WP1 Update July 2026, 28.07.2026

During Period 6, the project team successfully integrated a side-scan sonar system with the Deep Trekker ROV to enhance the detection of abandoned gillnets. Despite several software-related challenges, the team completed five days of successful field testing in Matsalu Bay, demonstrating the operational potential of the integrated system.

Further development and testing of the ROV-based survey methodology will continue during August and September.

In parallel, aerial drones were evaluated as a complementary tool for detecting abandoned gillnets from the air. During the surveys in Matsalu Bay, four potential targets were identified and have been scheduled for verification using the ROV.