How we estimate discarded fish based on fishery observer information.
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:
Peer Review Reports and GARFO Responses
Since 2016, a subset of vessels in the Northeast Multispecies fishery has been outfitted with electronic monitoring (EM) systems to collect data on discarded groundfish, including observations that are self-reported (VTRs) and those resulting from review of recorded video footage. This EM program developed an audit-based approach that reviews video from a random selection of trips to leverage the relationship between EM-reviewed discards and VTR-reported discards and optimize review rates.
In 2021, we submitted a white paper documenting the effort to the Center for Independent Experts (CIE) for review. The CIE obtained the services of 3 scientists who conducted an independent peer review:
Four North Atllantic right whales.
A Northeast Fisheries Science Center biologist collecting data during buoyless lobster trap tests.
Atlantic sea scallops
