Fishery Monitoring and Research in the Northeast

We collect information from commercial and recreational fisheries and support the use of that information to inform fisheries science and management.

We bring the fisherman’s perspective into the federal process through collaboratively producing scientific information.

We strive to be a trusted presence among the fishing, scientific, and management communities.

Fisheries Monitoring Operations Branch

We work directly with fishermen and their vessels to collect information on fishery landings and fishing operations. Our staff and observers accompany a subset of commercial fishing trips as observers or monitors. While aboard, they collect biological samples from the catch that are used for stock assessments and ecological studies. They also watch for interactions with protected species such as loggerhead sea turtles and harbor porpoises. They collect data reflecting:

• Fishing effort
• Catch kept for landing as well as that classified as bycatch and/or discarded
• Trip costs
• Vessel efficiency

We further support at-sea activities by:

• Implementing the Standardized Bycatch Reporting Methodology
• Overseeing industry-funded observer programs
• Evaluating electronic monitoring systems

Training and Data Quality Branch

We provide certified biologists for at-sea fishery observing and monitoring. This kind of data collection requires significant training and skill to ensure that all data meet the high standards necessary to inform management decisions in our Northeast and Mid-Atlantic fisheries. We use a variety of innovative techniques to teach a wide range of subjects, including:

• Sampling methodology
• Data documentation
• Biological sampling
• Species identification
• Safety

After each trip’s data is reported, our data processing staff thoroughly review it for quality assurance. They work with data collectors to address sampling issues and correct errors, ensuring that high quality data are available to stakeholders in a timely fashion.

Data and Information Systems Branch

High quality and representative data underpin effective fisheries science. We manage data collected directly from the fisheries, and develop modernized information systems to enhance our fisheries monitoring and research operations. We lead the development and/or maintenance of the following fisheries information systems or applications:

• Northeast Electronic Monitoring Information System
• Fishery Monitoring Portal
• Observer Trip Editing System
• Observer At Sea Information System
• Pre-Trip Notification System
• Observer Database System

These systems or applications support a wide range of fisheries monitoring programs in the region.