NOAA Fisheries released a new report earlier this month that lays out the agency’s vision for how it seeks to conduct stock assessments in the future.
The report, titled “Implementing a Next Generation Stock Assessment Enterprise,” is an update from NOAA’s 2001 Stock Assessment Improvement Plan. Federal officials praised that report for leading the development of rebuilding plans that has helped reduce overfishing in recent years.
However, with the advent of new technologies and regulations, it was the time to develop a new strategic plan.
“The ocean is a dynamic system. As changes occur, we must adapt and progress toward fishery management approaches that are more holistic and ecosystem linked,” said Francisco Werner, the director of scientific programs and chief science advisor for NOAA's Southeast Fisheries Science Center. “We should also continue to improve our assessments through investments in innovative science and technologies, and improvements in the timeliness and efficiency of the stock assessment process.”
One of the recommendations the report makes is the implementation of a more holistic assessment process that considers other drivers – such as climate, habitat, and biological factors – in determining the status of a fishery. The agency recommends a three-step process in determining if a stock assessment would qualify for the holistic approach.
In addition, the report encourages the use of “advanced technologies,” including the use of sonar and robotic camera systems to increase efficiencies in collecting data. NOAA also will seek to improve on the statistical methods used in determining stock assessments.
Lastly, the agency also will look to maximize efficiencies in conducting assessments. The report states that the agency is responsible for managing more stocks than can be assessed in any given year, but some of those stocks do not need to be assessed as frequently as others.
According to NOAA officials, they will work closely with their partners across the country to implement the strategies outlined in the report in a manner that meets the standards currently established in each region.
