Bycatch Reduction Engineering Program Annual Report to Congress, 2014
February 01, 2014
This report highlights outcomes of projects funded by the Bycatch Reduction Engineering Program in Fiscal Year 2013.
In support of our mission to sustainably manage the nation’s fisheries, NOAA Fisheries has been investing in technological and engineering solutions to reduce bycatch. Bycatch occurs when fishing operations discard fish or interact with marine mammals, seabirds, or sea turtles. Reducing bycatch in fisheries can have significant positive biological, economic, and social impacts. Reducing bycatch of protected species can improve the recovery of marine mammals, sea turtles, seabirds and fish.
This report highlights outcomes and management applications of projects funded with $2.39 million in Fiscal Year 2013. They represent four priority areas:
- Reducing Protected Species Bycatch
- Improving Fishing Practices
- Innovative Technologies
- Reducing Post-Release Mortality