We provide the scientific foundation to inform effective implementation of ecosystem-based management and conservation strategies for fisheries throughout the U.S. Pacific Islands. This includes fish life history, population assessments, and research into methods to reduce bycatch of non-target species. We also monitor fishing activity, such as catch and effort, in the U.S. Pacific Islands and oceanic waters of the central and western Pacific, and work with the State of Hawaii and Pacific territorial agencies to improve their fisheries monitoring efforts. Our researchers assess the status of exploited fish stocks and provide scientific advice to fishery managers.
These activities are guided by the Magnuson-Stevens Act and international agreements. We also work closely with our partners in state, territorial, and other federal agencies, international fisheries organizations, foreign scientific institutions, the fishing and seafood industry, academia, and non-governmental organizations.
