Shrimp Observer Program

This data set contains data that are collected by trained observers aboard shrimp trawl and reef fish trap and longline vessels. The shrimp fishery observer program has been in existence since about 1987 and was originally developed to provide an economic evaluation of turtle reduction devices (TED) in shrimp trawls. The observers collect data for the following research topics: 1) shrimp trawl bycatch characterization research, 2) shrimp trawl bycatch reduction device evaluation, 3) analysis for estimation of fishing mortality rates for bycatch species, and 4) reef fish trap and longline characterization research.

The southeastern shrimp trawl fishery impacts commercial and recreational fishes. Several of these fisheries have been declared overfished, and incidental catch of these species must be reduced. This project addresses NMFS Goal 1 (Rebuild overfished marine fisheries) and NMFS Goal 2 (Maintain currently productive fisheries).

OBJECTIVE: This project evaluates the operational performances of bycatch reduction devices (BRDs) during commercial shrimping operations. Catch rates of finfish and shrimp in nets equipped with BRDs and turtle excluder devices (TEDs) are compared to nets equipped with TEDs only. This project provides information for FMPs and marine recreational fishery programs.

NOAA STRATEGIC PLAN ELEMENTS: A1) Assess the status of fishery resources, and A4) Reduce bycatch.

PRODUCTS:

Bycatch reduction device (BRD) description reports and manuscripts

BRD effectiveness reports and manuscripts

Spatial and temporal bycatch characterization reports and manuscripts

Bycatch species stock assessment update reports and manuscripts

Open to qualified researchers

Contact Data Steward

May require a confidentiality Agreement

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