NMFS determined that the trawler gear used on the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) research vessel Albatross IV - gear used to conduct the last eight fall/spring stock abundance surveys- was calibrated incorrectly since February of 2000.
"When fishermen's livelihoods depend on the quality of survey data, we owe it to them to get the data collection right," said Senator Susan Collins. "There is no room for second-rate science.
"Although NMFS has not yet determined the extent of the damage on the data results, there is no question that the error's effect on public confidence is serious and extensive. Excessively restrictive regulation and the effects of the groundfish litigation have inflicted severe suffering on fishermen in New England. Fishermen are now questioning the ability of the NMFS to provide the ‘best available science' needed to properly manage the fisheries. They wonder why they are suffering under harsh restrictions if the data may not support the need for those restrictions."
NMFS is conducting a full review and assessment of the survey data to determine the extent of the damage. "This is a difficult task, but it is one that must be completed swiftly in order to restore the confidence of New England fishermen in the federal fisheries management system," said Senator Collins.