Science & Data

Science & Data

NOAA Fisheries' science-based conservation and management of sustainable fisheries, marine mammals, endangered species, and their habitats have become global models for marine stewardship and sustainability.

Our research surveys provide data critical to the stewardship of our nation's ocean resources and their habitat. For 150 years, our scientists and partners have collected survey data to understand current and changing ocean conditions and monitor marine life. The insights we gain are the heart of our science-based conservation and management. 

Effective science-based conservation and management are essential to ensuring sustainable domestic seafood production, maintaining and enhancing fishing opportunities, recovering protected species, and safeguarding ecosystem health.

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Featured News

Meet the Autonomous Underwater Robot Expanding Our Ability to Survey the Seafloor

We use Long-Range Autonomous Underwater Vehicles to photograph the seafloor. These images help improve sea scallop stock assessments by expanding the data we collect and allowing us to survey difficult-to-reach areas.
August 31, 2026 - Feature Story ,
New England/Mid-Atlantic
Scientists and crew deploying uncrewed robot

Caribbean Fishery Management: Voices from the Islands

Sustainably managing the diverse resources and distinct regions across the Caribbean relies on careful collaboration, local expertise, and flexibilities provided by the Magnuson-Stevens Act.
August 28, 2026 - Feature Story ,
Southeast
view of a tropical island in the background with two photos on top: left black and white image of several boats with Puerto Rico and American flags, and right image of several wood and wire fish traps on a dock (Overlay) Left: Christening of new shrimp boats acquired by the Dorado Fishing Cooperative in Puerto Rico, 1965. Credit: NOAA Central Library Historical Fisheries Collection; Right: Description Wood-and-wire lobster pots, seen here on a dock at Puerto Rico's Fajardo Beach, are still common in the Caribbean. Credit: Julio A. Serrano; (Background): A view of a tropical coastline in St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands. Credit: Meaghan Emory

Students Dive into Queen Conch Science with NOAA Scientists

NOAA Fisheries scientists partnered with Texas A&M University students in Puerto Rico to survey queen conch and gain hands-on marine science experience.
August 25, 2026 - Feature Story ,
Southeast
Snorkelers hold and examine pink, spiral-shaped shells underwater
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Science Blogs

Navigating the Skies and Seas: A Drone Pilot's Perspective on Sperm Whales

Evaluating Impacts of Multiple Stressors on Gulf Whales and Dolphins

Dr. Melissa Cook describes how a team used drones to study endangered sperm whales in the Gulf of America.
August 24, 2026 - Survey ,
Southeast
The bow, drone deck and flying bridge of NOAA Ship Gordon Gunter.

The Unexpected Catch: Friendship at Sea

Field Fresh Blog: Science in Motion

A fisheries observer's job is full of challenges, but one of its greatest rewards isn't found in the catch—for Sophie Brager it's the people you meet along the way. Read her story about the friendships, support, and connections that make life at sea a little easier.
August 14, 2026 - Fisheries Observer ,
New England/Mid-Atlantic
Women in orange gear on stern of fishing vessel.

Survey Crashers: Encountering Unexpected New Faces in the Gulf of Maine

Field Fresh Blog: Science in Motion

Field scientist Ben Church shares new species he encountered during the Spring 2026 Gulf of Maine Bottom Longline Survey.
August 13, 2026 - Survey ,
New England/Mid-Atlantic
The orange sun setting on the dark blue ocean in front of a white boat. Watching the sunset over the horizon of the Gulf of Maine. Credit: Giovanni Gianesin/NOAA Fisheries
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