Sound scientific research is the foundation for conservation and management of our nation's marine fisheries, habitats, and protected species. To help ensure the quality, integrity, credibility, and transparency of our science, we conduct peer reviews of our scientific programs.
NOAA Fisheries began a systematic peer review process in 2013 at all six regional science centers and the headquarters Office of Science and Technology. Experts from within and outside the agency carefully examine science programs on a 5-year peer review cycle to improve integration, identify best practices, and share successes and challenges within our science enterprise. The review process includes opportunities for public involvement, part of our broader dialog with fishery management councils, fishing industry, and other stakeholders.
The Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center provides data, information, analysis and technical advice to a wide assortment of clients and partners, including the Pacific Islands Regional Office, other NOAA Fisheries offices, and the Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council. We produce and assemble scientific information and provide it to other offices of NOAA and the Federal government, state and territorial government agencies, university and other scientific research partners, both domestic and international, and the public.
In 2017, a panel of independent experts reviewed the Center's economics and human dimensions research program.
In 2016, a panel of independent experts reviewed the Center's ecosystem sciences program.
In 2015, a panel of independent experts reviewed the Center's protected species program.
In 2014, a panel of independent experts reviewed the Center's fisheries stock assessment program.
In 2013, a panel of independent experts reviewed the Center's information for fisheries stock assessments.
Prior to the national review process, the Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center conducted a series of external reviews to evaluate science programs. Reviews included background materials, presentations by scientists, discussion sessions, and opportunities for public comment. Panelists reviewed information needs, priorities, and research activities and then provided reports with recommendations to improve the quality of these programs.
In 2016, we conducted a program review to evaluate the quality, relevance, and performance of the Center's bio-sampling research and its usefulness in supporting management, and to assist with future plans for the Commercial Fisheries Bio-Sampling Program.
From July 26–28, 2011, we invited a panel of independent experts to review and evaluate the Center's research on sea turtle population modeling, population monitoring, and bycatch mitigation. The panelists were asked to provide recommendations for improving our work in this important area of conservation and management science.
In public sessions, our scientists described the multi-faceted sea turtle research program, including studies on inshore and pelagic ecology, population monitoring and assessment, bycatch mitigation in longline fisheries and net fisheries, effects of oceanography and climate, and more. Presentations focused on four species: Hawaiian green turtles, loggerhead and leatherback turtles, and hawksbill turtles, although other species were also considered. The panel also met with key stakeholders, in a closed session, to receive candid input on our ability to provide timely and high-quality scientific information for conservation and management.
In 2010, we invited a panel of independent experts to review and evaluate the Center's approaches to management of scientific data. We asked the panelists to provide recommendations for improving our data management practices and service quality across all major scientific programs.
In 2009, we invited a panel of independent experts to review and evaluate the Center's pelagics research programs.
In 2008, we invited a panel of independent experts to review and evaluate the Center's approaches to ecosystem-related research and monitoring programs.
In 2007, we invited a panel of independent experts to review and evaluate the Center's science programs.
Leatherback turtle in the Kei Islands. Credit: Scubazoo/Jason Isley
Non-commercial fishing in the Pacific Islands. Credit: NOAA Fisheries
Female Hawaiian monk seal RO28, one of the “monk seal matriarchs,” and her pup on Kaua‘i. Credit: Val Bloy
