We study the size and age composition of fish populations throughout New England and the Mid-Atlantic. We do this in order to:
- Monitor the abundance of fish stocks.
- Measure the impact of fishing activity.
- Evaluate biological aspects of the ecosystem.
Together, each element describes stock health through a stock assessment. In the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic we assess approximately 40 different fish and invertebrate species, and contribute to marine mammal assessments.
We work with species ranging from the U.S./Canada border to Cape Hatteras, North Carolina, and share some stocks with Canada. Our work supports these fishery management organizations:
- New England Fishery Management Council
- Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council
- Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission
We participate in Plan Development Teams for the New England Fishery Management Council and in Fishery Management Assessment Teams for the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council.
We actively support management of international fisheries that span the boundary between the United States and Canada, and North Atlantic stocks that we share with Europe. We partner with member organizations like the Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organization to conduct rigorous scientific analysis.
We are active in the scientific community. We use advanced statistical and mathematical modelling techniques, and innovative data analysis. Our scientists are experts in their fields and contribute to research organizations like the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea.
Branch Chief: Kristan Blackhart
