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Washington D.C. - The International Seafood Sustainability Foundation (ISSF) announced MRAG Americas Inc. will serve as independent auditor of the ProActive Vessel Register (PVR), a newly launched database that is designed to help identify vessels adopting best-in-class, responsible tuna fishing practices.

“MRAG is a recognized and trusted name in fisheries consulting and management, making them an excellent partner to ensure the accuracy and transparency of the ProActive Vessel Register,” said ISSF President Susan Jackson. “The independent auditing process strengthens this important element of our overall improvement plan for global tuna fisheries.”

The ProActive Vessel Register (PVR) will identify which of more than 25 ISSF Commitments each vessel has adopted, including implementing strategies to increase supply chain transparency, providing complete catch data to management bodies and continuing education in best practices that reduce fishing’s impact on the greater marine environment. MRAG will monitor vessels on the PVR for compliance by performing on-site reviews and audits, as well as conducting regular reviews of public documents and databases. This validation process also includes real-time data submitted via iPads and other mobile applications. Auditors will receive notification when vessels keep a specific commitment, such as when a skipper completes training or submits data to the scientific bodies of a Regional Fisheries Management Organization (RFMO).

“MRAG Americas is committed to the responsible stewardship of marine resources around the world and is excited about this opportunity to provide independent verification for ISSF’s ProActive Vessel Register.” said Graeme Parkes, MRAG Americas’ VP - Fisheries.

To find out more about the ProActive Vessel Register, and to access a list of commitments, click here.

About the International Seafood Sustainability Foundation (ISSF)
The International Seafood Sustainability Foundation (ISSF) is a global coalition of scientists, the tuna industry and World Wildlife Fund (WWF), the world’s leading conservation organization, promoting science-based initiatives for the long-term conservation and sustainable use of tuna stocks, reducing bycatch and promoting ecosystem health. To learn more, visit their website at www.iss-foundation.org.

About MRAG
MRAG Americas, MRAG Ltd., and MRAG Asia Pacific are three independent companies with a shared philosophy of providing the highest level of excellence in independent scientific and technical consulting services for projects in aquatic resources management. MRAG’s expertise has been utilized by governments, NGOs and the private sector for more than 25 years in over 60 countries around the world. MRAG Americas, Inc., headquartered in St. Petersburg, Florida, is registered as a consulting firm with the Department of Commerce (US); on the web at www.mragamericas.com.

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