Survey database

Last year, WG-FSA discussed further work on the survey database. It was agreed that the Secretariat would distribute documents and specifications to Members to allow them to create software that exports data from their databases in CCAMLR format. It was also agreed that Members should consider the data requirements of the new CCAMLR survey database, and ensure that all essential data are recorded and submitted to the Secretariat. In addition, WG-FSA agreed that the Data Manager would develop a feed-back mechanism for correcting errors in the database, and Members were urged to provide updates and correction to CCAMLR (SC-CAMLR-XXI, Annex 5, paragraphs 3.1 – 3.8)
During 2002/03, the Secretariat completed the transfer of available survey data to the new database and developed a separate database shell for the exchange of data. This data exchange protocol provides a feed-back mechanism for correcting errors in the database. The mechanism necessarily involves on-going participation by data owners. Members were requested to consider the data requirements of the new database, and to provide updates and correction to CCAMLR
The Secretariat also revised the method used to extract and prepare length density data for input to the CMIX routine. The intersessional work is presented here.