The gulf fishery management council (council) will consolidate previously collected coral reef ecosystem data into an online geospatial platform and update a model to improve their understanding of…

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) awarded $146,839 to the Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council (GMFMC) under the Regional Fishery Management Councils program (CFDA 11.441) effective October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2026. Under this cooperative agreement, the GMFMC will consolidate previously collected coral reef ecosystem data into an online geospatial platform and update analytical models to improve understanding of geographic distribution of coral species and ecosystem health assessments in the Gulf of Mexico region.

The Council will utilize the consolidated data and enhanced modeling capabilities to inform fisheries management activities and support decision-making processes. Additionally, the GMFMC will translate the scientific findings and geospatial platform into outreach materials and resources for dissemination to advisory bodies and the general public, advancing ecosystem-based fisheries management and stakeholder engagement in coral reef conservation efforts within the 200-mile U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone.

The gulf fishery management council (council) will consolidate previously collected coral reef ecosystem data into an online geospatial platform and update a model to improve their understanding of geographic distribution of coral species and assesses ecosystem health. The council will use this information to support their management activities and translate IT into outreach materials for their advisory bodies and the public.