Scientific Observer Program Goals & Objectives Thanks to L. Chilton for initial development of this presentation.

Objectives Describe 5 objectives of a scientific observer program (see manual section 2.3)

Scientific Observer Program – Overarching Goal Collect independent, accurate and reliable data Long-term conservation & sustainable use of living aquatic resources (in accordance with the Natural Resources Law, 1958 and subsequent regulations) Photo credits: NOAA\NMFS\AFSC\RACE

Scientific Observer Program Objectives I Estimate total fishing effort Estimate weight and/or numbers of all species caught (catch composition) Establish disposition (e.g., retained, discarded, dead or alive) of subsampled hauls Photo credits: NOAA\NMFS\AFSC\RACE

Scientific Observer Program Objectives II Collect biological information on target and non-target species of subsampled hauls Monitor fish or fish product offloads and transshipments Monitor IUU activity Photo credits: NOAA\NMFS\AFSC\RACE

Document types of vessel equipment utilized and record vessel characteristics Collect catch & biological data on marine mammals and sea turtles Document the presence of marine debris Scientific Observer Program Objectives III Photo credits: NOAA\NMFS\AFSC\RACE

Evaluate the effectiveness of bycatch reduction devices (BRDs) Educate fishers regarding BRDs, careful release techniques for sea turtles, seabirds and marine mammals and other relevant rules/regulations Scientific Observer Program Additional Objectives I © Karumbe Gasco-

Collect economic data Provide input to future regulatory changes utilizing observer data Monitor fish quality Scientific Observer Program Additional Objectives II

Training Overview/Expectations 12 days – fairly intense & rigorous schedule Range of topics: gear types, sampling duties, species ID, safety training Lots of activities, homework Final exams – must pass with 70% proficiency We expect everyone to pass - ask for help if something is not clear – we’re here for you Raise your hand for questions – immediate answer or it’ll go to the ‘parking lot’ for later

Introductions Name If you were deployed in April, tell us 1 thing you learned What’s your favorite fish & why