Discard Methodology

Discard Methodology

In 2010, we developed a new methodology to estimate discards based on observer information. During November 2016, the Greater Atlantic Regional Fisheries Office hosted a review the methodology to consider modifications based on concerns raised by fishermen, stakeholders, and our staff.

The Center for Independent Experts (CIE) obtained the services of two scientists who conducted the independent peer review:

•  Robin Cook, Ph.D., University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, Scotland
•  Shijie Zhou, Ph.D., CSIRO Oceans & Atmosphere, Australia

Peer Review Reports and GARFO Responses

• Robin Cook Review Report
• Shijie Zhou Review Report
• GARFO Summary and Response
• R package (discaRd) for calculating discard estimates

Background Information

• Discard Calculation Methodology for Groundfish Sector Program
• Terms of Reference
• Working Papers
  • Methods for examining in-season behavior of the cumulative discard estimation in the Greater Atlantic Region
  • Cumulative discard methodology review for catch cap monitoring in the Atlantic sea scallop (Placopecten magellanicus)
  • Cumulative discard methodology review for butterfish (Peprilus triacanthus) discards in the longfin squid (Doryteuthis (Amerigo) pealeii) fishery
  • Cumulative discard methodology review for catch cap monitoring in the Atlantic herring (Clupea harengus) and Atlantic mackerel (Scomber scombrus) fisheries
  • Cumulative discard methodology review for groundfish discards in the Northeast United States groundfish fishery