2. CFMC/OSPESCA/WECAFC/CRFM Queen Conch (Strombus gigas )Working Group October 23 -25 2012 Panama by S.J. HEYLIGER

3. St. Kitts and Nevis-a twin Island Federation has as its major export marine product, queen conch (Strombus gigas).

4. Fin Fish Strombus gigas Lobsters

5. Small >6m open vessels powered by outboard engines SCUBA and Free dive Conch is removed from shell at sea Less than fifty fishers Less than 30 boats

6. Policy and Legislation Current legislation SRO 11 of 95 Close seasons and Close areas have been discussed but not implemented Development of stock assessment project is ongoing in collaboration with CRFM

7. Management and Conservation Data Collection Improvement has been made and further strengthening is being considered Verifying Meat Weight for export purposes. Limited entry Regulations/Policy MPA

8. Future Planning… Stock Assessment Data Collection Improvement to include catch and effort, permits, certificates, landings and exports Standardizing Meat Weights (Processing)

9. Consumption and Trade Local consumption about 25% (mostly free divers) Export to neighbouring islands (SCUBA through middle-men)

10. Challenges Ahead… Enforcement Implementation of Data collection system Finances & Staff Economic difficulties – closure of sugar industry Training and Retraining/Sensitization of Authorities