PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT (PWS) ATTACHMENTS.pdf

Attachment 1: Glossary

Attachment 2: Labor Category Classifications and Job Descriptions

Attachment 3: 2024 NEFOP Seaday Schedule

Attachment 4: Annual Biological Port Sampling Request List (2025)

Attachment 5: Observer Training Certifications

Attachment 6: FMRD Observer Training and Program Standards

Attachment 7: NOAA Fisheries Observer Eligibility Requirements

Attachment 8: Incident Report Form

Attachment 9: Port Orientation Program

Attachment 10: Species Verification Program

Attachment 11: Pre-Trip Vessel Safety Checklist (PTVSC)

Attachment 12: Freezer Locations

Attachment 13: Data Quality Monitoring and Improvement Measures

Attachment 14: Exit Procedures (spreadsheet and interview)

Attachment 15: Work Status Policy

Attachment 16: Biological Port Sampling (BPS) Work Instructions

Attachment 17: Technical Requirements for Bar-Coded Coin Envelopes

Attachment 18: BioLogical Information Sampling Software (BLISS) User Guide

Attachment 19: Biological Port Sampling Monthly Summary Report

Attachment 20: Biological Port Sampling Requirements Summary

Attachment 21 : Monthly Billable Biological Samples Spreadsheet

Attachment 22: FMRD Training Certification Request Form

Attachment 23: NEFOP Training Agenda

Attachment 24: Trip Trainer Certification Program

Attachment 25: NEFSC Individual Statement of Non-Disclosure

Attachment 26: FMRD Electronic Devices and Media Confidentiality Agreement

Attachment 27: Likeness and Profile Release Form

Attachment 28: Shadow Trip Program

Attachment 29: Biannual Evaluation

Attachment 30: NEFOP Gear List

Attachment 31: Gear Certification and Maintenance Program

Attachment 32: NEFOP Observer Travel Voucher

Attachment 33: Late Observer Policy

Attachment 34: Safety Deficiency Report

Attachment 35: Observer Vessel Selection Fact Sheet

Attachment 36: Vessel Selection Letter

Attachment 37: Vessel Selection Letter Protocols

Attachment 38: NOP Safety Training Standards

Attachment 39: Location of NEFOP Trips in 2024

Attachment 40: Captain Interview Questions

Attachment 41: Authorization for Release of Information

NORTHEAST FISHERIES OBSERVER PROGRAM (NEFOP)

PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT (PWS) ATTACHMENTS

The following attachments will be provided separately as Excel documents:

Attachment 4: Annual Biological Port Sampling Request List (2025)

Attachment 20: Biological Port Sampling Requirements Summary

SECTION 4

ATTACHMENTS

Attachment 1

GLOSSARY

Briefing A returning observer is ‘briefed’ on any changes that the program has made during their absence or as required by the program prior to being deployed.

Bycatch The unintentional taking of non-targeted species that is composed of a variety of marine life – fish, mammals, turtles, and birds.

Contractor’s Quality Assurance Plan (QAP)

The contractor’s plan and systematic description of the activities it will perform to achieve a successful outcome and provide the quality standards the government expects in the performance of its services.

Debriefing

Review process of trip information or data collected by an observer at the completion of a deployment.

Debriefings can be conducted via email, over the telephone, or in-person.

Experienced Observer

An observer who has successfully completed 30 sampling days or 3 trips while serving as an observer in the program they are currently serving in or from a similar observer program.

Editor/Debriefer

A NMFS employee responsible for reviewing observer submitted data and conducting debriefings following each observer deployment for data reconciliation purposes.

Fisheries Program Manager (FPM)

A NMFS employee that is responsible for oversight of the observer program.

New Observer An observer who has successfully completed observer training, but has no previous observer experience.

NMFS NOAA National Marine Fisheries Service

NOAA National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

Observer Candidate An individual selected by the observer contractor in accordance with the specified qualifications that will initiate appropriate training and approval to become a new observer.

Observer Coverage

The numbers of days observers are deployed with assigned vessels in a particular fishery multiplied by a unit of total effort in the fishery (often the number fishing days in the season or total landed catch is used) as a percentage measurement.

Observer Program and Biological Sampling Manual

These manuals are fishery specific (manuals available online at the NMFS website) and detail data collection and sampling procedures relative to that fishery.

Observer Training Day For the purposes of compensation, any day an observer is engaged in training, briefing, or debriefing. Observers will be compensated for a regular 8 hour work day.

Probationary Observer Any observer that has not satisfactorily completed at least 30 sea days or 3 trips as determined by the specific program.

Project Manager Responsible person for managing personnel resources and other items specified in this contract.

Quality Assurance (QA) Quality Assurance is all the planned and systematic activities implemented within the quality system to provide confidence that the project will satisfy the relevant quality standards.

Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP)

Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan is the Government’s process that will be used to ensure that the project will satisfy the needs for which it was undertaken. It describes the roles and responsibility and methodology used to monitor the contractor’s performance in meeting the performance measures and standards under the contract.

Quality Control (QC)

Quality control is the monitoring of specific project results to determine if they comply with relevant quality standards, and eliminating causes of unsatisfactory results.

Retained Observer An observer who is employed by the current contractor, is currently working in the fishery specified in the current contract and is available and being assigned work.

Sea Day Any day an observer is deployed on a vessel at sea (leaves port, is out at sea, or returns to port).

Training One to three week period of education for observer candidate to become a new observer.

US Exclusive Economic Zone

The waters governed seaward 3 miles out to 200 miles off the United States coast.

Attachment 2

LABOR CATEGORY CLASSIFICATIONS AND JOB DESCRIPTIONS

1. Project Manager:

Project Manager shall be designated as Key Personnel for this contract in accordance with CAR 1352.237-75 Key Personnel (APR 2010) and shall be the focal point for communications between NOAA Fisheries and the contractor. The Project Manager shall be responsible for managing personnel resources such that emergencies and other short term ad hoc requirements are responded to without disruption and/or degradation of other services. The Project Manager shall collaborate with all parties (Government and vessel owners) as necessary to resolve issues at the lowest possible level. The Project Manger shall work closely with NMFS Management Division and the Office for Law Enforcement on enforcement issues. The Project Manager shall reside locally (e.g., at or nearby one of the major fishing ports) in order to fully and properly support coordinating and observer staff. The Project Manager shall be responsible for all aspects of performance on individual Task Orders as well as the contract and shall have the authority to represent the contractor on all issues related to the contract.

2. Area Coordinator: The Area Coordinator shall oversee and manage the program by: managing the day-to-day operations, generate a list of commercial vessels for observer coverage, arrange logistics of observer coverage, database management, and work with NMFS senior scientists, enforcement, the U.S. Coast Guard, the commercial fishing industry, and administrative personnel and staff from other NMFS divisions. The Area Coordinator shall participate in training sessions and attend scientific conferences and meetings to present results of the program. The Area Coordinator is expected to maintain a certain level of field work to ensure all allocated days on the sea day schedules are accomplished. This will require looking for effort, communicating regularly with industry, setting up trips, meeting observers in the field for port orientations and debriefings and reporting back to NOAA Fisheries on any shortfalls or difficulties in obtaining sea days. Area Coordinators are required to maintain current observer certification by attending refresher training unless waived by the COR. Area Coordinators shall ensure that all key personnel attend any refresher training as required.

Northeast Fisheries Science Center Fishery Monitoring and Research Division ∙ Training Certifications

Attachment 5

TRAINING CERTIFICATIONS

The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) Northeast Fisheries Science Center (NEFSC) Fishery Monitoring and Research Division (FMRD) collects, maintains, and distributes data for scientific and management purposes in the Northwest Atlantic. FMRD manages at-sea human observing, at-sea electronic monitoring (EM), and shore-side sampling programs. Here, “observer” refers to any observer, monitor, shore-side sampler, or EM reviewer working for FMRD.

The intent of this document is to provide an overview of the certification process and describe how certifications are maintained for individual FMRD observer programs.

I. Training Certification Process for All Fisheries Monitoring Programs

Training Applicants are evaluated and approved by FMRD staff prior to the start of each training class. Applicants should be in contact with their observer service provider prior to training for expectations, prerequisites1, and logistical information needed for training, see NMFS NEFSC FMRD TDQ Candidate Eligibility Standards: Accommodations & Waiver document. A list of approved programs and service providers can be found at https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/about/fishery-monitoring-and-research-northeast. All FMRD observer programs (not including EM reviewers) require observers to be certified in first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). During training, observer candidates are educated in many disciplines including, but not limited to, safety procedures and protocols, conflict resolution, fish/seabird/protected species identification, biological sampling, fishery operations/fishing gear, data collection, and data submission requirements.

Each training course requires candidates to achieve a minimum passing score, pass the background security check, and meet and maintain the FMRD Training and Program Standards. Training courses may include dock visits and/or at-sea fishing trips. After successful completion of the training course, candidates will be approved to begin the certification process.

Certification In order to receive a certification, the observer candidate is required to successfully complete a series of certification trips after successful completion of training. The number of certification trips required is

1For observer qualifications, see the National Observer Program (http://www.st.nmfs.noaa.gov/observer-home/index#) and Fishery Monitoring and Research Division (https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/about/fishery-monitoring-and-research-northeast).

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Gv5AbZnWDHCwFYcPfggnMgMqqJpTJDzVnsZcUUD57zc/edit https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Gv5AbZnWDHCwFYcPfggnMgMqqJpTJDzVnsZcUUD57zc/edit https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/about/fishery-monitoring-and-research-northeast http://www.st.nmfs.noaa.gov/observer-home/index http://www.st.nmfs.noaa.gov/observer-home/index https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/about/fishery-monitoring-and-research-northeast https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/about/fishery-monitoring-and-research-northeast

Northeast Fisheries Science Center Fishery Monitoring and Research Division ∙ Training Certifications dependent upon the training program and certification type. In order to qualify as a certification trip, the observer must:

● Fully document observed catch;

● Observe/sample/annotate the required number of hauls/events (see the relevant program manuals);

● Bring all required sampling gear and resources (e.g., tablet, guides) (per individual program requirements); and

● Provide verification of species identification skills using photographs and/or samples.

● Submit age structures on at least one trip (per individual program requirements).

It is recommended, but not required, for certification trips to be 1-2 days in length. This helps to prevent candidates from becoming overwhelmed by longer trips and allows debriefers to quickly catch any errors before they affect large amounts of data. If an observer candidate is struggling with basic protocols, FMRD may require that they remain on shorter trips until said issues are resolved.

A trip trainer may be required for at least one of the certification trips. Trip trainers are experienced observers certified by FMRD to accompany observer candidates. The purpose of the Trip Trainer is to evaluate how well the candidate performs in the field.

Trips should be identified as certification trips either by program code (if applicable) or by adding “Certification Trip” to the trip-level comment field.

The following table shows the number of required certification trips based on the current certification(s) (if any) held by the observer and the program for which the observer is attempting certification. Asterisks indicate a trip trainer is necessary. Dashes indicate that a particular combination is not applicable or is not currently offered.

For human at-sea certifications, the first trip on a new gear type will always be treated as a certification trip, even if the observer is already certified in that program. See the lists below for categorization of gear types within each certification.

Training into

ASM IFS NEFOP HVF IFM

At-sea3

HVF IFM

Portside

EM

None (initial training)

4 3 4* 4 4 3

ASM - 3 4 - - 2

IFS 4 - 4 2 3 2

NEFOP 2 3 - 1 3 2

HVF IFM At-sea - 3 4 - 1 -

HVF IFM

Portside

EM - - - - - -

C u rr e nt

Northeast Fisheries Science Center Fishery Monitoring and Research Division ∙ Training Certifications

Approval

All certification trips are edited as a priority and debriefed immediately by FMRD Training and Data Quality (TDQ) staff, typically on the day the trip is received (processing may take longer depending on trip duration and quality of data submitted). The observer candidate cannot take another certification trip until TDQ has sent out an email to the observer candidate and service provider approving them for their next trip. Once all certification trips are successfully completed, TDQ will review the data and, if approved, the observer candidate will become an FMRD certified observer. Once certified, the observer can redeploy without further approval on the approved gear type(s). See sections below for individual requirements for each training type.

The first certification trip must be taken within 2 months of the completion of the training course and no more than 2 months can elapse between certification trips, unless there are extenuating circumstances, which must be communicated to and approved by the program, in advance. No more than 6 months can elapse between training and program certification2. If these timelines are not met, the candidate will not receive their certification and may not continue to deploy. An additional certification trip may be required if data quality is not acceptable by FMRD standards. If the additional trip is not acceptable by FMRD, the candidate will not become certified.

The number and combination of certifications that observers are attempting to receive concurrently is limited. At no point should an observer be working towards more than three (3) certifications at a time. In combination, no more than one initial certification and two specialized certifications.

Current observers who do not meet specialized training eligibility may be considered for an initial training opportunity. These candidates must meet several criteria in order to attend this initial certification. In order to be considered for any additional cross training:

● The observer must meet the minimum eligibility standards for the initial training being offered.

● The observer must have a minimum of five trips and twenty (20) sea days (not including any certification trips).

● The observer must not have failed to achieve certification in a previous program.

○ This applies specifically to observers who pass training, but fail to perform to the program's standards on vessels.

● The observer must be in good Data Quality standing with FMRD, see section IV. Additional requirements can be found under the Specialized Trainings section.

A formal request can be made to FMRD to waive a standard on a case-by-case basis. Requests to waive training requirements should be sent via email to the Training Program Manager.

After training:

● The observer may not take other types of certification trips during the process for the new, initial certification. This will allow the observer to focus on one certification at a time, minimizing confusion over protocols.

● Day trips are recommended for the new certification trips, as this will enable quick feedback and support.

● Once the new certification is achieved, the observer will be required to pre-brief in the original certification.

2 If the observer does not cover a particular gear type during their certification trips, they have up to 1 year from their training date to successfully observe that gear type, otherwise they must attend an approved refresher training or debriefing for the additional gear type(s).

Northeast Fisheries Science Center Fishery Monitoring and Research Division ∙ Training Certifications

II. Initial Training Classes There are currently two types of initial training classes. Observers may attend a Base training session followed immediately by a Track session for the: Northeast Fisheries Observer Program (NEFOP), Industry Funded Scallop program (IFS), or High Volume Fisheries (HVF) Industry Funded Monitor (IFM)3.

Alternatively, they may attend a standalone session for the groundfish At-Sea Monitoring program (ASM) and the Electronic Monitoring program (EM). The EM Groundfish (GF) Base training session is followed by a Track(s) session for the Audit model and/or Maximized Retention Electronic Monitoring (MREM)4 model. Special requirements for initial trainings are listed below, by program:

● All At-sea Programs o Trainees may not deploy on the same vessel more than twice during the certification period without prior approval.

● ASM

o Gear types: gillnet, single trawl, twin trawl, longline, handline o No more than one certification trip on a Maximized Retention Electronic Monitoring program vessel may count as a certification trip

● HVF IFM

o Gear types: bottom trawl, single midwater trawl, paired midwater trawl, purse seine

● IFS

o Gear types: scallop dredge, scallop trawl o Must demonstrate ability to take age structures

● NEFOP

o Gear types: gillnet, single trawl, twin trawl o First trip must be with a certified trip trainer o No more than one limited gillnet trip may count as a certification trip o Must demonstrate ability to take age structures

● EM

o Gear types: gillnet, single trawl, twin trawl, longline, handline

III. Specialized Trainings: Additional and Cross Trainings Certified observers may attend additional trainings, depending on their current certification. In order to be considered for an additional training, the observer must:

● Be certified in their current FMRD observer program;

● Complete a minimum of five (5) trips (not including any certification trips);

● Complete a minimum of twenty (20) sea days (not including any certification trips);

● Have a minimum of 85% compliance with the Species Verification Program for the current or most recent quarter observed;

● Be in good standing with FMRD (e.g., not on priority or probation; no recurrent data or protocol issues); and

● Maintain all FMRD Training and Program Standards.

An observer who has successfully completed a previous Base + Track session may attend a future Track session to train in the HVF IFM3, IFS, and/or NEFOP programs. An observer who currently holds a NEFOP or IFS certification may cross train into the ASM program. An observer holding a NEFOP, IFS, or HVF IFM 3 certification may cross train into the HVF IFM Portside program. See the table above for the number

3 This includes both the government-funded NEFOP component and the Industry Funded Monitoring (IFM) component. Note: 04/2023 No longer offered under IFM, to be determined if it continues in the future.

4 Note: 05/2024 MREM suspended as one of the components of the groundfish sector monitoring program, to be determined if it continues in the future.

Northeast Fisheries Science Center Fishery Monitoring and Research Division ∙ Training Certifications of certification trips needed for each combination. Gear types and other restrictions will follow the initial training lists above.

For NEFOP Specialized training opportunities, an observer may only attempt two specialized certifications in the same training session. This affords for certification timelines to be met, expected data quality and retention of said data, and an appropriate depth of understanding by the observer. Observers may continue to deploy in programs in which they are already certified while waiting for new certification trips to be reviewed and approved.

An observer holding a NEFOP certification and meets the above Specialized Training eligibility may attend the following specialized trainings (gear types listed if multiple within a single training). Each gear type requires a single certification trip.

● Hook and Line o Gear types: longline, handline, auto-jig, troll

● Pot/Trap Fisheries o Gear types: crab pot, lobster pot, conch pot, fish pot, hagfish pot

● Clam/Quahog Dredge

● High Volume Fisheries o Gear types: bottom trawl, midwater trawl, purse seine, pair trawl.

IV. Recertification Training

Recertification training is an annual requirement to maintain certification. Observer(s) already qualified or previously assessed as competent in training must attend a recertification training within one year of receiving their initial certification and each year thereafter. The intent of the recertification training is to update skills and/or knowledge to a changed standard and/or to ensure that key, hands-on skill sets and the knowledge base has been retained in the field.

The following table outlines the key evaluation components that each certification training course maintains for recertification, based on the FMRD Training Standards. Dashes indicate items that are not applicable or are not currently offered.

Recertification Training

Certification

Training Length

& Location

Key Recertification Evaluation Components

Gear Certification (Scales, Calipers;

Safety Gear; IT

Devices)

Safety Exam

Fish ID Exam

Incidental Take Exam

Final Exam

ASM: Recert I 3 Days; On-site Y N Y N Y

ASM: Recert II 1 Day; On-site Y N Y N Y

IFS NA - - - - -

NEFOP 3 Days; On-site Y N Y Y Y

Northeast Fisheries Science Center Fishery Monitoring and Research Division ∙ Training Certifications

EM (Tracks: Audit

& MREM4)

1-2 Days; Virtual N N N N Y

1. At-sea Monitor (ASM) Recertification II Training

2. Eligibility

An ASM recertification program option for current, certified ASM observers who have been recertified at least once before in the ASM recertification program. This program is designed to provide qualified ASM observers an opportunity to recertify via a one-day training in lieu of the current, three-day ASM Recertification training. ASM Recertification II runs as a one-day, stand-alone training that will be scheduled as needed for qualified candidates and prior to an ASM Recertification I training. During the training, candidates will be evaluated with examinations based on comparable materials found within the current ASM Recertification I Training Program.

1. Qualified Candidates

Individuals considered for the ASM Recertification II must meet the following criteria 30-days prior to the start of a scheduled training:

1. Prior successful completion of at least one, three-day ASM Recertification Training

2. Currently not on an absence (Leave of Absence included)

3. Actively working in the capacity of a NEFOP or ASM observer taking groundfish trips for a total of 20 groundfish sea days over the six (6) months prior to the ASM Recertification II training (see additional information below)

4. Have good data quality and be in good standing per FMRD TDQ staff

5. Achieved an average 85% compliance for the Species Verification Program in two consecutive, complete quarters prior to the ASM Recertification II training

V. Maintaining FMRD Program Certifications In order to maintain certification as an observer in any FMRD program, the observer must:

1. Maintain all FMRD Training and Program Standards;

2. Not have any physical/health condition limiting their ability to perform required duties:

i. Observer on at least one trip within a 12-month period in that program;

ii. If it has been more than 12 months since an observer covered a trip on a particular gear type, the observer may not observe that gear type until they have: 1) attended an approved recertification course, 2) attended an approved debriefing, or 3) been given approval by FMRD.

The next trip on that gear type must be debriefed and approved by TDQ prior to deploying on that gear type again.

iii. If an observer attends and passes a recertification training within 2 months of their gear type certification expiring, they will be allowed to take a certification trip to become recertified in that gear type. This certification trip must be taken within 2 months of the end of the recertification course.

3. Attend any required recertification training for that program.

i. FMRD may approve a grace period for obtaining a recertification due to the lapse of an observer’s certification after 12 months. The service provider must notify FMRD staff prior to the lapse of an observer’s certification. In the event that the observer is unable to attend recertification training during this grace period, the observer may be required to attend a Track or Cross training for that program. A formal request for the observer to attend a training must

Northeast Fisheries Science Center Fishery Monitoring and Research Division ∙ Training Certifications be submitted to and approved by FMRD. The request must include the reason(s) why the observer was unable to attend the offered recertification training.

ii. Recertification is dependent upon successfully completing training and meeting data quality requirements. In the event that an observer fails to pass a recertification, FMRD will decide whether or not they will be allowed to attend a future recertification. If an additional recertification is approved, they will be put on priority status until the next offered recertification training (terms of priority status to be determined by course performance). If the additional recertification is not approved, their certification for that program will be revoked.

Depending on their overall performance, any other certifications they hold may also be affected.

VI. Safety Certification During initial training observers are required to meet the FMRD Physical Standards and successfully complete a two-day safety training course ("Safety I"). This includes hands-on practical stations, a pool session, and a safety exam.

In order to maintain their safety certification, observers are required to complete a safety refresher training course every 18 months. The Safety Lead and FMO Program Lead can approve an observer to have a six month grace period, if lapsed past this date. In the event the observer is unable to attend a safety training by the two year anniversary of their last safety training, they will no longer be able to deploy on trips until they complete a safety refresher training.

The advanced safety refresher training (“Safety II”) is a two-day source which includes pool and/or open water sessions. Observers may attend a Safety I training to fulfill the refresher requirement, if space is available.

After successfully completing at least one initial and two safety refresher trainings, observers may be eligible to attend a one-day advanced safety refresher training course (“Safety III”) which includes an open water session. In order to meet all national standards, observers may not attend consecutive Safety III trainings to fulfill their safety refresher requirements.

SECTION J

Attachment 6

FISHERIES MONITORING AND RESEARCH DIVISION

NORTHEAST FISHERIES OBSERVER PROGRAM, INDUSTRY FUNDED SCALLOP OBSERVER PROGRAM, AND AT- SEA

MONITORING PROGRAM

FMRD OBSERVER TRAINING AND PROGRAM STANDARDS

The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) Northeast Fisheries Science Center (NEFSC) Fisheries Sampling Branch (FSB) collects, maintains, and distributes data for scientific and management purposes in the Northwest Atlantic. FSB manages three separate but related observer programs: the Northeast Fisheries Observer Program (NEFOP), the Industry Funded Scallop (IFS) Observer Program, and the At-Sea Monitoring (ASM) Program. Here “observer” refers to any observer or monitor working for FSB.

This document outlines the training and program standards for all three FSB observer programs. Trainees are required to maintain the outlined FSB Training and Program Standards including current and future training sessions, and for the entirety of their FSB observer career.

TRAINING STANDARDS

Training Standards must be met and maintained during all training sessions, lectures, workshops and activities.

Attendance and Conduct

1. Attend all training classes, activities and be on time for all sessions

2. Participate in discussions and exercises

3. Be alert during training sessions

4. Complete all homework and readings as assigned

5. Communicate with trainers, staff, classmates, and guest speakers in a respectful and professional manner

6. Do not take part in any illegal activities

7. Do not attend any part of training sessions under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Excessive alcohol use after training hours may violate standards of conduct outlined in this document

8. Follow all rules established by the training program

Northeast Fisheries Science Center Fisheries Sampling Branch ∙ Training and Program Standards

9. Wear a seatbelt whenever a passenger in a government or driver in a personal vehicle while attending training

10. Submit a signed copy of these TRAINING AND PROGRAM STANDARDS the first day of training

Performance

To successfully pass any FSB training program the trainee must1:

1. Receive an overall grade of at least 85%. Grading will be calculated using the following breakdown:

NEFOP

(Core)

NEFOP &

ASM

Specialized

ASM

(Core)

ASM

Recertificati on

ASM

Recertificati on

II

IFS

(Core)

IFS

Specialize d Safety II

Fish ID Exams:

Open Book and Closed Book Practical

30% NA 30% 30% 30% 30% NA NA

Incidental Take ID Exam 15% NA 15%

55% 65%

15% NA NA

Course Exam(s) Exam 1: 15%

90% 30% 30% 90% NA

Exam 2: 15%

Safety Written Exam 10% NA 10% NA NA 10% NA 95% Homework and Quizzes 10% 5% 10% 10% NA 10% 5% NA Performance, Attitude, and Participation 5% 5% 5% 5% 5% 5% 5% 5%

2. Receive an individual minimum score on the following exams:

● Incidental Take ID Exam: >85%

● Safety Exam & Practical o Part 1: Safety Written Exam: >85% o Part 2: Safety Practical: Pass

● Fish ID Exam:

o Open Book Practical: >80% o Closed Book Practical: >80% o Combined Open Book & Closed Book Average: >85%

3. Turn in all homework completed and on time

● 50% deduction on late assignments

● NO credit given on assignments turned in > 24 hours late, but are still required to be turned in

4. Successfully complete all training sessions and workshops

5. Possess current CPR and First Aid certification obtained prior to the start of training

6. Successfully complete the certification training trips as outlined in the FSB Observer Program Certifications. If the data quality on these trips is considered acceptable the observer candidate will become certified. If the data quality is not considered acceptable the observer candidate will not be certified by FSB

1 A remediation plan may be approved by the Branch Chief on a case by case basis, if there are unusual circumstances affecting the testing environment.

09/03/2015

Training Standards not met and/or maintained is grounds for removal from any or all FSB observer certification programs.

I, ____________________________ (Print Full Name), have fully read and understand the Training

Standards required of an observer.

Signature Date

PROGRAM STANDARDS

PHYSICAL STANDARDS

Physical standards must be met and maintained for all FBS training, including current and future training sessions, and for the entirety of their FSB observer career.

Physical Standards

All observer candidates must be certified by a licensed physician to be physically fit to work as an observer on domestic commercial fishing vessels. The physician must understand the observers’ job and working conditions. Physical considerations include, but are not limited to:

1. Ability to swim 100 meters (tested during safety training)

2. Ability to swim 25 meters in an immersion suit (tested during safety training)

3. Ability to tread water for three minutes (tested during safety training)

4. Ability to don an immersion suit in 60 seconds or less (tested during safety training)

5. Ability to perform various water survival skills i.e. boarding life raft, cold water skills, etc. (tested during safety training)

6. Ability to climb a ladder

7. Ability to properly lift and carry 50 pounds

8. Ability to manage chronic motion sickness

9. Ability to live in confined quarters

A licensed physician must certify within 12 months prior to the end of the FSB observer’s initial training program that the applicant is physically capable of serving as an observer. Documentation must be provided to the program 14 calendar days prior to the observer applicants’ training start date. Any physical condition that could limit an observer's duties while at sea or ashore may be grounds for a failed medical certification. Though not limited to, some examples are: asthma, heart conditions, current pregnancy, diabetes, joint conditions, previous injuries that may affect work performance, inner ear injuries, head injuries, etc.

Disclosure of Existing Medical Conditions: Please list any changes in your health since physician clearance.

If there are any medical conditions that may affect your ability to perform your duties as an observer trainee, please inform the training lead immediately and list them in the provided space below.

Conditions may include, but are not limited to: asthma, heart conditions, current pregnancy, diabetes, joint conditions, previous injuries that may affect work performance (e.g. inner ear injuries, head injuries, back injuries, etc).

List any medical conditions below or record ‘NONE’

Physical Standards not met and/or maintained are grounds for removal from any or all FSB observer certification programs.

I, ____________________________ (Print Full Name), have fully read and understand the Physical

Standards for an observer.

Signature Date

SAFETY TRAINING ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF RISK

I, ___________________________________(Print Full Name), recognize the activity in which I desire to participate involves risk of injury, which may include but are not limited to: striking objects when entering the water, cardiac arrest, ventricular fibrillation, inadvertent gasping and inhalation of water, sudden drowning syndrome or drowning from other causes, hypothermia, falls from walking on slippery surfaces, and other injuries which may occur due to the use of safety and survival equipment such as distress flares, liferafts, personal floatation devices, dewatering pumps, fire extinguishers, etc.

Signature Date

STANDARDS of CONDUCT

Observers work in a self-supervised capacity and must maintain high standards of conduct. Observers are required to follow the outlined Standards of Conduct at all times. Standards of Conduct must be met and maintained for all FSB training, including current and future training sessions, and for the entirety of their FSB observer career.

Observers:

1. Must maintain a professional, respectful, and objective demeanor at all times

2. Must be able to work independently, while following technical instructions

3. Must be able to get along well with others

4. Must be able to collect and record data in an unbiased manner

5. Must not have ever been decertified as an observer, due to problems with data quality or standards of conduct, from any observer program. Observer’s references of previous employment shall be verified by the observer provider, as a qualifying requirement

6. Must not provide false statements to the government. Any observer or observer candidate involved in falsification of data or false statements shall be removed from all FSB programs

Falsification of Data is defined as: The act of deliberately or knowingly fabricating data collected during observed fishing trips, this includes intentional recording of inaccurate data, intentional omission or deletion of data, intentional plagiarism, or, in general, the selective alteration of data

7. While employed as an observer, maintain professional relations with fishing industry members. Personal relationships with fishing industry members may lead to behaviors which violate the Standards of Conduct

8. Must wear appropriate work and field attire during all trainings and while working in the capacity as an FSB observer

9. Must demonstrate respect and the ability to follow confidentiality policies

10. Must not solicit or accept, directly or indirectly, any gratuity, gift, favor, entertainment, loan, or anything of monetary value from anyone who conducts fishing or fishing related activities that are regulated by NMFS, or who has interests that may be substantially affected by the performance or nonperformance of the official duties of an observer

11. Must not engage in any use or distribution of illegal substances

12. Must not consume alcohol during training, debriefings, or up to six hours prior to deployment when working in the capacity as an observer

13. May be subject to random drug testing by their employer or by the US Coast Guard as a result of an investigation. Observers should not volunteer or agree to submit to a drug test at the request of a fishing vessel owner or operator.

14. Must complete their own trip paperwork and submit associated electronic data to NMFS within the appropriate timeframe

15. Shall arrive 1 hour prior to the scheduled departure time (reference Late Observer Policy)

16. Shall not sleep overnight onboard a vessel at dock nor be onboard alone without a vessel representative

17. May only sign authorized NMFS documents while employed as an FSB observer

18. May not work, collect data, or take samples for any program not approved by NMFS while working in the capacity as an FSB observer

19. Must submit all data and samples collected with the correct trip number to FSB within the appropriate time frame

20. Sign and adhere to the Training Standards

21. Sign and adhere to the Physical Standards and Acknowledgement of Risk

22. Sign and adhere to the Standards of Conduct (this document)

23. Sign and adhere to the Statement of Non-Conflict of Interest

24. Sign and adhere to the Statement of No Fisheries Related Convictions

25. Sign and adhere to NMFS FSB Confidentiality Agreement (provided during training)

Standards of Conduct not met and/or maintained are grounds for removal from any or all FSB observer certification programs.

I, ____________________________ (Print Full Name), have fully read and understand the Standards of

Conduct for an observer.

Signature Date

STATEMENT OF NON-CONFLICT OF INTEREST

I, the undersigned, of this document, declare under penalty of perjury, under the laws of the United States of America that all statements contained in this document are true and correct, with full knowledge that all statements made in this document are subject to investigation. Any false or dishonest answer to any question may be grounds for denial or termination by FSB of an observer candidate and/or decertification as an FSB observer. The signer of this document is free from a conflict of interest1 as described in the following paragraph:

An observer:

(i) Must not have a direct2 or indirect interest (financial or otherwise) in the fishery the observer is covering, managed under Federal regulations, including, but not limited to:

a. any ownership, mortgage holder, or other secured interest in a vessel or processor involved in the catching, taking, harvesting or processing catch

b. any business selling supplies or services to any vessel or processor in the fishery the observer is covering

c. any business purchasing raw or processed products from any vessel or processor in the fishery the observer is covering

d. any groundfish sector or sector manager

e. advocacy groups

f. research institutions

g. consultant groups

(ii) Must not have any close family members including but not limited to spouse, parent, child, or siblings or other members of their household with a direct or indirect interest in the fishery the observer is covering, as defined above (a-g)

(iii) May not serve as an observer on any vessel or at any shore-side facility owned or operated by a person who previously employed the observer

(iv) May not solicit or accept employment as a crew member or an employee of a vessel or shore-side facility in a commercial fishery while assigned as an observer to any vessel or shore-side owned by the assigned vessel’s owner

1 Conflict of Interest: participation in activities or relationships with other persons, resulting in the impairment or possible impairment of a person’s objectivity in performing the contract work.

2 Direct Financial Interest: any source of income to, or capital investment or other interest held by, an individual, partnership, or corporation or an individual’s spouse, immediate family member or parent that could be influenced by performance or nonperformance of observer or observer provider duties.

(v) Must perform one’s duties as an observer without regard to any preference by representatives of fishing vessels

(vi) Must not solicit or accept, directly or indirectly, any gratuity, gift, favor, entertainment, loan, or anything of monetary value from anyone who conducts fishing or fishing related activities regulated by NMFS, or who has interests that may be substantially affected by the performance or nonperformance of the official duties of an observer

(vii) Must not, in any way, misuse his/her position, including, but not limited to improper use or disclosure of information, aiding in a known violation, falsification of data, or failure to report complete and accurate data

I __________________________________________________, hereby claim, to the best of my Enter Full Name knowledge, to be free from any conflict of interest, with regards to becoming a FSB observer.

Statement of Non-Conflict of Interest not met and/or maintained are grounds for removal from any or all

FSB observer certification programs.

I, ____________________________ (Print Full Name), have fully read and understand the Statement of Non -Conflict of Interest for an observer.

Signature Date

Northeast Fishery Observer Program (2012). Contract: Section H.2 Conflict of Interest, NOAA, NMFS, NEFSC, FSB Solicitation Number:

Bridge Contract: EA-133F-12-RP-0058 IDIQ Contract: EA133F-11-RP-0153

Northeast Fisheries At-sea Monitor Program (2012). Contract: Section H.2 Conflict of Interest, NOAA, NMFS, NEFSC, FSB

Solicitation Numbers:

MRAG, Americas: EA133F10CQ0015 AIS, Inc.: EA133F10CQ0011 East West Technical Services: EA133FCQ0012

Department of Commerce NOAA 50 CFR Part 648 (2007). Northeast Federal Registry Volume 72, No. 113 Fisheries of Northeastern United States; Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery; Amendment 13

STATEMENT OF NO FISHERIES RELATED CONVICTIONS

I hereby attest that I, ______________________________________________ have not pleaded Enter Full Name guilty, or have been found guilty of any fisheries related offense against NOAA law, have not forfeited bond or collateral, and do not have any criminal charges pending for any commercial fisheries related violation of state or federal law or regulation.

Print Full Name Signature Date

Attachment 7

NOAA FISHERIES OBSERVER ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

NOAA Fisheries Eligibility Standards:

Introduction/Background The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) National Marine Fisheries Service (NOAA Fisheries) at-sea monitor programs deploy at-sea monitors to collect data required for fishery conservation and management. As at-sea monitor data are a critical and essential tool used in key management decisions, at-sea monitors must meet minimum standards to help ensure professionalism, prevent conflict of interests and promote agency credibility.

National Minimum Eligibility Standards for Marine Fisheries At-sea monitors

Education/Experience Unless the Regional Administrator or Science Director has waived this requirement, at-sea monitor candidates must have: 1) a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a major in one of the natural sciences and a minimum of 30 semester hours or equivalent in the biological sciences, 2) at least one undergraduate course in math or statistics; and 3) experience with data entry on computers. All relevant course work must been performed at a level acceptable for credit at the candidate’s academic institution.

Regional Administrators and Science Directors may waive the education and experience requirements of this section if an at-sea monitor candidate has acquired the required skills to be considered eligible for at-sea monitor training through an authorized alternative training program. The alternate training program must include activities and functions including, but not limited to:

a) participating in ocean fishing activities;

b) observing ocean fishing activities;

c) participating in fisheries research cruises;

d) recording data on marine mammal sightings and fishing activities;

e) tallying incidental take of marine mammals, sea turtles, and sea birds from fishing platforms;

f) collecting biological samples and specimens from postmortem animals;

g) entering data into a database using computers; or completion of a biological training program, equivalent to that received as part of a bachelor’s degree, conducted by or approved by NMFS with the specific objective of preparing potential candidates for at-sea monitor training.

Attachment 8

OBSID / TRIPID

Submission Date

Observer Name

Observer Phone #

Home Address

Email Address

Position

Provider

Incident Date

Incident Type 1

Incident Type 2

Incident Type 3

Port

Location

Vessel Name

Hull Number

Permit #

Sector

VTR Serial #

Names of Persons Involved

Signature

I declare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct. By signing this document, you acknowledge and recognize that this acts as your digital signature.

DESCRIPTION OF INCIDENT

Attachment 9

Port Orientation Program

Northeast Fisheries Observer Program

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration National Marine Fisheries Service

Northeast Fisheries Observer Program Northeast Fisheries Science Center

166 Water Street Woods Hole, MA 02543

Statement of Need Northeast Fisheries Observer Program (NEFOP) observers are deployed on vessels fishing out of a variety of ports along the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic coast. Vessels deploy from the docks at all hours of the day and from dozens of locations within a single port. To ensure successful trips, timely planning, and safe deployments, it is imperative that new observers are familiar with the layout of the major ports and dealer facilities before they begin their employment as an observer. Port orientations will be led by the Contractor’s key personnel and may include support from an industry representative familiar with a specific port.

FMRD staff may participate in port orientations if deemed necessary or upon request by the Contractor. Port orientations are an extension and requirement of NEFOP training and will better prepare observers for safe, on-time, and successful deployments. Port orientations may include hands-on portside sampling training, on the docks or at a fish house or dealer facility, if applicable and will be coordinated by FMRD staff.

Facilitators and Logistics The orientations will take place in the major ports of New England and the Mid-Atlantic and shall occur following the completion of NEFOP training prior to the observer’s first trip. Tours of the GARFO office or NEFSC offices are not suitable alternatives, as the objective is to visit and become familiar with dockside and dealer operations, vessel locations, safety at the dock, parking and general port logistics. A time and meeting location will be determined by the Contractor and communicated to the trainees and FMO during training. The Contractor shall organize transportation as needed (carpooling, independent driving). During NEFOP specialized training, other major ports could also be visited for orientations; these visits are coordinated by FMRD staff. Observers attending the orientation should plan on wearing clothes suitable for the day outdoors:

comfortable shoes (no sandals or open-toed shoes), a hat, sunscreen, pants, etc.

Orientation Objectives The main objective for the port orientation program is to familiarize new observers with general operational logistics of regional primary fishing ports. The following topics shall be covered: common fishing vessel locations, how vessels tie-up, hazards in crossing over vessels to board, where vessels offload catch, dealer operations and facilities, biological port sampling logistics, and how to best communicate with captains and crew. Many of these docks, piers, and fish houses have common names that are known within the fishing community and knowledge of local lingo will help to avoid confusion when setting up trips. New observers will also be introduced to captains and crew encountered at the port.

Facilitators will point out potential hazards associated with each location and any fishing vessel hazards that can be…