Habitat Information Use in Stock Assessments RFP

A major focus of the Habitat Assessment Improvement Plan and this RFP is to improve stock assessments through the incorporation of habitat information. Many stock assessments do not currently incorporate habitat information directly into the assessment models. Uncertainty in the estimates of species abundance and sustainable fishing levels from stock assessments may be reduced by considering how habitats affect fishery parameters. Effective implementation of ecosystem-based management and coastal and marine spatial planning will require more information regarding habitat usage during various life stages, ecosystem effects of habitat disturbance, and the spatial and temporal scales of animal movements.

The scope of this RFP is for projects designed to improve the availability and utility of habitat information in support of the stock assessment process for stocks managed under Federal Fishery Management Plans, with an emphasis on stocks listed under the Fish Stock Sustainability Index (FSSI).

1315 East West Highway