The tasks associated with this project will help improve the understanding of the red snapper fishery and other reef-associated species in the south atlantic region

The South Atlantic Fishery Management Council (SAFMC), a non-profit organization, received a $450,000 Project Grant from the Department of Commerce National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) under the Regional Fishery Management Councils (CFDA 11.441) program. The funding will support a multifaceted approach to improve understanding of the red snapper fishery and other reef-associated species in the South Atlantic region. Key activities include addressing discard mortality of red snapper, understanding stakeholder adoption of best fishing practices, engaging stakeholders in the management process, addressing stakeholder concerns, and supporting the transition to the South Atlantic Red Snapper Research Track Stock Assessment. The grant period runs from Oct 1, 2023 to Dec 31, 2026. The SAFMC's work spans research, data collection, stakeholder engagement, habitat mapping, and fishery resource management, often in collaboration with partners.

This multifaceted approach is needed to: address discard mortality of red snapper, understand how stakeholders are adopting best fishing practices (bfps), further engage stakeholders in the management process, address stakeholders' concerns, and improve the transition from review of the south atlantic red snapper research project (sarsrp) to use of the information in the south atlantic red snapper research track stock assessment.