Study Fleet Data Collection and Reporting Services for Cooperative Research, Northeast Fisheries Science Center

This is a requirement for vessel support for Northeast Cooperative Research Branch Study Fleet activities in Northeast and Mid-Atlantic Fisheries.  The current research topics relate to enhanced stock monitoring through the use of electronic reporting technology and testing, tracking the use of more selective fishing gears and practices, linking oceanographic and socioeconomic factors to fishery models, and real-time data transmission.  Supported Study Fleet research projects for this contract will require participation by Northeast and Mid-Atlantic commercial vessels fishing participating in ground fish, herring, squid, mackerel and other fisheries.  The Contractor shall assist in collecting and reporting tow-by-tow data through an electronic logbook system.  This will be accomplished through use of the NEFSC Fisheries Logbook Data Recording Software (FLDRS).  The Contractor will also support the use and development of oceanographic data collection systems consistent with the vessel’s normal fishing practices, real-time data transmission systems, and the testing of new hardware, software, and data collection protocols.  Work shall be on a schedule consistent with the vessel’s fishing practices.