four SIs, two SIs out of 4 is considered some. • Most: More than half. Ex: if there are a total of three SIs, two SIs out of 3 is considered most.

9.2.3 Modified assessment tree The Yalu Estuary Manila Clam fishery is a hatch-and-catch (HAC) fishery with one UoA but two linked elements. Element 1 in Putian is the seed production phase and includes broodstock selected from the Putian Manila clam fishery (predominately of wild origin, with some hatchery origin broodstock) being spawned in ponds, and with the larvae collected and then ongrown initially from sand seed (≤2 mm) to juvenile size (≤10 mm) in local intertidal areas. The first element then ends when the juveniles are collected and bagged, ready for transport. Element 2 is the grow-out stage, and occurs in Donggang with juvenile Manila clam transported from the Putian region being laid in subtidal beds for growing out to a market size.

Assessing the fishery in this way requires that slightly different assessment trees are used for the fishery, as follows:

The HAC SB assessment tree does not evaluate potential impacts of translocation, but because of the movement of Manila clam from Putian to Donggang, a variation request was applied for and

SCS Global Services Report granted on September 13, 2019 to modify the assessment tree such to include consideration of the potential genetic and other impacts that need to be assessed as a result of translocation, as is the default for the CAG assessment when translocation occurs. As such, the modified HAC assessment tree used here included the Translocation PISGs 2.6.1, 2.6.2, and 2.6.3 present in the CAG assessment tree (SB3.1.4).

The variation request was posted on the MSC website at the same time as the ACDR.

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9.3 Peer Review reports To be included from the PCDR stage.

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9.4 Stakeholder input To be drafted as necessary throughout the assessment, as listed in FCP 7.15.4.1 (MSC 2018b).

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9.5 Conditions

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9.6 Client Action Plan To be added at the CPRDR Stage, if necessary.

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Surveillance To be added at the CPRDR Stage.

9.8 Risk-Based Framework outputs To be added at the CPRDR Stage.

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9.9 Harmonised fishery assessments There are no other fisheries in the region that overlap with the Yalu Estuary Manila Clam Fishery, and so harmonization is not required.

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9.10 Objection Procedure To be added at the PCR stage, if necessary.