Abstract:
This presentation describes NMFS' Bycatch Reduction Engineering Program (BREP) and provides examples of how observers provide critical contributions to bycatch research in the Gulf of Mexico and New England.  Specficially, this presentation highlights contributions of observers to the success of projects to (1) evaluate the efficacy of a new 16/0 "weak" circle hook design in reducing the bycatch of bluefin tuna in the Gulf of Mexico yellowfin tuna fishery and to (2) test the ability of experimental gillnets to reduce marine mammal interactions with fisheries.  This presentation also describes how the need for observers is factored into long-term planning and budgeting efforts for the BREP.